MaxLauncher vs Seelen UI

MaxLauncher is a free, open-source tabbed launcher for Windows that opens programs, folders, or commands with two or three keystrokes. Each .mld data file can hold up to ten tabs, with 30 configurable buttons on each, for a maximum of 300 buttons. A favorites bar adds ten configurable buttons assigned to F1–F10. Separate XML-format text files can keep shortcut groups, such as work and home, apart. The launcher supports drag and drop, configurable activation hotkeys, custom themes, multi-launch, multiple instances, and basic multi-monitor use. Users can install it with an executable or choose a portable ZIP version, which the maker says can run from a USB stick or external hard drive. Portable settings can be made read-only to prevent changes to selected launcher data and cache files. The listed requirements are Windows Vista or newer, or Windows XP with Microsoft .NET 3.5 or higher; it runs on 32-bit and 64-bit versions. The downloads page lists version 1.31.0.0, dated October 29, 2021, as the latest release shown.

Seelen UI is a free customization layer for organizing windows and changing the Windows desktop interface. It is designed for Windows 10 and Windows 11 and does not modify system files or fully replace the desktop. Its automatic tiling manager offers BSPWM, Tall, Wide, and Grid layouts, plus float, stack, monocle, and per-app rules. The shell includes a dock, scriptable toolbar, start menu, custom Alt+Tab switcher, and window previews. Background options include MP4 and WebM video, interactive HTML/CSS/JS, music-synced visuals, and collections assigned to monitors or workspaces. Built-in widgets include media controls, clock and calendar, system monitoring, notifications, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The media module supports pausing, resuming, and skipping tracks with most music players. Documentation covers themes, widgets, plugins, and development; community support is directed through Discord, repositories, and other channels. Modified, debloated, or custom Windows installations are not recommended because removed components or disabled services may cause errors.