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Alfred vs Microsoft PowerToys

The verdict

If you are a Mac user looking for robust automation and deep customization, Alfred is your best choice. Its powerful workflows and fast performance cater to advanced users who love to fine-tune their system with a variety of tasks. However, you'll need to purchase the Powerpack to unlock its most effective features, which is a worthwhile investment if you rely heavily on productivity enhancements.

On the other hand, if you're using Windows and want a collection of handy utilities to boost efficiency, Microsoft PowerToys is the way to go. It offers a variety of tools, including a keyboard launcher and features like FancyZones for window management. This is ideal for users who appreciate a combination of functionalities rather than a single, focused app. Just keep in mind that it's not designed for those who prefer a dedicated solution or anyone outside the Windows ecosystem.

Side-by-side comparison of Alfred, Microsoft PowerToys
AlfredMicrosoft PowerToys
PricingFrom GBP 34Free
Platformsmacwindows
RatingNo reviewsNo reviews
AutomationNativeNative
Extensions / pluginsNativeNot supported
Keyboard shortcutsNativeNative
Open sourceNot supportedNative
ThemingNativeNot supported
Pros
  • Mature, stable, and very fast
  • Powerful Workflow automations
  • One-time purchase, no subscription
  • Large community library of workflows
  • Many genuinely useful utilities in one install
  • FancyZones brings real tiling to Windows
  • PowerToys Run is a fast keyboard launcher
  • Free, open source, and maintained by Microsoft
Cons
  • Mac only
  • Best features need the paid Powerpack
  • No built-in AI, unlike newer launchers
  • Windows only
  • Grab-bag of tools rather than one focused app
  • Some modules are more polished than others
Ideal for
  • mac_power_users
  • automation_enthusiasts
  • subscription_averse_buyers
  • windows_power_users
  • keyboard_driven_workflows
  • open_source_advocates
Avoid if
  • want_built_in_ai
  • need_cross_platform
  • want_a_single_purpose_tool
  • not_on_windows
Alfred

The veteran Mac launcher with deep workflows

Visit Alfred
Microsoft PowerToys

Power-user utilities Windows should ship with

Visit Microsoft PowerToys
Have a specific use case? Get a tailored recommendation