The best Android launchers in the UK 2023

Improve your Android experience by choosing a better launcher for your smartphone! Preferably, go for the light, smooth, but feature-rich launchers. Customizing it would be interesting so that you feel comfortable with it. But, with the development of the current high-tech, the choice can be difficult. What would be the ideal option: smart or manual icon management? Which one offers the most features? What color for the interface? No need to look elsewhere, let's take stock in this guide.

Nova Launcher 1
9/10

Best value for money

Nova Launcher

The best launcher in 2021

Looking for the best simple, but effective launcher? Nova Launcher will seduce you in every sense of the word. It is a must-have, compared to the launchers on Play Store. Its basic version as well as the premium one offers you as much functionality. By using it, you will enjoy the novelties that it brings day after day.

£ on Nova Launcher

Discover Nova Launcher, the customizable launcher of the year! Even if the parameter setting takes a little time, it is worth it. By doing it, you will have the choice between various models of interfaces. If you want a paid version, additional options will be offered to you.

Nova Launcher gives you a deeper control of your device. You can customize the size of the icons, the desktop, the app drawer. This launcher has made its reputation for countless years and never ceases to give us satisfaction. As close to Android, it is a turnkey version that offers you all the features of your device easily.

Microsoft Launcher 2
9/10

Fastest time to market

Microsoft Launcher

The best and fastest launcher

Looking for a customizable launcher that offers a smooth interface? Rest assured, the Microsoft Launcher stands up to other models of its kind and offers you an unparalleled home screen on a daily basis. Thanks to its Microsoft touch, you won't even want to change the default interface.

£ on Microsoft Launcher

Being a computer giant, Microsoft has launched the Android launcher to bring convenience to your screen. Its installation is quick, and it can be downloaded from Google Play. Its special approach has won over many users to date.

Even though the features offered are less, you can find the essentials and what you need. You can have as wallpaper news on Bing that changes daily. You can easily see the most used apps and contacts with a simple swing on the screen. Moreover, its use can also be controlled from a computer running Windows 10. This is its "Continue on PC" option.

Evie Launcher 3
9/10

Most competitive

Evie Launcher

The best and most competitive launcher

Turn your attention to the minimalist Evie launcher. Besides the extra features, it offers you a wide range of functionality. The goal is to prioritize your needs and preferences. It is a powerful and efficient launcher.

£ on Evie Launcher

Don't rely on its default setting, explore the different settings to see its full potential. Consider the preview of your home screen when setting it up. Take a good look at the size of the grid, the swipe gestures, the icon pack and the place of each app. Don't forget to add your personal touch when setting up.

This launcher is also faithful to Google. Your wallpaper will be decorated by the news of the search engine. This way, you will always be interested in your screen. Despite this, its configuration is simple. Moreover, all its functions are offered to you for free. Basically, it is a light, simple, but ergonomic launcher.

Action Launcher 4
9/10

Best alternative

Action Launcher

The best launcher for everyone

Discover the launcher chosen by millions of Android users! Action Launcher brings you more popular updates today. It has moved away from the standard to bring you a Pixel edition.

£ on Action Launcher

This launcher features the optimized design for Google. The options offered are innumerable. It has a free and a paid version, both of which are rewarding. It's a sophisticated launcher with its app drawer that is more than ergonomic.

To find your apps in one click, use its side menu. It contains a list of all the apps. Just click the one you want to launch. That's not all, if you like news and search, if you need it, the Google widget is ready to serve you. In short, if you don't want to miss out on all this, bet on Action Launcher!

Buying guide • November 2023

Best Android launcher

Any specific needs?

The best launcher in 2021

The best and fastest launcher

The best and most competitive launcher

The best launcher for everyone

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best Android launchers

TOP OF THE TOP THE FASTEST THE MOST COMPETITIVE ALTERNATIVE
Nova Launcher 5
9/10
Microsoft Launcher 6
9/10
Evie Launcher 7
9/10
Action Launcher 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Nova Launcher
Microsoft Launcher
Evie Launcher
Action Launcher
Looking for the best simple, but effective launcher? Nova Launcher will seduce you in every sense of the word. It is a must-have, compared to the launchers on Play Store. Its basic version as well as the premium one offers you as much functionality. By using it, you will enjoy the novelties that it brings day after day.
Looking for a customizable launcher that offers a smooth interface? Rest assured, the Microsoft Launcher stands up to other models of its kind and offers you an unparalleled home screen on a daily basis. Thanks to its Microsoft touch, you won't even want to change the default interface.
Turn your attention to the minimalist Evie launcher. Besides the extra features, it offers you a wide range of functionality. The goal is to prioritize your needs and preferences. It is a powerful and efficient launcher.
Discover the launcher chosen by millions of Android users! Action Launcher brings you more popular updates today. It has moved away from the standard to bring you a Pixel edition.
Size
7.96 Mb
23.99 Mb
8.54 Mb
16 Mb
Architecture
armeabi-v7a, x86, arm64-v8a, x86_64
armeabi-v7a, arm64-v8a
armeabi-v7a
armeabi-v7a, x86, arm64-v8a, x86_64
Language
French
French
French
French
Package name
com.teslacoilsw.launcher
com.microsoft.launcher
is.shortcut
com.actionlauncher.playstore
Author
TeslaCoil Software
Microsoft Corporation
Evie Labs Inc.
Chris Lacy

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - Android launcher

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How to choose your Android launcher

Did you know that a bad launcher can slow down your smartphone? That's why you should think twice before installing one. But the good thing is that you can always change it as you wish. In order to guide your choice, here are some points to consider.

