In the realm of smartphone customization, Best Launchers of 2017 play a pivotal role. They serve as the gateway to personalizing your device, allowing users to tailor their experience to their preferences. But what exactly are launchers? Essentially, launchers are applications that replace the default home screen and app drawer on Android devices, offering enhanced customization options and additional features.
Evolution of Launchers
The journey of launchers traces back to the early days of Android, where basic functionalities were limited. However, with technological advancements and the growing demand for customization, launchers have undergone significant evolution. From simple utilities to sophisticated tools, the landscape of launchers has evolved to cater to diverse user needs.
Criteria for Evaluating Launchers
When assessing the best launchers, several criteria come into play. Performance metrics such as speed, RAM usage, and battery efficiency are crucial for seamless user experience. Additionally, customization options, including themes, icons, and widgets, contribute to the appeal of a launcher. Furthermore, the user interface plays a vital role, with simplicity and intuitiveness being key factors.
Top Launchers of 2017
In 2017, several launchers stood out from the crowd, offering unique features and functionalities. Among the top contenders were Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, Apex Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, Evie Launcher, and Lawnchair Launcher. Let’s delve into each launcher to explore their strengths and weaknesses.
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Detailed Review of Each Launcher
Nova Launcher
Nova Launcher is a powerhouse when it comes to customization. It offers a plethora of options to tweak your home screen, app drawer, and animations. With its smooth performance and extensive feature set, Nova Launcher has garnered a loyal user base over the years. Users can customize everything from icon packs to grid sizes, making it a favorite among Android enthusiasts. Additionally, Nova Launcher provides robust backup and restore options, ensuring seamless transitions between devices.
Action Launcher
Action Launcher prides itself on innovation, offering unique features like Quicktheme and Quickbar. Quicktheme allows users to customize their home screen based on the colors of their wallpaper, creating a cohesive look. Meanwhile, Quickbar provides quick access to apps and shortcuts, enhancing productivity. Action Launcher’s Adaptive Icon support ensures a consistent look across different apps, adding to its appeal. While it may not offer as many customization options as Nova Launcher, Action Launcher excels in simplicity and usability.
Apex Launcher
Apex Launcher is known for its performance-oriented approach, prioritizing speed and efficiency. With its lightweight design and minimal resource usage, Apex Launcher ensures a smooth user experience even on older devices. While it may lack some advanced customization features compared to other launchers, Apex Launcher compensates with its stability and reliability. Its straightforward interface and intuitive customization options make it a solid choice for users seeking a no-frills experience.
Microsoft Launcher
Formerly known as Arrow Launcher, Microsoft Launcher integrates seamlessly with Microsoft services, offering a cohesive ecosystem for users. With features like Timeline integration and Cortana support, Microsoft Launcher aims to enhance productivity and organization. Users can customize their feed with news, calendar events, and recent activities, providing a personalized experience. While it may not offer as many customization options as some other launchers, Microsoft Launcher’s integration with Microsoft services sets it apart for users heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Evie Launcher
Evie Launcher distinguishes itself with its minimalist design and lightning-fast performance. Its clean interface and intuitive gestures make navigation a breeze, appealing to users who prioritize simplicity. Evie Launcher’s universal search feature allows users to quickly find apps, contacts, and files with ease. While it may lack some advanced customization options, Evie Launcher’s focus on speed and usability makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a streamlined experience.
Lawnchair Launcher
Lawnchair Launcher combines the best of both worlds, offering the simplicity of Pixel Launcher with the customization options of Nova Launcher. As an open-source project, Lawnchair Launcher is continuously evolving, with regular updates and community-driven development. Users can customize their home screen with a variety of options, including icon packs, grid sizes, and gesture controls. With its commitment to performance and customization, Lawnchair Launcher caters to users who crave flexibility without sacrificing stability.
Niagara Launcher
Niagara Launcher offers a refreshing take on the traditional Android home screen, focusing on simplicity and decluttering. With its minimalist design and innovative app drawer, Niagara Launcher provides a streamlined experience for users seeking efficiency.
The unique feature of Niagara Launcher is its vertical scrolling app drawer, which displays all installed apps in a clean and organized manner, eliminating the need for multiple pages or folders. Additionally, Niagara Launcher prioritizes frequently used apps, making them easily accessible with a single swipe. While it may not offer as many customization options as some other launchers, Niagara Launcher’s emphasis on simplicity and usability makes it a standout choice for users looking to streamline their smartphone experience.
Each of these launchers has its strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize performance, customization, or integration with other services, there’s a launcher out there for you. Experimenting with different launchers can help you find the perfect fit for your device and workflow.
Comparison of Launchers
To determine the best launcher for your device, a comprehensive comparison is essential. This involves evaluating performance, customization options, and user satisfaction across different launchers. By weighing the pros and cons of each launcher, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quest for the best launcher ultimately boils down to individual preferences. While some users prioritize performance and efficiency, others may value extensive customization options. By considering factors such as speed, customization, and user interface, users can find the perfect launcher to suit their needs.
Unique FAQs
- Are launchers safe to use?
- Yes, launchers available on reputable app stores are generally safe to use. However, it’s essential to download from trusted sources to avoid potential security risks.
- Can launchers drain battery faster?
- While some launchers may have a minimal impact on battery life, others might consume more resources. It’s advisable to monitor battery usage and choose a launcher optimized for efficiency.
- Can I revert to the default launcher if I don’t like the new one?
- Yes, most Android devices allow users to switch between different launchers easily. Simply go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps to select your preferred launcher.
- Do launchers affect system performance?
- Launchers can influence system performance to some extent, particularly in terms of speed and responsiveness. Choosing a lightweight launcher can help minimize any impact on performance.
- Are paid launchers worth it?
- The value of paid launchers depends on individual preferences and requirements. While some users may find premium features worthwhile, others may be content with free alternatives offering similar functionalities.