UPDATE: Microsoft’s Command Palette has just undergone a significant update, aiming to boost its performance and usability, but it still trails behind competitors like Flow Launcher. Released as part of PowerToys on October 5, 2023, this latest iteration promises improvements that may reshape how users navigate Windows.
Developing reports confirm a 40% increase in load times and a remarkable 70% enhancement in loading times for built-in extensions. This upgrade is crucial for users seeking efficiency as Microsoft aims to compete with established applications like Flow Launcher. Command Palette now launches almost instantly, allowing users to start typing right away—an essential feature for rapid navigation.
However, early testers note that there remains a noticeable delay when typing in the search bar. Although the initial load is fast, results can lag, which may frustrate users accustomed to Flow Launcher’s quicker response times. Even a minor change in query can trigger a delay, highlighting the need for further optimization.
The PowerToys version 0.93 update has introduced several new extensions, including the notable EverythingCmdPal, which integrates the Everything search engine for faster file searches. Another useful tool is the Video Downloader, allowing users to download YouTube videos directly, a feature that could appeal to many content creators.
Despite these enhancements, Command Palette’s extension library remains limited compared to Flow Launcher’s extensive offerings. Users looking for a diverse ecosystem of plugins may find it lacking, as it currently faces challenges in building a robust community around its extensions.
In a direct comparison, Flow Launcher boasts plugins that provide functionalities like smart home controls and gaming databases, enriching the user experience. Command Palette’s built-in Clipboard History plugin, however, stands out with its user-friendly design, allowing for immediate pasting—a functionality that Flow Launcher requires a third-party plugin to achieve.
As Microsoft continues to refine Command Palette, the competition grows fiercer with the anticipated launch of Raycast for Windows. Beta testing has been underway, and early reviews highlight its superior extension ecosystem and user interface, positioning it as a potential game-changer in app navigation.
The question remains: will Command Palette eventually surpass Flow Launcher? While it shows promise with its recent updates and integration into PowerToys, it seems that the ideal replacement for Flow Launcher may still be on the horizon.
For Windows users eager for an efficient launcher, both Command Palette and Flow Launcher remain free options worth exploring. Utilizing both tools may provide the best combination of features, especially as Microsoft continues to roll out improvements.
Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft refines Command Palette and prepares for future competition in the launcher space.
