Choose LaunchBar if you want
Mac users who want clipboard history inside the launcher.
A Mac launcher with a single keyboard shortcut, web searches, clipboard history and a snippet manager. It is free to use after its 30-day trial, though break reminders appear during free use.
Choose Raycast if you want
Mac and Windows users who want extensions and a free plan.
The most capable launcher here for people on both Mac and Windows, with an extension store and a free plan for personal and organizational use. AI and cloud sync sit behind the Pro plan.
The main differences
- Only Raycast runs on Windows.
- LaunchBar is free; Raycast is free plan, paid upgrades.
Side by side
 LaunchBar |  Raycast | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 85.0 | 92.0 |
| Rank in list | #4 of 7 | #1 of 7 |
| Price | FreeFree to use after the trial, with break reminders; Buy option | Free plan, paid upgradesFree for personal use; Pro adds AI, cloud sync and themes |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | macOSmacOS | macOSWindowsmacOS, Windows |
| Made by | Not stated | Not stated |
| Best for | Mac users who want clipboard history inside the launcher | Mac and Windows users who want extensions and a free plan |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about LaunchBar vs Raycast
- Is Raycast better than LaunchBar?
- Raycast ranks higher in our list of app launchers (#1 against #4, score 92.0 against 85.0). LaunchBar is best for: mac users who want clipboard history inside the launcher. Raycast is best for: mac and Windows users who want extensions and a free plan.
- Which is cheaper, LaunchBar or Raycast?
- LaunchBar: Free to use after the trial, with break reminders; Buy option. Raycast: Free for personal use; Pro adds AI, cloud sync and themes.
- Do LaunchBar and Raycast run on the same platforms?
- LaunchBar supports macOS. Raycast supports macOS, Windows.