Listary vs Raycast
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Listary is a Windows utility that combines instant file search with an application launcher, letting users search an entire drive or launch a program just by typing a few characters. Results are ranked using fuzzy matching and the user's own habits, so frequently used files and apps surface faster over time. It also integrates with native Windows Open/Save dialogs through a Quick Switch feature for faster in-app file navigation, and supports filtering by file type or date, direct file actions like copy or copy-path, and searching across network and cloud drives. The base app is free, with a Pro upgrade unlocking commercial use and extra features.
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
- Fully usable for free with a low-cost one-time Pro upgrade rather than a subscription
- Very fast search performance across large local drives
- Quick Switch meaningfully speeds up native Open/Save dialog navigation
- Lightweight and simple to learn compared to more complex launcher/automation tools
- 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
- Free version is restricted to personal, non-commercial use
- Interface and feature set are more utilitarian than visually polished modern launchers
- 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 Listary
View all →A free, open-source quick launcher and search bar for Windows, triggered with a hotkey.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataRaycast is a macOS‑only, highly extensible launcher with a generous free tier but a steeper learning curve, while Listary is a Windows‑only, ultra‑fast file search and launcher that works out‑of‑the‑box for free.
Key differences
- •Raycast runs only on macOS; Listary runs only on Windows.
- •Raycast offers extensive custom extensions and scripting; Listary focuses on fast indexed file search with minimal setup.
- •Raycast’s free tier is generous but Pro is subscription‑based; Listary’s full feature set is free with optional one‑time Pro purchase.
- •Raycast includes many built‑in integrations (GitHub, Notion, etc.); Listary integrates mainly with native Windows dialogs and network/cloud drives.
- •Raycast has a steeper learning curve for advanced automation; Listary is lightweight and simple to learn.
Pricing & value
Listary is fully usable for free with optional one‑time Pro upgrade; Raycast Pro costs $8/month.
Ease of use / learning curve
Listary is lightweight and simple; Raycast has a steep learning curve for advanced features.
Features & depth
Raycast provides scripting, extensions, hotkeys, and many built‑in features; Listary focuses on fast search.
Integrations & ecosystem
Raycast integrates with GitHub, Notion, Alfred, Terminal; Listary mainly integrates with Windows dialogs and drives.
Collaboration
Neither product mentions collaboration features; both are single‑user launchers.
Scalability
Both are desktop launchers; no data on handling large user bases or enterprise scaling.
Support
Raycast offers GitHub Issues, Email, Community Forum; Listary provides only Email support.
Choose Listary if…
Windows users who want instant file search and a simple, free launcher.
Choose Raycast if…
macOS power users needing deep automation and extensibility.
Common questions
Can I use Raycast on Windows?
No, Raycast is macOS‑only.
Is there a subscription cost for Listary?
No, Listary is free with an optional one‑time Pro upgrade.
Which tool offers more built‑in integrations?
Raycast, with integrations like GitHub, Notion, Alfred, and Terminal.


