Install best launcher for Android is a way to make your smartphone or tablet faster, more functional, more stable and more beautiful. Most smartphones from well-known manufacturers have pre-installed shells, but their attractiveness is questionable due to their template nature. At the same time, using pure Android is also inconvenient due to limited functions. The company store has a wide variety of launchers with a wide range of functions and the ability to personalize.
Nova Launcher
Launchers for Android 2017 are topped by Nova due to optimization and the presence of all the necessary functions that are missing in a pure system.
The shell is unique due to a number of features:
- High degree of optimization for fast operation.
- the ability to fully control the appearance of all elements on the desktop.
- change between vertical and horizontal orientation in the application directory.
- the presence of beautiful animated pictures of user actions.
- built-in night mode.
- backup and restore functions.
- ability to import popular themes.
The application has free and paid modes. The standard version contains all the necessary tools, and the premium mode allows you to control your smartphone using special gestures and provides the ability to hide system programs.
GO EX Launcher
According to 5 million users, GO EX is the best launcher for Android 2017. It has been occupying a leading position for several years now. The peculiarity lies in the wide range of applications that go beyond the standard understanding of the word “shell”. They not only complement the system, but replace system pre-installed programs.
For some users, there is an impression of being overloaded with various functions, and due to the reluctance to understand, questions may arise. The developers have also provided a relatively simple desktop model, which excludes the presence of various widgets. The presence of themes can transform the shell to an unrecognizable appearance. The changes even apply to system applications.
The shell offers to install and use smart gestures and widgets for faster and better use of your smartphone. You can set wallpaper in HD. Fashionable design and freedom of action make the launcher popular.
Yahoo Aviate
In the category of the best launchers for Android in Russian, Yahoo Aviate will definitely find its place. Previously, the development of the launcher was carried out by a little-known and small startup. The launcher was distributed via access keys. Over time, Yahoo bought the program, transformed it into its own style and made it publicly available. The concept is to compile and customize a list of programs to suit individual needs.
The program is based on variable data: time of day, statistics, locations, etc. to compile a list of applications that a person needs most. Ideal processing has not yet been achieved, but in most cases the determination is correct.
For example, at home, entertainment is displayed, an alarm clock and notes are displayed at night, and mail is displayed during working hours. Many settings for proper display will help the program understand what you need now.
In addition to the main characteristics, special widgets, personalization methods, settings, etc. are built in here.
Buzz
Free launchers for Android in Russian are about Buzz. The emphasis in the shell is on customization and the ability to create your own style in all areas of work. There are no add-ons for applications or specific programs for advanced users in the shell. Everything is done with the beauty and creativity of the device in mind. Installation of widgets and related elements occurs in one click.
The program has many opportunities for using the developments of other users and making your own designs.
Google Start
Previously, the company was not represented in the field of launchers and was undeservedly losing its position; over time, Google entered this niche and began distributing its own software. There is nothing surprising here for users; the services in the set are quite standard by Google standards, the majority belong to this company. Here you can find Mail, YouTube, Hangouts, Maps app, Office, etc.
Everything is done quite simply, without frills. For the average user, the functionality is fully sufficient, and there is no need to think about more. For users with a desire for excess or demanding consumers, the program is not functional enough.
Most applications are already present in stock or proprietary shells of manufacturers. Minimal changes provide better productivity and free up work space.
There are dozens of launchers in total on Google Play and many of them are unique in their own way. We looked at several of the best representatives from different areas and for different user requirements.
If you have any questions on the topic “Review of the 5 best launchers for Android,” you can ask them in the comments
In this article, we have selected 5 of the most interesting launchers that you can use to replace your stock one, in case you are tired of it or for some reason are not satisfied with it.
Nova Launcher
The first launcher I recommend is Nova Launcher, in my opinion the most functional and innovative, as well as the most customizable. List of features available in the free version of Nova Launcher:
- Themes for icons. In the Play Market, if you are not satisfied with the Material Design, there are thousands of icon sets for Nova Launcher.
- Color schemes. For folders, notification badges, sections in the application menu.
- Customizable application list- create sections, choose horizontal or vertical scrolling, customize effects.
- Backup- save settings to transfer to another device.