#1 - Your needs

Since we're talking about aesthetics, color schemes, and apps used on a daily basis, it's up to you to choose what suits you. What do you need most? Which applications deserve to be always in front of you so you don't waste time? Take your time and look for the interface that suits you best. Consider your favorite color. If you like to put your photos on it, find the model that offers this possibility. List your needs and evaluate the capacity of each model.

#2 - The age of your phone

It's all very well to choose the perfect model, but it's useless if your smartphone doesn't even support it. So, consider its capacity and age. We all know that over time, the smartphone deteriorates. It may not support some launcher. Nevertheless, your device will inevitably find a launcher that will suit it perfectly since at one time it was. Just be careful and take only the versions that still work. It would be a shame if some apps didn't work because of the launcher.

#3 - The Android version of your phone

Nowadays, there are as many Android versions as possible features. If you want to enjoy a state-of-the-art launcher, the Android version of your phone should be as well. This way, you'll have a wide range of choices. Customizing your smartphone will be easy. Moreover, you will be able to enjoy its speed. Whether it's a free or paid launcher, you can enjoy the most as long as the Android version is up to date.

#4 - The additional launcher options

Some launchers such as the premium version offer more advanced options than others. These can offer more security and elegance to your home screen. After all, note that if the free version is already satisfactory, you will love the one with additional options even more. Another interesting option are the launchers that allow you to hide the icons. If you are the discreet type, it will be useful.

#5 - The convenience

The choice of your launcher should be made according to the level of practicality. Indeed, some launchers are less practical than others. It is therefore essential to test several interfaces to become familiar with this kind of product.

Tip

Try different launchers if the one you downloaded does not work properly. It could be that the problem is due to the incompatibility of the launcher with the Android version of your device.

How to download and install an Android launcher?

You've made your choice? You have trouble installing or setting it up? Now you can easily download and install it. Here are some pro tips to help you! Here are the steps to install your launcher.

  • Go to Google Play Store

To find a launcher you first go to Google Play Store. But before you do that, find out a little about the advantages and options that the best alternative launchers offer you.

  • Download the launcher of your choice

Once found, type the name of the application like "Microsoft Launcher 6.0" or "Nova Launcher". Then, click on "Download". Check the status of the download in case it takes a while to start and you have to do it again.

  • Open the launcher

After downloading, it says "install". Do the installation directly and then open the launcher directly. Go directly to parameter or setting.

  • Set up the launcher

When setting up, remember to change the icon size, desktop scrolling, app drawer, lock screen, etc. according to your style. Click on "apply" to save.

  • Finalize the settings

To finalize the settings, you will have to go to "Home". The smartphone will ask you if you want to use the alternative or original launcher. Then simply click on "always use". To enjoy permanently the last launcher you have chosen.

The different types of Android launchers

Tired of seeing the same thing on your Android screen? You should know that several types of launchers are available today. Download and install the most ergonomic of them after this discovery!

Original Android launchers

The original Android launcher is the default application launcher on your phone at first purchase. It is usually developed according to its brand. This is the launcher that remains at your disposal throughout the life of the smartphone. However, over time, it has been discovered that it lacks some features. Therefore, some brands offer updates to be more convenient and follow the current technological advance.

Many users remain loyal to these launchers, but some people do not even know that they can be changed. Nevertheless, currently the development of alternative launchers is making the headlines on social networks. As an advantage, they are convenient, free and always compatible with the phone.

Alternative Android launchers

Alternative Android launchers, on the other hand, are launchers that can be downloaded and installed on the phone. Their purpose is to personalize and improve the options. In various forms, the interfaces they offer are just as competitive.

If you like technology, explore the Android system and take advantage of the benefits they offer. What better way to start than with an alternative launcher? Thanks to its new versions, you can follow Bing or Google news, easily find your applications and enjoy a better wallpaper.

With alternative launchers, you will have more options. Some of them are free and others are paid. However, you will find richer features than the original Android launchers. Besides, they are easy to install.

Original launcher or alternative launcher?

Original launcher

Let's face it, we've all used an original launcher at some point. Even if the options offered were not as satisfactory as today, at the time, it was not bad at all. Moreover, unlike the alternative launcher, they are automatically compatible with the version of the phone. They offer useful options for everyday use and allow you to launch the same apps as the alternative launchers, provided you use them well.

