File Information
| Name | Flow Launcher – Open Source File Search & App Launcher |
|---|---|
| Version | Latest stable release |
| File Size | Windows: ~92.4MB (.exe, standalone) |
| Platforms | Windows 10 and above |
| License | Open Source (MIT) |
| Official Repository | GitHub / official site |
| Official Site | flowlauncher |
Table of contents
Description
Flow Launcher is a lightweight, fast, and highly customizable open source application launcher for Windows designed to make your workflow more seamless. With Flow Launcher, you can search everything from applications, files, bookmarks, browser history, YouTube, Twitter, and more in one unified interface.
Built with the community at heart, Flow Launcher is open, flexible, and continually evolving. Its plugin system allows developers to extend its capabilities endlessly, while users enjoy faster access to their most used tools and resources. Whether you are a developer, power user, or casual Windows user, Flow Launcher enhances productivity and streamlines everyday tasks.
Screenshots
Features of Flow-Launcher
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Applications & Files | Search for apps, files, or file contents. Supports Everything and Windows Index, and environment variable paths. |
| Web Searches & URLs | Quick access to web searches or open websites directly from the launcher. |
| Browser Bookmarks | Search & open browser bookmarks instantly. |
| System Commands | Execute system commands like shutdown, lock, sleep, hibernate, or open settings quickly. |
| Calculator | Perform calculations directly in the search bar and copy results to clipboard. |
| Shell Commands | Run batch & PowerShell scripts as admin or another user. |
| Explorer Shortcuts | Save frequently used file/folder locations for rapid access. |
| Windows & Control Panel Settings | Access system settings without navigating multiple menus. |
| Dialog Jump | Jump to a file/folder path in Open/Save As dialogs using Alt+G. |
| Drag & Drop | Drag files or folders to apps like File Explorer or Discord. Ctrl & Shift modify copy/move behavior. |
| Priority Control | Customize plugin result order for better workflow efficiency. |
| Preview Panel | Toggle F1 to preview media files or icons, adjust size with Ctrl++/- or Ctrl+[/]. |
| Customizations | Adjust window size, animations, colors, themes, and sounds. |
| Date & Time Display | Show current date & time directly in search window. |
| Multi Language Support | Supports multiple languages including Chinese, Italian, and Pinyin search. |
| Portable Version | Fully portable with user settings stored in a dedicated folder. |
| Game Mode | Pause hotkeys while gaming. Toggle with Ctrl+F12. |
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Specification | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 or newer | Windows 10 / 11 |
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster | 2 GHz or faster dual-core |
| RAM | 2 GB | 4 GB or more |
| Storage | 100 MB free disk space | 200 MB free disk space |
| Display | 1024 x 768 resolution | 1920 x 1080 or higher |
| Additional Requirements | .NET Framework 4.7.2 or later | Internet connection for plugin downloads & updates |
Plugins Supported
Flow Launcher supports a wide range of plugins created by the community. Popular plugins include:
- SpotifyPremium
- Steam Search
- Clipboard History
- Home Assistant Commander
- Colors
- GitHub
- Window Walker
Plugins can be installed or updated directly via the Plugin Store in Settings, or through commands in the search window using pm install/uninstall/update + plugin name.
Hotkeys
| Hotkey | Description |
|---|---|
| Alt+Space | Open search window (default) |
| Enter | Execute |
| Ctrl+Enter | Open containing folder |
| Ctrl+Shift+Enter | Run as administrator |
| ↑/↓ | Navigate results |
| F1 | Toggle preview panel |
| Esc | Hide search window |
| Ctrl+C | Copy folder/file |
| Ctrl+Shift+C | Copy folder/file path |
| Ctrl+I | Open Flow settings |
| Ctrl+R | Refresh query |
| F5 | Reload all plugin data |
| Ctrl+F12 | Toggle Game Mode |
| Ctrl++/- | Adjust results shown |
| Ctrl+[,] | Adjust search window width |
| Ctrl+H | Open search history |
Flow Launcher also supports system commands, hotkeys for navigation, and user-defined actions for quick productivity.
How to Install Flow-Launcher??
Download the software from the download section below and follow the steps below to install it
- Double Click the setup .exe file
- Install the application
- Use the shortcut key Alt + Space to launch the search window
- Enjoy Fast Search!
Download Flow Launcher Fast File Search & App Launcher Latest For Windows
Tips for Maximum Productivity
- Use
Alt+Spaceto open the launcher instantly. - Toggle preview panel with F1 for quick access to file information.
- Adjust window size, width, & result count to fit your workflow.
- Use Game Mode (Ctrl+F12) to pause hotkeys during gaming sessions.
- Explore the Plugin Store to extend functionality and integrate with apps you use daily.
- Remember to star the project on GitHub to support its community-driven development.
Support Flow Launcher Project
If you like this project and the work of open source community then do support the work of Flow launcher team
Conclusion
Flow Launcher is more than a simple app launcher, it is a productivity powerhouse for Windows users. Its fast file search, deep plugin support, customizable hotkeys, preview panel, and system integration make navigating applications, files, web searches, and system commands effortless. Portable, installer-ready, or deployable via Winget, Scoop, or Chocolatey, Flow Launcher fits seamlessly into any workflow.
For users seeking a lightweight, open source, and community-driven tool to enhance productivity, Flow Launcher stands out as a must-have application for Windows. Engage with the community, explore plugins, and take control of your workflow like never before.