- Scrolling in the Dock- create several docks with applications and scroll through them.
- Widgets in the Dock- with Nova you can place widgets in the dock, for example a 4x1 player widget.
List of paid version features:
- Gestures- control using gestures.
- Notification badges- with badges on application icons you will never miss a notification.
- Ability to hide unused applications in the application menu.
- Additional scrolling effects.
Microsoft Launcher
The once equally popular Arrow Launcher has become Microsoft Launcher, absorbing the full power of Microsoft services. It is still one of the most convenient and customizable. Ideal for users of Microsoft services and Windows OS. Key features: a huge number of design themes, quick access to contacts, synchronization with a Windows PC, and gesture control.
Apex Launcher
The next launcher is no less famous and popular - Apex Launcher. Apex pleasantly surprises with its flexibility in settings and a large set of functions in the free version, but nevertheless, for full use, I recommend upgrading to the paid PRO version.
List of features of the free version:
- Fully customizable home screen
- Dock with scrolling
- Ability to hide unused applications
- Controlling the display of elements (search bar, status bar, dock, etc.)
- Customizable folder appearance
- Sorting applications in the application menu "App Drawer" (by name, by installation date, by frequency of use)
- Gesture control
- Saving and restoring settings
Features of the paid PRO version:
- Notification badges
- Additional gestures
- Additional functions for working with folders
- Additional options for placing widgets (widgets in the dock, etc.)
Evie Launcher
Evie Launcher is a relatively new launcher. Evie is notable for its simplicity and minimalism; this is the very case when you need a launcher that is lightweight and not overloaded with excessive functionality.
Main functions:
- Universal search. Find the information you need in applications, files, or on the Internet. All in one place.
- Fast navigation.
- Customizable shortcuts for quick actions, for example, “Call your parents.”
- Personalization. Customize the wallpaper, icon size, etc.
New features:
- Select default search. (Google, DuckDuckGo, Bing)
- Locking Homescreen icons.
- Notifications from Android O
- Customize the application menu (App drawer) and folders
Yandex.Launcher
Finally, we have saved a launcher from a domestic manufacturer - Yandex.Launcher. What's good about the Yandex launcher is that its functions are absolutely free. The Yandex launcher will be an ideal option for users of Yandex services.
There are more than enough free launchers for Android. The many options available in Android present us with a problem of choice, so let us solve this difficult problem for you. After all, it's easier to choose between three best, than between thirty, right?
We've done Android launcher comparisons in the past, but good paid apps don't always come with equally good free apps. In addition, the functionality of Android applications has changed a lot since then.
Today, if you want to make changes to Android without paying a penny, check out the following list of the best launchers. All of them are excellent, so you can't go wrong by choosing any of them.
Note: All of the following launchers have been tested on the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini.
is perhaps the most popular launcher to ever grace the Play Store. Created and controlled by TeslaCoil Software, this beautiful application is every power user's dream. In almost every web article devoted to a review of Android, one can see the highest assessments of its capabilities, and interest is growing every day.
This is confirmed by our review of Nova Launcher in 2012, when we concluded that it was the best launcher available at the time. Three years later, even with increased competition, we're inclined to think the Nova is a top contender.
What makes Nova Launcher so unique?
The main feature of Nova is its close attention to user settings. It offers various customization options that you can adjust to create the screen format you want, including multiple home screens, different icon sizes and grid layouts, subgrids for more flexibility, icon padding, etc.
Nova is also making changes to the Drawer app. Icon sizes and grid layouts are also adjustable here, and you can switch to the overall list view if you wish. It doesn't stop there, Nova also gives you more options for drawing widgets, grouping them by app for optimal organization.
And it doesn't matter whether you're dealing with the Home screen or the Drawer app, you have unlimited options for scrolling the page over and over again. You can also change animation settings as you switch between them.
Having folders on the home screen allows you to group icons to save space and streamline organization. Almost any object (labels, folders, tabs, etc.) on the main screen changes its color palette.
Finally, the docks have undergone significant changes. The Dock, located at the bottom of the home screen, has a wide range of different visual options such as background appearance and icon design. Nova's capabilities allow you to scroll through anywhere from 1 to 5 dock pages independently from the main screen.
