Android customization starts with the launcher. The stock launcher on your phone gets the job done, but third-party launchers unlock a whole new level of personalization. Whether you want a cleaner home screen, faster navigation, or a completely different look, there is a launcher for you.
We have tested and ranked the best Android launchers available in 2026. Each entry covers features, pricing, and what makes it stand out. If you enjoy customizing your device, you might also like our roundup of the best Chrome themes to match your new setup.
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What is an Android Launcher?
An Android launcher is the app that manages your home screen, app drawer, and overall navigation. Every phone ships with a default launcher. Google Pixel devices use the Pixel Launcher, while Samsung phones run One UI Home. These defaults are functional but limited in customization options.
Third-party launchers replace the default and give you control over icons, layouts, gestures, animations, and more. Installing one from the Google Play Store is safe and does not require root access.
Why Use a Third-Party Launcher?
Default launchers lack flexibility. Third-party launchers let you customize nearly every visual and functional element. You can change icon packs, adjust grid sizes, set custom gestures, and even mimic the look of other operating systems. They do not slow down your phone when properly configured, and battery impact is minimal compared to the default launcher on most devices.
If you want to get more out of your phone, exploring launchers is a great start. For other ways to use your device creatively, check out how to use your mobile phone as a webcam.
1. Nova Launcher (Prime)
Nova Launcher remains the gold standard for Android customization. It has been around for over a decade and continues to receive updates with support for the latest Android versions. The launcher offers unmatched flexibility with custom icon grids, gesture controls, scroll effects, and backup/restore options.
The free version covers the basics. Nova Launcher Prime unlocks advanced gestures, unread badge counts, custom app drawer tabs, and the ability to hide apps without uninstalling them. Prime is a one-time purchase with no subscription required.
- Price: Free / Prime $4.99
- Rating: 4.6
- Downloads: 50,000,000+
- Developer: TeslaCoil Software
2. Lawnchair 2
Lawnchair 2 brings the Pixel Launcher experience to any Android device. It includes Google Feed integration, notification dots, and the “At a Glance” widget. The launcher supports Sesame universal search, adaptive icon theming, and automatic dark mode scheduling.
It is still in active development and receives regular updates. The launcher is open source and completely free. You get Pixel-level smoothness without needing a Pixel phone.
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.5
- Downloads: 1,000,000+
- Developer: Lawnchair Team
3. POCO Launcher 2.0
POCO Launcher is known for its speed and minimal footprint. It organizes apps into categories automatically, making it easy to find games, messaging apps, and media players. You can swipe down anywhere on the home screen to pull down the notification shade, and swipe up to launch Google Assistant.
The launcher includes a memory cleaner shortcut and supports third-party icon packs. It is lightweight and works well on older devices.
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.7
- Downloads: 10,000,000+
- Developer: Xiaomi Inc.
4. ASAP Launcher
ASAP Launcher rethinks the Android interface. Your app tray is accessed with a swipe from the left edge, and frequently used apps appear when you swipe up from the bottom. A double-tap on the desktop pulls down the notification bar. The right edge opens your calendar and to-do list, while the left edge shows contacts and weather.
There are no widgets, no multiple home screens, and no folders. The focus is on speed and minimalism. The pro version adds auto day/night mode and more color options.
- Price: Free / Pro $1.49
- Rating: 4.3
- Downloads: 500,000+
- Developer: Tim Clark
5. BlackBerry Launcher
BlackBerry Launcher focuses on productivity and organization. It includes pop-up widgets that appear when you swipe up on an app icon, task shortcuts for repeated actions, and a unified inbox for messages. The launcher integrates with BlackBerry apps like Hub, Calendar, and Notes.
Customization options are limited compared to rivals. The launcher uses a subscription model after a 30-day free trial.
- Price: Free 30-day trial, then $0.99/month
- Rating: 4.1
- Downloads: 1,000,000+
- Developer: BlackBerry Limited
6. X Launcher
X Launcher brings an iOS-style interface to Android. It uses square icons, an iOS-style control center accessible by swiping down, and a 3D Touch-like feature for supported apps. The app drawer is preserved, so you are not forced into the iOS app layout.
The control center gives you fast access to brightness, volume, flashlight, camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other toggles. You can also access notifications by swiping from the top of the screen.
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.6
- Downloads: 10,000+
- Developer: Launchers Developer
7. Hyperion Launcher
Hyperion Launcher offers deep customization inspired by OxygenOS. It includes smart gesture support for one-handed use, custom animations, adaptive icon shaping, and typography controls. The launcher is created by the team behind the Substratum theme engine, so quality and polish are evident throughout.
The free version includes basic customization. The paid version unlocks gestures, cloud backup, adaptive icon shaping, and the Google smart widget.
- Price: Free / Pro $2.99
- Rating: 4.2
- Downloads: 500,000+
- Developer: Prjkt.io
8. Microsoft Launcher
Microsoft Launcher is the go-to choice for Windows users. It syncs your photos, documents, and clipboard across your phone and PC using your Microsoft account. The glance widget supports Cortana and provides fast access to your tasks and calendar. Daily Bing wallpapers keep your home screen fresh.
Swiping up from the dock brings up quick settings. Swiping down from anywhere opens a universal search for files, apps, web, and messages. The launcher also includes a high-performance mode for a snappier experience.
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.6
- Downloads: 10,000,000+
- Developer: Microsoft Corporation
9. Niagara Launcher
Niagara Launcher takes a completely different approach. Instead of a grid of apps, it shows a vertical list of your most-used apps on the home screen. All other apps are organized alphabetically for quick access. A media control widget appears on the desktop when music or audiobooks are playing.
It supports dark mode, custom icon packs, and resizable icons. Niagara has been featured by XDA Developers, Lifewire, and Tom’s Guide. It is one of the most innovative launchers available today.
- Price: Free / Pro $4.99
- Rating: 4.5
- Downloads: 1,000,000+
- Developer: Peter Huber
10. Smart Launcher 6
Smart Launcher 6 introduces a modern Acrylic Design language with adaptive icons, automatic app sorting into categories, and a smart search that can find apps, contacts, and web results. Swipe right on the desktop to access widgets, and swipe down for a Microsoft-powered news feed.
The pro version adds pop-up widgets, custom icon sorting, blur effects, and an ultra-immersion mode that hides the status bar and navigation buttons for a full-screen experience.
- Price: Free / Pro $3.99
- Rating: 4.4
- Downloads: 10,000,000+
- Developer: Smart Launcher Team
Which Android Launcher Should You Choose?
The best launcher depends on your needs. Nova Launcher Prime is the most feature-rich option and works for almost everyone. Niagara Launcher is ideal if you prefer a minimalist setup. Microsoft Launcher is perfect if you are deep in the Windows ecosystem. If you want a pure Pixel experience without buying a Pixel phone, Lawnchair 2 is the best free option.
Most launchers on this list are free to try, so download a few and see which one feels right. Customizing your Android device is one of the best parts of the platform. For more Android tips and list-style guides, check out our best free reverse phone lookup apps and other recommendations.
