The Pixel Launcher is one of the best and most straightforward launchers for Android smartphones, offering a clean and efficient user experience. However, when it comes to customization, it falls short, providing only a limited number of options. Android offers a wide range of customization possibilities, including third-party widget apps, icon grid layouts, wallpapers, and more.
If you’re looking to give your smartphone’s home screen a Pixel-like look with more customization options, here’s a list of the 9 best Pixel Launcher alternatives to try in 2025.
Best Pixel Launcher Alternatives
Lawnchair Launcher
Lawnchair Launcher is a great alternative to the Pixel launcher, offering a similar design with an array of customization options. You can adjust the desktop and app drawer grid size, use different icon packs, blur backgrounds, change fonts, and access features like Sesame and Google Feeds shortcuts, as well as gestures. You can even revert to an older Android home screen layout if you prefer.
Niagara Launcher
For a minimalist and clean home screen, Niagara Launcher is a perfect choice. It allows you to see notifications directly on the home screen with the option to reply, hides pre-installed bloatware, and offers a selection of handpicked wallpapers. You can place your favorite apps on the home screen, while the app drawer is accessed by swiping from the right. At just 5MB in size, it’s a lightweight launcher that focuses on simplicity.
Hyperion Launcher
Hyperion Launcher, launched in 2018 as a competitor to Nova Launcher, brings a Pixel-like home screen layout by default. It offers extensive theming options, allowing you to customize colors for themes, drawers, widgets, icons, and more. You can also adjust the desktop and menu grid size, and enjoy animations similar to Nova Launcher. The premium version includes additional features like custom fonts and a two-row dock.
Microsoft Launcher
Microsoft Launcher offers a well-rounded alternative with a dedicated feeds page for the latest news. It comes with dark mode, customizable icons, beautiful wallpapers, and a range of useful widgets. A standout feature is the ability to create folders in the app drawer, providing even more organization options.
Nothing Launcher
Nothing Launcher, featured on the Nothing Phone (1), mirrors many of the Pixel launcher’s functionalities and looks, but with a unique twist — it uses the “Nothing” font. It includes prebuilt widgets such as the weather and clock widgets. You can swipe up to access the app drawer and customize icons and app sizes as you wish.
Nova Launcher
Nova Launcher is one of the most popular launchers available, offering a wealth of customization options. From widgets to icon packs and wallpapers, Nova supports it all. While it starts with a simple layout similar to the old Google Now launcher, you can modify it to resemble the Google Pixel’s home screen. Explore more with our list of the 15+ Best Nova Launcher Themes & Setups.
Action Launcher: Pixel Edition
Action Launcher, updated in 2017 to the Pixel Edition, provides a layout similar to the Google Pixel. It’s free, but many useful features are reserved for Plus users. It supports Android 10 gestures, dark theme, smart-size icons, and includes a digital wellbeing widget for older Android devices.
Lean Launcher
Lean Launcher offers a minimalist approach to customization with basic options like changing icon size, grid rows/columns, and customizing the search bar. Additional features include a transparent navigation bar, home screen rotation, and desktop locking. It’s a modified version of the Rootless Pixel Launcher and is available on the Play Store for users seeking simplicity.
AOSP ROM Launcher
The AOSP ROM Launcher is a no-frills, straightforward option for those who don’t need customization. With a basic home screen and app drawer, it’s ideal for users looking for simplicity. The major downside is the absence of dark mode, as it only supports light mode. This launcher is lightweight, free from ads, and lacks in-app purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pixel Launcher alternatives better than the default Pixel Launcher?
- Pixel Launcher alternatives typically offer more customization options, allowing users to modify aspects like grid size, icon packs, gestures, and animations. While the default Pixel Launcher is clean and efficient, these alternatives provide enhanced flexibility and personalized features, catering to those who want more control over their device’s look and functionality.
Are these Pixel Launcher alternatives free to use?
- Yes, most of the Pixel Launcher alternatives listed are free to download and use. However, some launchers like Hyperion and Action Launcher offer premium versions that unlock additional features such as custom fonts, advanced gestures, and additional theming options.
Will these Pixel Launcher alternatives slow down my device?
- Most Pixel Launcher alternatives are designed to be lightweight and efficient. However, the impact on performance depends on the specific features and customizations you enable. If you opt for many animations, widgets, or large icon packs, it could potentially affect your device’s performance, particularly on lower-end devices.
Can I get a Pixel-like home screen experience with these launchers?
- Yes, several of the Pixel Launcher alternatives, such as Lawnchair Launcher, Hyperion, and Niagara Launcher, provide a home screen layout that closely resembles the Google Pixel experience. These launchers allow for additional customization while maintaining the minimalist and clean aesthetic that Pixel users enjoy.
How do I install and set up a Pixel Launcher alternative on my Android phone?
- To install a Pixel Launcher alternative, visit the Google Play Store, search for your chosen launcher, and tap “Install.” Once installed, go to your phone’s “Settings” > “Apps” > “Default apps” > “Home app,” and select the new launcher from the list. Afterward, you can start customizing your home screen, grid layout, icons, and more to match your preferences.
conclusion
In 2025, Android users have a wide range of options when it comes to customizing their home screens beyond the stock Pixel Launcher. The alternatives mentioned offer varying levels of customization, performance, and unique features to enhance the user experience. From Nova Launcher, with its classic design and extensive features, to the newer KISS Launcher, designed for minimalists, each launcher has its own strengths. For users looking for more features, customizability, or speed, there’s a solution for every need, whether it’s simplicity, privacy, or unique gestures. The options, such as Action Launcher and Lawnchair, are perfect for those who enjoy the Android aesthetic but want additional flexibility. Ultimately, the right launcher depends on individual preferences, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for everyone who wishes to step away from the Pixel Launcher and try something new.