While the free version of Nova is quite acceptable, you may want the upgraded version of Nova Launcher Prime (RUR 220) with a full set of the following options: screen and icon operations, unread items, custom tabs and folders in the Drawer app, hidden apps, more visual effects.
It is one of the oldest free launchers that has not lost its relevance to this day. It's funny, but Apex Launcher is often compared to Nova Launcher with the claim that they are largely similar in terms of quality, but the latter has received the lion's share of fame and recognition. This doesn't mean that Apex is a Nova clone or anything like that. It has its own characteristics, its own nuances and its own reasons to convince you that the Apex may actually be better than the highly acclaimed Nova. I reviewed Apex in 2013, and my opinion hasn't changed since then: this launcher is a real beast!
What makes Apex Launcher one of the best?
The first thing that piques your interest is the range of sizes available for home screen grids. Many launchers, including Nova, limit you to about six rows and six columns, but Apex allows you to expand the scope to ten rows and ten columns, respectively. For a small screen this is clearly a limitation, however it is absolutely amazing for larger phones and tablets.
Apex also has separate customization options for grids with Portrait and Landscape mods, meaning you can optimize your screen layout in terms of how you hold the device. Other home screen features include infinite scrolling, transition visuals, and a few other nifty tricks.
The Drawer app's customization options are great, and Portrait and Landscape layouts are also available, but Apex offers something in its free version that Nova can only offer commercially: hidden apps. Apex allows us to hide all those applications that we never directly download from the Drawer, thereby reducing clutter.
Is the paid option in Nova another Apex freebie? We are talking about home screen gestures. The actions can be characterized by the following five gestures: narrow, move up, move down, double tap, hold. There are a total of 15 different actions available.
And of course, you get themed controls like icon sets, color palettes, folders for organization, different drawing styles, launcher skins, and so on.
All of the above makes Apex a top-notch launcher, but if that's not enough for you, consider upgrading to ($200) for a number of benefits such as drawing folders, unread items, additional gestures, additional transition effects, and even support themes designed for launchers like ADW, Go or LauncherPro.
Due to its popularity on the Play Store, it is a shame that it is often not mentioned in the context of free launchers for Android, but it is really really good. In fact, at the time of writing this, I have to say that this is my favorite launcher for both smartphones and tablets.
The developer has several other applications under the dodol brand, including a keyboard, calendar, phone, file explorer, screenshot manager and several others. But of them all, the launcher is perhaps the best.
What makes dodol Launcher one of the best?
My personal appeal to dodol was due to its characteristics. Over the past few years, I've tested numerous launchers on my device and while some of them (like Nova and Apex) have performed well, none have been as fast as this one. Still, dodol is not only fast, but also has a lot of characteristics.
Just like Nova and Apex, dodol supports custom home screen grid layouts, and dodol goes further by offering a range of 3x3 to 12x12 screen icons. Icon sizes, labels, color palette, shadows and edges are also customizable. Folders help organize the entire process.
The dock at the bottom of the screen can have up to five pages, each page containing from 1 to 7 icons. Iconic and style indicators can be customized as desired. As with the Home screen, the Drawer app is customizable in a variety of ways, with the ability to hide apps and/or labels from the general list.
As for aesthetic changes, dodol comes with a theme shop that stores tons of submitted and user-created changes. Browse Top as well as Dodol's Pick categories to find a huge number of high quality themes and wallpapers.
Gestures are also available: move up, move down, do it with two fingers, hold, double tap. All of them are tied to one of the possible eight combinations. Unlike the above launchers, dodol also comes with a cleaner app that manually frees up RAM. What I really love about dodol is that there are no investments, it is truly free, without an additional commercial version. No ads or annoying screen. This launcher actively competes with Nova and Apex, being initially the winner in this battle.
What do you prefer?
In case the three launchers above didn't live up to your expectations, or you're looking for something less traditional, then check out Aviate, Buzz Launcher, and Action Launcher.
The Aviate launcher shows positive dynamics, changing throughout the day to suit your goals. Buzz Launcher is really great and you can choose from about 60,000 base themes. Action Launcher is characterized by minimalism and speed, as well as an arsenal of tempting options.
