Raycast

by Raycast · Utilities

FreemiumMacWindows

Extendable launcher that replaces Spotlight.

Official download from raycast.com (opens in a new tab)

Opens raycast.com, Raycast's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is Raycast?

Raycast launches apps, searches files, manages the clipboard and windows, and runs community extensions from one search bar. Core features are free; AI and sync are paid. Check the site for current Windows availability.

Key features

  • App and file launcher
  • Clipboard history
  • Window management
  • Store of community extensions

Best for

  • Keyboard-driven Mac users
  • Developers
  • Replacing several small utilities

Included in starter kits

Install

How to install Raycast

  1. 1Open the official Raycast download page on raycast.com.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Mac, Windows; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Mac · Homebrew

    brew install --cask raycast

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download Raycast safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on raycast.com. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

Raycast alternatives

Other utilities apps, closest platform match first.

All utilities

FAQ

Raycast questions

Where can I download Raycast safely?

Download Raycast only from Raycast's official site at raycast.com. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is Raycast free?

Raycast has a free plan with limits, and paid plans or upgrades for more features. Check raycast.com for current pricing.

Does Raycast work on Mac and Windows?

Raycast is available for Mac, Windows. Check Raycast's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install Raycast from the command line?

Yes, with Homebrew on Mac (brew install --cask raycast). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to Raycast?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full utilities list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.