Microsoft PowerToys vs Raycast
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Microsoft PowerToys is a collection of free, open-source utilities that extend Windows with productivity tools such as window layout management, a quick launcher, bulk file renaming, keyboard remapping, and a system-wide color picker. It is built and maintained by Microsoft with an active open-source community on GitHub.
Raycast is a proprietary launcher for macOS with a free tier that allows users to quickly access and manage their applications, files, and more. With a highly customizable interface and a wide range of extensions available, Raycast is a powerful tool for boosting productivity and streamlining workflows.
Monthly and Annual plans available
- Completely free and open source
- Actively maintained with frequent Microsoft-backed releases
- Wide range of independent utilities you can enable individually
- Backed by an active GitHub community for bug reports and features
- Highly customizable and extensible
- Fast and powerful search functionality
- Wide range of built-in features and third-party extensions
- Generous free tier for the core launcher, with Raycast Pro from $8/month
- Windows-only, no Mac or Linux version
- Some utilities are still experimental and can be less polished
- Requires manually enabling and configuring each utility you want
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Limited support for certain file types and applications
- Not suitable for users who prefer a more traditional launcher interface
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Microsoft PowerToys
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Multi-monitor management utility for custom taskbars, wallpapers, and window automation.
A free, open-source quick launcher and search bar for Windows, triggered with a hotkey.


