Like me, you are probably tired of the default launcher on your Android. You want something more minimal. Or, may you want something a bit flashy. Whatever the case, these are the best and free Android launchers to try.
Nova Launcher
Nova Launcher comes out on top when it comes to Android launchers. It’s minimal design and touch attracted over 50 million downloads. I particularly like the extra themes. So, I can make it to my own style.
Action Launcher 3
Action Launcher 3 has a Quick Theme feature that lets you customize the colors and accents based on your phone’s wallpaper. The makers built the launcher to look like the Google Pixel user interface.
Apex Launcher
Apex Launcher is pretty lightweight compared to other launchers on our list. You can customize your home screen to your liking. It’s fast, reliable, and it supports Google’s AOSP launcher. Lastly, it has a feature that lets you hide apps.
Google Now
Yes. Google Now is also a launcher. For a bare-bones Android feel, this is the option for you. It works well, is fast, and reliable. But, it does not have many customization features. Download it here.
Solo Launcher
Solo Launcher has a clean and easy to use interface. On top of being a launcher, it also has a memory booster, cache cleaner, and battery saver. Moreover, you can choose from a library of themes, lock apps, it supports gestures.
Buzz Launcher
When I turned off the Lenovo Vibe UI, I first used Buzz Launcher as a replacement. It had more themes (over 80,000), good support, and more customization features. Hence, it was a no-brainer.
N Launcher
N Launcher is a lightweight launcher. It focuses on the Nougat launcher. However, it has options to make your Android look like the Oreo or even Lollipop interface. You can add weather widgets, customize your icons, app names and more.
Go Launcher EX
Go Launcher calls itself the smart launcher for Android. It features performance optimization tools as well as support for several free themes in their theme store.
Themer
Themer – Discontinued is your one-click solution for a full overhaul of your smartphone’s look and feel. Like some of the other launcher, it also has optimization tools like a speed booster. All you have to do is choose a theme and install it. Themer does the rest.
Next Launcher 3D
If you’re into 3D animated effects, then Next Launcher 3D is the launcher to get. And, aside from the cache clearer, there’s not much else going for the launcher.
Line Launcher
Line Launcher has 3000+ classy and trendy themes from which to choose. There are also several free wallpapers and icons in the store. And, get this, you can add stickers & emoji to your screen.
Apus Launcher
Apus Launcher offers themes for Android, free launcher wallpapers, a one-tap speed booster, and, you can hide or lock apps. Moreover, if you like playing around with icons, there are many icon packs to check out.
Yahoo Aviate Launcher
Yahoo Aviate Launcher – Discontinued is another free launcher app by a big cooperation. Keep up to date with the latest news and weather right from your home screen. And, it also features performance enhancement features.
Hola Launcher
Hola Launcher is a pretty cool launcher. It thrives on most any Android smartphone because it does not use much of your system’s resources. And, one of the features I like is that you can change the wallpaper automatically. Moreover, Hola has performance enhancement options, icon packs, and a weather widget.
TouchWiz
I remember the TouchWiz launcher from the days on my Galaxy S5 (still a good phone by the way). The interface is simple and intuitive. I wouldn’t say it is the best Android launcher, but it certainly deserves a spot on the list.
C Launcher
C Launcher is another Android launcher that does not take up lots of space. Nor does it slow your Android. It automatically arranges your app drawer, has a performance booster, and it offers news, weather and other information.
Big Launcher
When I got my grandmother a phone she always complained about the font size and not being able to see. I found Big Launcher and now all is well. The icons and fonts are super big! Hence, the name. And, the user interface is fast and straightforward.
Nano Launcher
Nano Launcher is only 2MB in size. However, it packs a punch in terms of features. Features like smart sorting (app drawer), custom screen lock, a search bar and several wallpapers and icon packs. But, get this, this free launcher also reminds you to take a break from using your smartphone.
ZenUI
Yet another cool launcher, this time by ASUS. ZenUI has an AppLock and Hide App option. You can swipe up on any screen to access shortcuts to apps, widgets, wallpapers, app icons, themes and more. It also has a smart group feature that groups similar apps together.
Microsoft Launcher
Microsoft Launcher was once Arrow Launcher. But, after a redesign, Microsoft decided to re-brand and rename the app. Choose from wallpapers, theme colors, icon packs and link your Microsoft account to see your calendar, documents, and recent activities.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, I must say that there are tons of other cool Android launcher from which you can choose from the Google Play Store. However, the above free launchers lead the pack.