Unless you have a phone that runs stock Android such as the Galaxy Nexus, you're likely to have some sort of manufacturer skin overtop of Google's OS. Such examples include HTC's Sense and Samsung's TouchWiz. Some have opted for the various custom launchers that are available, and given how many there are, its hard to know which is most suitable for you. It would be best to narrow down your search by asking yourself the following questions: are you more into 3D graphics or simplistic designs? Customizable or flashy interfaces? Is your phone capable of running launchers that leave heavy RAM footprints or is it limited to light ones? Are you looking for a launcher that deviates from the norm? The following is a list of launchers that I have enjoyed using, each for different reasons. Note, I used these launchers on my HTC Sensation 4G running Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3.



After searching through many launchers, I realized what I really wanted is something simple that approximates stock android, without needing to root my device and flash ROMS. With Apex Launcher, you have access to many customizations, though some, like the ability to have missed call and SMS counts, as well as more transitions, need to be unlocked via purchase. A fluid simple UI that looks amazing.



The first launcher I ever used, and still one of my favourites. Go Launcher is free, and has even more features than Apex, without the need to purchase a pro version. It is constantly updated and improved, and has a vast selection of themes and plugins available, such as customizable lock screens, useful widgets, etc. Several homescreens filled with widgets and it still maintains a 40 - 70 MB RAM footprint. My only gripe with this launcher is that use of the android calender and bookmark widgets causes the screen to transition randomly whenever I change the orientation (again, this was on my Sensation, and may not affect you). Some themes have been noted to drain your battery quicker, so that's something you may need to keep your eye on. Otherwise, an excellent launcher that is definetely worth a look. The first launcher I ever used, and still one of my favourites. Go Launcher is free, and has even more features than Apex, without the need to purchase a pro version. It is constantly updated and improved, and has a vast selection of themes and plugins available, such as customizable lock screens, useful widgets, etc. Several homescreens filled with widgets and it still maintains a 40 - 70 MB RAM footprint. My only gripe with this launcher is that use of the android calender and bookmark widgets causes the screen to transition randomly whenever I change the orientation (again, this was on my Sensation, and may not affect you). Some themes have been noted to drain your battery quicker, so that's something you may need to keep your eye on. Otherwise, an excellent launcher that is definetely worth a look.

A launcher I always keep to satisfy my flashy 3D needs, it comes complete with various 3D widgets and flashy dedicated homescreen panels, such as a 3D lunar phase panel and 3D view of the earth. Some of the cons include the lack of transitions, moderate loading times should it force close, inability to properly resize widgets, and a hefty price tag at $14.45. Not a launcher for everyone, but it certainly gives your phone a cool 3D look which is good enough for some.

For those looking for something lightweight and different, Rocket Launcher is a good choice. This is one of the lightest launchers I have used, hovering around 25 - 35 MB RAM. It has a dedicated widgets page, as well as homescreen icons that rotate with every subtle orientation change. However, if customizations are your priority, I would stay away from this launcher. Short of changing some homescreen icons, you're basically limited to the layout given to you. Additional shortcuts can be assigned to the homescreen and accessed by pressing the center circle. Since there is a free version, you have nothing to lose by trying it out yourself.

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