Volt vs Raycast
A comprehensive comparison of two popular keyboard launchers. Discover which one is the best fit for your workflow and platform.
Volt
Recommended- Cross-platform (Win/Mac/Linux)
- 100% Free
- Fastest launch time (<50ms)
- Zero telemetry
Raycast
- macOS only
- Free tier + Pro ($8/mo)
- Mature extension ecosystem
- AI features (Pro only)
Key Differences
Platform Support
Volt works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Raycast is macOS exclusive.
Performance
Volt launches in <50ms thanks to Rust. Raycast takes ~150ms.
Pricing
Volt is 100% free. Raycast has a free tier but Pro costs $8/month.
Privacy
Volt has zero telemetry. Raycast collects optional analytics.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Volt | Raycast |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Support | Full Windows 10/11 support | macOS only |
| macOS Support | Intel & Apple Silicon | Intel & Apple Silicon |
| Linux Support | Ubuntu, Fedora, AppImage | Not available |
| Launch Speed | <50msRust-powered performance | ~150msSwift/Electron hybrid |
| Price | Free100% free forever | FreemiumPro: $8/month |
| Extension System | TypeScript/React + Rust | TypeScript/React |
| AI Features | Coming SoonPlanned for 2025 | Raycast AI (Pro only) |
| Clipboard History | Built-in | Built-in |
| Window Management | Built-in | Built-in |
| Telemetry | NoneZero data collection | OptionalCan be disabled |
| Memory Usage | ~30MBRust efficiency | ~100MB+Higher footprint |
When to Choose What
Choose Volt if you...
- Use Windows or Linux (or multiple platforms)
- Want the absolute fastest performance
- Prefer a completely free solution
- Value privacy and zero telemetry
- Want to develop Rust plugins
- Need a lightweight, low-memory launcher
Choose Raycast if you...
- Only use macOS
- Need AI features right now
- Want a more mature extension ecosystem
- Don't mind paying for Pro features
- Prefer Swift-based development
- Already invested in Raycast extensions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Volt better than Raycast?
It depends on your needs. Volt is better if you need cross-platform support (Windows/Linux), prioritize performance, or want a completely free solution. Raycast is better if you're on macOS only and want AI features now.
Can Volt replace Raycast on macOS?
Yes, Volt offers similar functionality to Raycast on macOS including app launching, file search, clipboard history, and extensions. Volt is faster due to its Rust foundation and is completely free.
Does Volt have Raycast's AI features?
AI features are planned for Volt in 2025. Currently, Raycast has AI capabilities in its Pro plan ($8/month), while Volt focuses on core launcher functionality and performance.
Why is Volt faster than Raycast?
Volt is built entirely in Rust, a systems programming language known for performance. Raycast uses a combination of Swift and web technologies, which adds overhead. Volt launches in under 50ms vs Raycast's ~150ms.
Is Raycast or Volt better for developers?
Both are excellent for developers. Volt offers cross-platform support and Rust plugin development, while Raycast has a more mature extension ecosystem. If you work across Windows/Linux/Mac, Volt is the clear choice.
Ready to Try Volt?
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