What free launchers do you remember? Are there any that have gone unnoticed? Do you think it would be better to shell out a few dollars for a quality paid launcher? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
Application management systems for smartphones running on the Android operating system are characterized by low functionality and ease of management. Therefore, to quickly work with applications, you will need a launcher - a program that operates files with the ability to use a wide range of functions. How to choose the best launcher for Android in 2018 - this will be discussed in this review article.
Launcher selection
There are various factors to consider when choosing this application. One of them is the level of consumption of system and hardware resources of the smartphone. You also need to pay attention to its functionality, which determines ease of use. The article below lists the best launchers for Android OS in 2018.
Best options
From the variety of programs on the Play Store, we tried to select the best options.
A functional and easy-to-use launcher that allows the smartphone owner to fully control any type of file. It allows the user to see all the icons of the applications used. The program is distributed free of charge. 
The launcher is capable of completely changing the internal design of the smartphone, so it is ideal for those who find the standard Android OS shell inconvenient. Disadvantages - a significant amount of memory occupied and an increase in the level of power consumption of the smartphone. In general, the launcher allows you to quickly configure the functionality and method of managing applications.
A comprehensive application featuring a large number of popular innovations. The launcher is stable in operation, has a wide range of settings and opportunities for customization. It is ideal for those who prefer to customize applications “for themselves.” 
The application has many modern features that are found in the programs of many popular developers. Disadvantage: the launcher is designed for installation on smartphones with the latest version of Android OS. This application is suitable for those who fine-tune the functionality of programs at their own discretion, while keeping track of the latest OS updates.
Yandex.Launcher
A popular option, the main feature of which is the voice assistant. Alice is built into the shell itself, making it easy to interact with. The system is flexibly customizable (from wallpaper to changing icons or the entire theme). You can install widgets. Integration with Yandex services is at a high level due to the proprietary launcher. 
It is worth noting that the product is regularly updated and receives new features. Great option for everyday use.
The application allows the user to apply several types of optimization of the smartphone operating system, including graphic design. The launcher is characterized by stable operation and functionality that makes it possible to perform a standard set of actions with files. 
It allows you to select the best option from those created by developers or users due to the presence of an element of social interaction. Although some users negatively criticize the social functionality of the application that interferes with work. Overall, the launcher is indispensable for those who want to use the best smartphone design without wasting extra time.
The application works stably, there is basic functionality for operating files. The launcher is integrated with Microsoft services, which is convenient for fans of programs from this developer; you can use Outlook, Office, etc. 
Disadvantages are the inconvenient standard Microsoft tiled design, as well as the load the launcher puts on the Android OS shell. Therefore, the application is optimal primarily for those who want to use integrated Microsoft services.
A fairly simple application with a beautiful design that does not load the smartphone’s operating system. It is distributed free of charge and always works reliably even on “weak” mobile devices. The main distinguishing feature of the launcher is the ability to track all user actions on the smartphone in order to provide useful context clues. The level of consumption of system and hardware resources is low. 
The disadvantage is a large number of advertising blocks. In general, the application is optimal for users looking for a simple launcher with wide functionality and the presence of contextual hints.
Go Launcher Ex
Although the program is not a launcher in its “pure form,” it is capable of creating an entire independent ecosystem inside a smartphone. The standard package includes a launcher, locker, calendar, browser, weather notification application, etc., which interact well with each other. The launcher is stable in operation and has wide functionality for managing applications. 
The disadvantage is that there are many additional programs and their close interaction, so components cannot be installed selectively. This application is suitable for users who use GOMO Limited programs, due to the fact that the launcher was created by this development company.
EverythingMe Launcher
The application is a fully functional assistant for using a smartphone, capable of sorting, processing and searching for the necessary data. The program organizes applications into folders, displays icons of important contacts on the desktop, and also gives recommendations about new software. The launcher has a “Forecast Panel” that launches various functions and programs, focusing on the time of day and the user’s current location. 
The main disadvantages are a small number of settings, a load on RAM and restarting the application after any changes in the settings. But overall, the launcher is a wonderful functional assistant.
A simple application that does not take up a lot of RAM, which can work on various smartphones, even outdated models, while being one of the leaders among launchers. It does not load the software shell and has almost no working icons. The launcher features gesture control functions. Slightly affects the internal settings of the smartphone and the operation of programs. 
