Visual app browsing first
Open apps from a grid that feels like Launchpad, not a command console or automation hub.
Launchpad alternative for macOS.
Facet is a Launchpad alternative for macOS users who want a familiar visual launcher instead of a search-only app opener. It combines app grid browsing, keyboard search, folders, local-first privacy, and a $14.99 one-time license.
A simpler alternative to power-user launchers.
Keyboard search when useful
Search when you know the app name, and browse when you do not remember what a tool is called.
Private paid-once utility
No ad tracking, no telemetry growth loops, and no subscription pressure.
Who should use Facet?
Facet is for people who launch apps visually, maintain app folders, or miss the old Launchpad experience. It is not trying to replace advanced automation tools such as command palettes, snippets, scripts, or clipboard managers. It is a focused Mac app for restoring a clean Launchpad-style workflow.
- Choose Facet if you want a visual grid, folders, search, and Launchpad import.
- Choose Spotlight if you mostly search by app or file name.
- Choose a power launcher if you need workflows and automation.
- See the Facet comparison page for a deeper breakdown.
How Facet compares with built-in Launchpad.
Built-in Launchpad is useful when it is available and behaves the way you expect. Facet is for the cases where the built-in experience feels missing, unstable, or too limited for how you organize apps. It keeps the familiar grid but gives it a dedicated app window, keyboard search, folder organization, and an import path for an existing Launchpad layout.
- Use built-in Launchpad if it is already easy to open and you do not need customization.
- Use Facet if you want a persistent Launchpad-style app launcher with clearer organization.
- Use the Launchpad location guide before replacing anything if you only need to find the missing shortcut.