AppGrid
ActiveOverview
AppGrid is a macOS application that replaces the Launchpad feature, which is being removed in macOS Tahoe, by providing a classic grid view for organizing and launching apps. It automatically detects and displays installed applications in a visual grid similar to the original Launchpad, with free core functionality and pro features available via in-app purchase. Targeted at macOS users seeking a familiar, simple app launcher with added customization options.27
Key Features
- Classic Grid View - Displays apps in a straightforward visual grid like the original Launchpad for quick access.
- App Renaming and Sorting - Allows renaming apps and sorting them alphabetically in the free version.
- Multi-Select Editing - Enables selecting multiple apps for editing, hiding, or reorganization (Pro only).
- Pro Customization - Unlocks cosmetic tweaks, themes, and layout adjustments (Pro only).
- Performance Optimizations - Boots quickly and handles large app libraries efficiently.
- Screen Size Support - Compatible with all screen sizes and resolutions as of version 1.27.
- Auto-Detection - Automatically adds newly installed apps to the grid.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Core Launchpad-style grid, renaming, alphabetical sorting. |
| Pro | €50 one-time or €2/month | Multi-select, hiding apps, advanced customization, layout backup. |
Platforms & Requirements
AppGrid runs exclusively on macOS and is available via the Mac App Store. It is designed as a replacement for Launchpad in macOS Tahoe and later, with low RAM usage around 100MB. No specific minimum requirements are detailed beyond macOS compatibility.257
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Auto-detects macOS installed apps
- App Store integration for download
- macOS Tahoe Launchpad replacement
- Hot corner activation (included)
- Keyboard shortcuts and dock/menu bar toggles (Pro)
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Launchie | Offers vertically scrolling interface, quicker customization, and lower Pro price at €18 one-time, but lacks some AppGrid grid management features.1 |
| LaunchOS | Competes as another Launchpad replacement, but AppGrid excels in rebuilding and managing large app grids.3 |
Reputation
AppGrid is viewed as a solid, low-resource replacement for Launchpad, praised for quick boot times, efficient handling of large app libraries, and familiarity for users missing the classic grid. Criticisms include limited free version functionality, requiring Pro upgrade for essential features like multi-select and hiding apps, and automatic addition of all new apps necessitating manual cleanup. It uses less RAM than some side-loaded alternatives but is seen as basic without Pro.15
Sources (7)
- https://www.launchie.app/blog/launchie-vs-appgrid
- https://apps.apple.com/dz/app/appgrid-launcher/id6748853585
- https://appgridmac.com/appgrid-vs-launchos-vs-launchie/
- https://sites.google.com/site/learneverythings/linux/sws-app-grid-a-faster-alternative-to-ubuntu-software-center
- https://kalebcadle.substack.com/p/rip-launchpad-on-macos-26
- https://appgridmac.com/appgrid-version-1-27/
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/appgrid-launcher/id6748853585