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SOL

SOL

Free open-source macOS launcher combining app search, clipboard, and calculator

softwareLaunchers & Docksapp launchermacOS utilityopen source
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Our Verdict

Best for

Mac users who want a free, no-frills Raycast/Alfred alternative

Skip if

You need Windows support or an extensive third-party plugin store

What is SOL?

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.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentDesktop App
open source✅ Yes
api available❌ No
support optionsGitHub issues
key integrationsSpotify media keys, browser bookmarks

Key Features of SOL

Launches applications and finds files through a fast, keyboard-driven command bar.
Includes a built-in calculator, emoji picker, and unit/currency conversions.
Keeps a clipboard history that can be searched and reused.
Provides basic window management commands for resizing and positioning windows.
Offers browser bookmark search and calendar event lookup from the same bar.
Supports quick notes and a process manager for closing running apps.
Includes developer-focused commands such as clearing Xcode derived data.
Forwards media keys for controlling playback in apps like Spotify.

Use Cases for SOL

1

Fast app switching

Launch and switch between applications instantly using a keyboard shortcut instead of the Dock.

2

Quick calculations while working

Use the built-in calculator and unit converter without opening a separate app.

3

Managing clipboard history

Search and reuse previously copied text through the built-in clipboard history.

4

Basic window arrangement

Reposition and resize windows using launcher commands without a separate window manager.

Pros & Cons of SOL

Pros

  • Completely free and open source
  • No account, telemetry, or data collection
  • Combines several utilities in one lightweight app
  • Installable via Homebrew for easy setup

Cons

  • macOS only
  • Smaller plugin ecosystem than Alfred or Raycast
  • Community-maintained with less polish in some edge features

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SOL free?

Yes, it is completely free and open source.

How do I install SOL?

You can download a release from GitHub or install it via Homebrew with brew install --cask sol.

Does SOL replace Spotlight?

It's designed as a faster, more feature-rich alternative to Spotlight, Alfred, and Raycast.

Is SOL available for Windows?

No, SOL is macOS only.

Pricing Overview

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Free

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

Reviews & Ratings0.0

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Raycast

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Wox

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Wox is a lightweight, open-source launcher that allows users to quickly access their favorite applications, files, and web searches. With its simple and intuitive interface, Wox provides a seamless user experience across multiple platforms.

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Alfred

Alfred

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Alfred is a productivity application for macOS that lets users launch applications, find files, and search the web from a keyboard-driven command bar. The free version includes app launching, file search, a calculator, spelling and dictionary lookup, and basic clipboard access. The Alfred Powerpack unlocks Workflows for building custom automations that link hotkeys, keywords, and actions without code, along with text expansion snippets, full clipboard history, macOS Music app control, and additional themes. Alfred 5 licenses are sold as a Single License for individual use or a Mega Supporter license that adds free lifetime upgrades, and the app runs natively on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs running macOS 10.14 or later.

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Best For

💻Developers🧑‍💻Freelancers

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About the Product

Unclaimed Listing
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github
Platforms
Mac
Target AudienceMac power users who want a free, open-source, keyboard-driven launcher without a subscription

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Tags

app launchermacOS utilityopen sourcespotlight alternativeproductivity

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