Finding the best app launcher for Android in 2025 means balancing style, speed, and features. Whether you use a Samsung, Pixel, or OnePlus phone, a good app launcher for Android can boost performance, simplify your home screen and personalize your experience.
After testing over 30 launchers, these are the 10 best launchers for Android 2025 which are accurate, up to date and ranked by their practical use and features.
1. Nova Launcher 8 (by TeslaCoil Software)
Nova Launcher 8 is one of the best app launchers for Android. It’s fast, smooth, and easy to customize. The latest version of launcher technology supports Android 15 with better animations, new colors, and adaptive icons. If you want a reliable and flexible app launcher for your Android phone then Nova is a great choice.
Key Features:
- Complete layout and grid customization
- Material You dynamic theming (Android 12+)
- Backup/restore options via cloud
- Smooth, lag-free animations
- Option to go ad-free with Prime upgrade
2. Niagara Launcher
Niagara Launcher has a clean, easy-to-use design with vertical scrolling that makes it one of the best launchers for Android 2025. It’s great for one-handed use and helps you stay focused. This smooth and simple app launcher for Android Samsung phones and foldables works perfectly on any screen size.
Key Features:
- Vertical alphabet app list
- Built-in agenda and weather widgets
- Notification previews with direct replies
- Fluid, ad-free experience
- Extremely lightweight (under 10 MB)
3. Smart Launcher 7
Smart Launcher 7 is ideal for users who love automation and organization. Its intelligent categorization system and adaptive icons make it one of the best app launchers for Android for productivity. Its latest version fully supports Android 14 and upcoming 15.
Key Features:
- Auto-categorized app drawer
- Customizable gestures and shortcuts
- Dual layouts for foldable phones
- Adaptive icons and color schemes
- Optional premium version without ads
4. Microsoft Launcher
For those who use Outlook, OneDrive, and Windows, Microsoft Launcher is the best app launcher for Android phones for cross-platform productivity. It syncs seamlessly between PC and mobile and works great as an app launcher for Android Samsung enterprise devices.
Key Features:
- Outlook, Calendar, and To-Do integration
- Glance feed for tasks and recent files
- Cloud-based wallpaper rotation
- Cross-device syncing for Windows users
- Completely free and frequently updated
5. Lawnchair 14
Lawnchair 14 is an open-source launcher that mirrors the Pixel Launcher with enhanced features. It’s widely regarded as one of the best android launchers without ads and a fantastic alternative for those who prefer privacy and simplicity.
Key Features:
- Pixel-style design with At a Glance widget
- Material You theming and icon support
- Dock and app drawer customization
- No ads, fully open-source
- Compatible with Google Feed plug-in
6. Before Launcher
Before Launcher helps you stay focused with its clean, text-only home screen. It’s one of the best launchers for Android 2025 for anyone who wants a simple, distraction-free app launcher for Android that supports mindful phone use.
Key Features:
- Text-only home screen layout
- Customizable app list and categories
- Smart notification filtering
- Ad-free experience
- Reduces screen time effectively
7. Hyperion Launcher
Hyperion combines Nova-level customization with a sleek Material You interface. Its privacy-friendly, lightweight design makes it a best android launcher without ads for those who want premium customization without the clutter.
Key Features:
- Deep theming and accent control
- Substratum and plugin support
- Custom gestures and animations
- Zero ads and bloat
- Regular updates via GitHub community
8. AIO Launcher
AIO Launcher is different because instead of using icons, it shows all your important info in one place. It’s great for people who like quick access to data, bringing news, weather, and tasks right to your home screen.
Key Features:
- Information cards (weather, RSS, crypto, mail)
- Integrated search and system monitor
- Widget-free design for efficiency
- Optional premium features
- Offline-friendly, privacy-focused
9. ReLaunchX (formerly ReZ Launcher)
ReLaunchX, the updated version of ReZ, combines gesture navigation with handwriting search. It’s a fun, futuristic app launcher for Android Samsung users with styluses, and one of the best launcher for Android 2025 for experimental users.
Key Features:
- Letter-based gesture search
- Customizable layout and dock
- Smooth, minimalist UI
- Widget and shortcut support
- Lightweight and battery-efficient
10. Square Home 3
Square Home 3 brings back Windows Phone-style tiles to Android. It’s an ideal permanent launcher app for Android phones for users who love geometric organization and high visual customization. A reliable and unique best app launcher for Android pick.
Key Features:
- Live tile UI with resize options
- Folder cubes with multiple shortcuts
- Custom gestures and effects
- Works well on tablets and foldables
- Free with optional premium upgrade
How to Make a Launcher Permanent
To set any launcher as your permanent launcher app for Android phone, go to:
Settings → Apps → Default Apps → Home App → [Select your Launcher]
Once set, your chosen best app launcher for Android will always open by default.
Which One Should I Choose for My Android Phone
Overall, each launcher on this list offers something special, whether it’s Nova’s customization, Niagara’s simplicity, or Microsoft Launcher’s productivity tools. Choosing the best launcher for Android 2025 depends on your needs as some focus on speed and performance, others on minimalism or deep personalization. Whether you’re using any other Android phone, these options will help you get more out of your device. Try one of these best app launchers for Android and make your phone truly your own.
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FAQs
1. What is the best launcher for Android phones?
The best launcher for Android phones depends on what you like. Nova Launcher 8 gives strong control, Niagara Launcher keeps things clean, and Microsoft Launcher helps you stay busy and neat. All three run smooth and stay ready for Android 15.
2. Is a launcher good for Android?
Yes! A launcher helps your Android look fresh, move faster, and work your way. It’s an easy tool to brighten your phone and make it fun to use again.
3. Is a launcher safe for Android?
Launchers from the Google Play Store stay safe if you pick trusted ones like Nova, Niagara, or Lawnchair. Always check reviews, read details, and guard your phone before you tap “install.”
4. What is the fastest launcher?
Niagara Launcher and Smart Launcher 7 race ahead of the rest. They stay light, glide easily, and keep your phone running sharp — even on older Androids.
5. Do launchers make Android faster?
A smart launcher can wake up your phone, clear the mess, and speed up your day. Try Hyperion or Niagara Launcher to keep your device quick and lively.
