If you’re looking for a replacement for Launchpad on macOS Tahoe, you’re not alone. While Spotlight is a convenient way to access your applications, it can feel limited for users who want more customization and better control over how their apps are organized. Thankfully, there are several third-party launchers that can enhance your workflow and give your Mac a fresh, personalized touch. Let’s explore some options that are available today.
AppDeck: A Flexible and Customizable Launcher
AppDeck is a great alternative for those who need both functionality and visual customization when trying to replace Launchpad on macOS Tahoe. The latest version of AppDeck is available for free from the developer’s website, and if you wish to support the creator, you can purchase it directly from the Mac App Store.
Key Features of AppDeck:
- Adjustable app icon display sizes for a personalized grid.
- The ability to hide apps you don’t want to see.
- Search functionality within Stacks (folders), not just across all apps.
- Customizable launcher colors to match your style.
- Support for creating multiple Decks, allowing you to organize sets of apps for different tasks or scenarios.
This flexibility makes AppDeck an excellent replacement if you want to go beyond the plain, static layout of Launchpad. AppDeck can be found here – Link
AppGrid Launcher: A Powerful Freemium Option
AppGrid Launcher is another strong contender for those looking to replace Launchpad on macOS Tahoe, offering a freemium model that provides essential features for free while unlocking advanced tools with an in-app purchase.
Free Features:
- Load your current Launchpad configuration directly into AppGrid.
- Change app display names for easier identification.
- Sort pages alphabetically (A–Z).
- Add missing apps to your grid automatically.
Pro Features:
- Multi-select drag-and-drop for faster organization.
- Group multiple items and create folders.
- Hide apps to reduce clutter.
- A–Z sorting for all pages at once.
- Backup and restore your configuration.
If you’re someone who likes to experiment with layouts but doesn’t want to fully commit financially at first, AppGrid Launcher provides the perfect starting point. You can find AppGrid here – Link
AppHub: A Near-Perfect Replica
AppHub is a paid app at $4.99, but it offers smooth, gesture-based navigation and intuitive features for those who prefer efficiency and elegance when they replace Launchpad on macOS Tahoe.
Highlighted Features:
- Full support for trackpad gestures and Hot Corners for quicker access.
- Import your existing Launchpad layout for a seamless transition.
- Delete apps directly from AppHub.
- Drag apps to the Dock with ease.
- Hide or show apps to control exactly what appears on your screen.
AppHub is especially appealing if you want a launcher that feels native to macOS but with added functionality missing from the default Launchpad. You can purchase your copy here – Link
Conclusion
If you find the new Spotlight too restrictive on macOS Tahoe, these three alternatives—AppDeck, AppGrid Launcher, and AppHub—provide a range of solutions to meet your organizational and aesthetic needs. Whether you prefer a free option with customization, a freemium model with upgrade potential, or a one-time purchase with sleek usability, there’s a replacement that can make managing your Mac apps smoother and more enjoyable.
I hope this article provided you with what you were looking for. If you have any feedback, please leave a comment.
Credits
- Apple – The Featured Image.