Alternative launcher

Alternative launchers are more in demand today since they offer more options. In fact, using them will make it twice as difficult to part with your smartphone. They allow you to access your favorite apps quickly and offer you unlimited customization. Given the number of alternative launchers available today, you will have a wide choice.

Verdict

When it comes to choices, only your will will crown the matter. However, if you choose to keep the original options, consider upgrades. If you want to test alternative launchers, consider choosing one that gives you all the options you want while remaining compatible with your smartphone.

Tips

Feel free to test different Android launchers

Feel free to change your launcher whenever you want. This way you will have a better Android experience, but this practice is only worthwhile if you use the free launchers.

Choose a launcher available on Google Play

Most launchers on Google Play offer more attractive settings and interface. Besides, these launchers always come with a young and trendy style.

Customize swipe gestures

You should choose the of scanning gesture according to your habits. Don't limit yourself to the default launcher of smartphones.

Create shortcuts for your applications

Indeed, you should put shortcuts for your favorite apps. Otherwise, you'll be hanging around looking for it before you can get started. Just think about the right arrangement.

Build on simplicity

The simpler your launcher is, the easier it is to use. Even with its simplicity you can still enjoy many features. But, it's all about choice, we won't hold you back.

FAQ

Is it possible to go back to the original launcher?

Indeed, it is always possible to come back to an old version of the product. However, usually the original is less interesting once the new version is installed.

How to put back the original icons or theme of your smartphone?

To put them back, go to the home screen and choose the screen icon. Then go to "app settings". Then click on "scan screen" or "all apps". And then "disable". Always the same method, but on "Theme" to resume the original theme.

Does the Android launcher allow you to make your smartphone more fluid?

Some allow this functionality just as others do not. So, you should review the part how to choose your Android launcher to know more.

How to organize your applications on Android?

Place your apps according to the order of use. That is, from the most used to the least. Create the most shortcuts without hiding your screen.

How to hide icons on Android?

Some launchers have this feature directly. To do it on others, you'll be able to just uninstall them so they don't show up on the menu anymore.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. How to easily install a launcher on Android?, Nextpit.fr
  2. The best alternative app launchers on Android, Clubic.com
  3. 10 tips and tricks for Nova Launcher Prime on Android, Fr.tipsandtrics.com
  4. 3 free Android launchers to simplify your smartphone's interface, 01net.com
  5. The 12 best Microsoft Launcher tips and tricks to know, A7la-home.com
  6. Launcher - Home | Android PhonAndroid Forum - Tips and Tricks- Android Community, Phonandroid.com
  7. The best Launchers for Android - Free APK Download, Fr.malavida.com
  8. 15 best Android launcher apps of 2020, Androidauthority.com
  9. Next Android article: alternative launchers to test urgently March 92021, Papergeek.fr
  10. What is a Launcher and why install it? | WebStar-Electro, Webstar-electro.com
  11. Best Android Launchers November 2021: which one to choose, phonandroid.com
  12. The 10 best alternative launchers on Android (2021), info24android.com
  13. Best Android launchers for your phone 2021 | Android Central, androidcentral.com
  14. The best launchers for Android - Free APK download, fr.malavida.com
  15. What are the best Android launchers, futura-sciences.com
  16. The best alternative app launchers on ..., frandroid.com
  17. Using Microsoft Launcher on Android, support.microsoft.com
  18. 3 free Android launchers to simplify the interface ..., 01net.com
  19. Best Android launchers 2021 | Tom's Guide, tomsguide.com
  20. Android: alternative launchers to try out urgently, papergeek.fr
  21. Microsoft Launcher - Apps on Google Play, play.google.com
  22. Launcher for Android ™ for Android - APK Download, apkpure.com
  23. Download Microsoft Launcher for Android ..., clubic.com
  24. Download Microsoft Launcher - Customization - The ..., lesnumeriques.com
  25. IN Launcher 1.3.8 - Download for Android APK Free, in-launcher.fr.malavida.com
  26. Microsoft Launcher for Android - Download APK, apkpure.com
  27. BIG Launcher | BIG Phone | BIG SMS for Seniors, biglauncher.com
  28. Launcher 8 free 3.5.9 for Android - Download, launcher-8-free.fr.uptodown.com
  29. Top 11 Best Launcher Android Apps - Updated March 2021, androidheadlines.com
  30. Launcher: change the homepage of your Android smartphone, futura-sciences.com
  31. Nova Launcher 7.0.56 for Android - Download, nova-launcher.fr.uptodown.com
  32. The best alternative app launchers on Android, clubic.com
  33. ZenUI Launcher 6.0.0.88 - Download for Android APK ..., zenui-launcher.fr.malavida.com
  34. 15 best Android launcher apps of 2021 - Android Authority, androidauthority.com
  35. Download Action Launcher for Android (apk) - 01net.com ..., 01net.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Nova Launcher 9
Nova Launcher
Microsoft Launcher 10
Microsoft Launcher
Evie Launcher 11
Evie Launcher
Action Launcher 12
Action Launcher

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