Launchie 1.6.1 vs Meridian
Side-by-side comparison of features, pros & cons, pricing, and community votes (2026).
🏆 Meridian leads with 463 upvotes

Launchpad Replacement for MacOS 27 Golden Gate
Launchie 1.6.1 is a powerful replacement for Apple's native Launchpad on macOS, specifically designed for macOS 26 and 27 where Launchpad was removed. It restores the familiar app grid, allowing users to organize their applications seamlessly on macOS, offering features like unlimited folders, multiple Spaces for different app pages, and instant search capabilities. Tailored for Mac users who miss the simplicity and efficiency of Launchpad, Launchie provides a customizable, user-friendly interface that enhances productivity and app management. Its compatibility with both the Mac App Store and Homebrew makes installation flexible and accessible. The tool is free to use, with a Pro version available as a one-time purchase, appealing to both casual users and power users seeking more advanced features.
Pros
- Restores the familiar Launchpad grid interface on newer macOS versions
- Supports unlimited folders and multiple Spaces for better organization
- Instant search improves quick app access
- Flexible installation via Mac App Store and Homebrew
- Free basic version with an optional one-time Pro upgrade
Cons
- Lacks integration with native macOS Launchpad features
- Limited details on Pro feature set and capabilities
- User interface may require a learning curve for new users
Best for
- • Organizing large collections of applications for quick access
- • Creating separate app pages for different projects or workflows
- • Replacing lost or deprecated Launchpad functionality on newer macOS
- • Enhancing productivity by customizing app layouts
Pricing: Pricing not verified

Don't let your work go unnoticed. Get promoted!
Meridian is an open-source AI work journal designed to streamline daily work documentation without relying on cloud storage or accounts. Installed locally on your device, it automatically captures and summarizes your daily activities in plain English, providing a comprehensive overview of your work by the end of each day. Its seamless integration with project management tools like Jira allows users to generate draft updates that are ready for review and posting, saving time and reducing manual entry. Meridian is ideal for professionals who value privacy, control over their data, and efficient work tracking. Its open-source nature and offline functionality make it a unique choice for developers, remote workers, and teams seeking a secure, customizable tool that enhances productivity without external dependencies.
Pros
- Local, offline operation ensures complete data privacy and security
- Automatic daily summaries save time and improve work recall
- Integrates smoothly with project management tools like Jira
- Open-source and MIT-licensed, offering customization and transparency
- No account or cloud setup required, simplifying onboarding
Cons
- Limited to users comfortable with open-source and local software
- May require technical knowledge to customize or troubleshoot
- No commercial support or dedicated customer service
Best for
- • Daily work logging for remote software developers
- • Automated project updates for project managers
- • Personal productivity tracking and reflection
- • Secure, private work journaling for sensitive projects
Pricing: Free and open-source software, with no cost for download or use. Users may incur costs if they choose to customize or host locally, but there are no subscription fees or paid plans.