When comparing Launchy vs Bayden SlickRun, the Slant community recommends Launchy for most people. In the question“What are the best app launchers for Windows?” Launchy is ranked 5th while Bayden SlickRun is ranked 15th. The most important reason people chose Launchy is:
For those using Debian based distros Launchy is very easy to install as their website has 32 and 64bit .deb files available. For all other diistros Launchy will have to be compiled from source.
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Pros
Pro .deb files available for Debian based distros
For those using Debian based distros Launchy is very easy to install as their website has 32 and 64bit .deb files available. For all other diistros Launchy will have to be compiled from source.
Pro Easily themed with many available on the web
Launchy can be easily themedby placing themes into the Launchy theme folder and then selecting that theme from within the apps settings. There are also many user created themes available which is great for those that want their launcher to match the rest of their OS's theme.
Pro Can handle multiple tasks
It doesn't only run apps with the config you want, it also can execute many commands, automate tasks and run batches to execute more tasks.
Pro Can be used portable for a USB drive or cloud share
Pro Can be set to be invisible
For those that do not like the looks of the app it can be set to be invisible so users do not have to look at it.
Pro Option to pass an argument via $W$ parameter
Example: Set the filename or URL to execute to a web browser app, and enter this link in the Parameters text box.
When the magic word is executed, a "Dynamic input" dialog is displayed. The text entered in that dialog is passed to $W$.
Pro Use eyedropper to associate magic word with running windows app
Pro Use @multi@ to execute multiple magic words and/or multiple apps, open folders, etc.
Pro Create magic words that launch apps, open folders, open web pages
Cons
Con Small selection of plugins
The official plugin page on Launchy's homepage hosts just 11 plugins.
Con Abandoned
Launchy was last updated in 2010.
Con Sometimes Bayden SlickRun seems to be off-line
Con Manually have to set up what applications it will be able to launch
It only supports the applications you add (those you use really frequently) with the shortcut of your choice.