Its disadvantage is its small functionality, which is due to the size of the program. At the same time, the efficiency of the application allows it to reliably perform all basic functions.
This launcher has a basic set of functions, but is capable of making fundamental changes to the internal shell of the Android OS. The application is suitable for those who appreciate creative, non-standard design and are tired of the usual Android menu. One of the differences between the program is that its menu changes its appearance, with the icons located on the desktop in the shape of a ring. Multifunctional and fast launcher. 
The disadvantage is a significant impact on the design of the device menu and incompatibility with some desktop wallpapers. This functional launcher is optimal for connoisseurs of the unique design of the Android OS.
Conclusion
Each of the above applications has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the best launcher for Android for 2018 is ultimately determined largely by the individual requirements of the smartphone owner. You should not rush to tempting advertising offers - make the right informed choice through your own trials.
One of the main advantages of Android over other mobile operating systems is the wide range of options for customizing the interface and design. In addition to the built-in tools for this, there are third-party applications - launchers that change the appearance of the main screen, desktops, dock panel, icons, application menus, adding new widgets, animation effects and other features.
This review contains the best free launchers for Android phones and tablets in Russian, brief information about their use, functions and settings, and, in some cases, disadvantages.
Nova Launcher is one of the most popular free (there is also a paid version) launchers for Android smartphones and tablets, which has deservedly remained one of the leaders over the past few years (some other software of this kind, unfortunately, gets worse over time).
The default appearance of Nova Launcher is close to that of Google Start (except that you can select a dark theme and scroll directions in the application menu during initial setup).
All customization options can be found in the Nova Launcher settings, among them (with the exception of the standard parameters for the number of desktops and settings common to most launchers):
- Various themes for Android icons
- Customizing colors and icon sizes
- Horizontal and vertical scrolling in the application menu, support for scrolling and adding widgets to the dock
- Night mode support (changes color temperature depending on time)
One of the important advantages of Nova Launcher, noted in reviews by many users, is its high speed even on not the fastest devices. One of the features (not noticed by me in other launchers at the current time) is support for long-pressing an application in the application menu (in those applications that support this, a menu appears with a selection of quick actions).
You can download Nova Launcher on Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher
Microsoft Launcher (formerly called Arrow Launcher)
The Arrow Android launcher was developed by Microsoft and, in my opinion, they have created a very successful and convenient application.
Among the special (compared to other similar) functions in this launcher:
Another noticeable difference in Arrow Launcher is the application menu, which is reminiscent of the list of applications in the Windows 10 Start menu and supports by default the function of hiding applications from the menu (in the free version of Nova Launcher, for example, the function is not available, although it is very popular, see).
To summarize, I recommend at least giving it a try, especially if you use Microsoft services (and even if you don’t). Arrow Launcher page in Play Store - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.launcher
Apex Launcher is another fast, clean, and highly customizable Android launcher that deserves attention.
This launcher may be especially interesting for those who do not like excessive overload and, at the same time, want to be able to customize almost everything as they wish, including gestures, the appearance of the dock panel, icon sizes and much more (hiding applications, choosing fonts, many available themes).
You can download Apex Launcher on Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.anddoes.launcher
Go Launcher
If you had asked me about the best launcher for Android exactly 5 years ago, I would have definitely answered - Go Launcher (aka Go Launcher EX and Go Launcher Z).
Today there will be no such unambiguous answer in my answer: the application has acquired necessary and unnecessary functions, excessive advertising, and, it seems, has lost speed. Nevertheless, I think someone might like it, there are reasons for this:
Pixel Launcher
And another official launcher from Google - Pixel Launcher, first presented on Google's own Pixel smartphones. In many ways it is similar to Google Start, but there are also differences in the application menu and the way to call them, the assistant, and search on the device.
It can be downloaded from the Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nexuslauncher but most likely you will see a message saying that your device is not supported. However, if you want to experiment, you can download the APK with the Google Pixel launcher (see), with a high probability, it will launch and work (requires Android version 5 or newer).
I’ll conclude here, but if you can offer your own excellent options for launchers or point out some shortcomings of the ones listed, your comments will be useful.
