Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Quicksilver.
Why Choose Quicksilver?
There are many launcher apps for macOS, but Quicksilver stands apart:
- 100% Free Forever
No "powerpack", no "pro" version, no subscription. Every feature is free.
- No Tracking, Complete Privacy
Quicksilver doesn't phone home, collect analytics, or track your usage. Your data stays on your Mac.
- The Original Mac Launcher
Quicksilver pioneered the launcher concept in 2003, inspiring every app that followed.
- Open Source
Fully open source and community-maintained. Audit the code, contribute features, or fork it.
How much does Quicksilver cost?
Quicksilver is completely free. There's no paid version, no subscription, and no features locked behind a paywall. It's free and open source software, developed by volunteers who believe great tools should be accessible to everyone.
Doesn't Spotlight make Quicksilver unnecessary?
No. Spotlight finds things, but all it lets you do is open them. Quicksilver finds things and then lets you do all sorts of stuff with them โ move files, send emails, control apps โ with just a keystroke or two. Learn more in the manual.
Who are the developers behind Quicksilver?
Quicksilver is open source software, developed by a group of volunteer contributors. View who's contributed to the software on GitHub.
Why don't I see a feature or plugin I expected?
Make sure you have the appropriate plugin installed. Many features come from plugins which you can browse and install from within Quicksilver's preferences. If it's something in the catalog you don't see, make sure it's enabled and scanned.
Have more questions?
See all FAQs โ