Listary vs SOL
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Listary is a Windows utility that combines instant file search with an application launcher, letting users search an entire drive or launch a program just by typing a few characters. Results are ranked using fuzzy matching and the user's own habits, so frequently used files and apps surface faster over time. It also integrates with native Windows Open/Save dialogs through a Quick Switch feature for faster in-app file navigation, and supports filtering by file type or date, direct file actions like copy or copy-path, and searching across network and cloud drives. The base app is free, with a Pro upgrade unlocking commercial use and extra features.
SOL is a free, open-source macOS launcher built as a lightweight alternative to Spotlight, Alfred, and Raycast, focused on speed and minimal setup. It bundles an app and file launcher with an emoji picker, calculator, clipboard history, calendar lookup, window management, and quick notes into a single keyboard-driven command bar.
- Fully usable for free with a low-cost one-time Pro upgrade rather than a subscription
- Very fast search performance across large local drives
- Quick Switch meaningfully speeds up native Open/Save dialog navigation
- Lightweight and simple to learn compared to more complex launcher/automation tools
- Completely free and open source
- No account, telemetry, or data collection
- Combines several utilities in one lightweight app
- Installable via Homebrew for easy setup
- Windows-only, no Mac or Linux version
- Free version is restricted to personal, non-commercial use
- Interface and feature set are more utilitarian than visually polished modern launchers
- macOS only
- Smaller plugin ecosystem than Alfred or Raycast
- Community-maintained with less polish in some edge features
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Listary
View all →A free, open-source quick launcher and search bar for Windows, triggered with a hotkey.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataSOL is a free, open‑source macOS‑only launcher that bundles many utilities, while Listary is a freemium Windows‑only launcher focused on ultra‑fast file search.
Key differences
- •Platform: SOL runs only on macOS; Listary runs only on Windows.
- •Pricing model: SOL is completely free and open source; Listary offers a free tier but Pro requires a one‑time purchase.
- •Feature focus: SOL combines app launch, calculator, clipboard history, window management, etc.; Listary concentrates on indexed file search and Open/Save dialog replacement.
- •Ecosystem: SOL has a smaller plugin community; Listary has no plugin ecosystem but integrates deeply with Windows dialogs and network drives.
- •Privacy: SOL has no telemetry or data collection; Listary’s privacy details not specified.
Pricing & value
SOL is completely free and open source; Listary’s full feature set requires a paid Pro upgrade.
Ease of use / learning curve
Listary replaces native Open/Save dialogs, offering immediate speed gains for Windows users; SOL requires learning multiple utilities.
Features & depth
SOL bundles calculator, clipboard history, window management, notes, and process manager in one app.
Integrations & ecosystem
Listary integrates with native Windows dialogs, network and cloud drives; SOL’s integrations are limited to bookmarks and media keys.
Support
Listary provides email support; SOL only offers GitHub issue tracking.
Security & privacy
SOL explicitly states no telemetry or data collection; Listary’s privacy practices are not specified.
Choose Listary if…
Windows power users who prioritize lightning‑fast file search and native dialog integration, and can accept a paid upgrade for full features.
Choose SOL if…
Mac power users who need a free, all‑in‑one launcher with extra utilities and value privacy.
Common questions
Can I use SOL on Windows?
No, SOL is macOS‑only.
Do I need to pay for Listary’s full features?
The free version is usable, but the Pro features require a one‑time purchase.
Which tool offers more privacy?
SOL explicitly has no telemetry or data collection; Listary’s privacy details are not provided.


