Raycast is revolutionizing how Mac users approach productivity. This AI-powered launcher combines speed, automation, and powerful search to help you get more done with less effort. Whether you’re launching apps, managing snippets, or using ChatGPT natively, Raycast puts everything at your fingertips—literally.
In this article, we’ll explore how Raycast works, its standout features, and why it’s quickly becoming an essential app for professionals, developers, and students alike.
What is Raycast?
Raycast is a customizable and extensible launcher app designed for macOS. Think of it as Spotlight on steroids, packed with automation features, built-in commands, and seamless integrations. Whether you’re looking to open files, launch apps, run scripts, or interact with AI tools, Raycast puts everything just one keyboard shortcut away.
Launched in October 2020, Raycast has grown into a powerful platform with a vibrant developer community and over 1,000 extensions available in its store. From task automation to AI assistance, Raycast is built to supercharge your productivity.
How Does Raycast Work?
Raycast is accessed by pressing a global shortcut key (default: Cmd + K or Option + Space). This brings up a clean, lightweight command bar where you can:
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Search for and launch apps
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Execute system commands
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Manage windows
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Perform quick calculations
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Use built-in AI tools
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And much more…
Its interface is keyboard-first, inspired by the command line, making it extremely fast and intuitive. You type, filter results instantly, and hit Enter to run the selected command.
Key Features of Raycast
Here are the core functionalities that make Raycast one of the best Mac productivity tools available:
1. 🔍 Universal Search
Search apps, files, contacts, clipboard history, and web content all from one place. No need to open different apps or tabs.
2. ⚡ AI Integration
Raycast supports multiple AI models like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Anthropic Claude. You can:
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Ask questions directly
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Chat with AI in a floating window
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Highlight text and apply AI commands like “rewrite”, “summarize” or “fix grammar”
No need to install separate AI apps—everything’s built in.
3. 📋 Clipboard History
Access everything you’ve copied—text, links, email addresses—even from days ago. Perfect for students, writers, and developers.
4. 🧠 Snippets and Text Expansion
Define custom snippets and quickly insert commonly used code, phrases, or responses using keywords. Save time, reduce repetition.
5. 📐 Window Management
Resize, snap, or rearrange windows with simple keyboard commands. Switch between light/dark mode or put your Mac to sleep instantly.
6. 🔢 Calculator, Converter & World Clock
Do quick math, convert units or currencies, and check time zones—all without opening a browser or separate app.
7. 🛒 Raycast Store
Explore over 1,000 extensions for apps like Notion, Spotify, Figma, GitHub, Google Calendar, and more. These extensions are developed by the community and are plug-and-play.
8. 🧩 Developer Platform
Use the Raycast API to build your own extensions with JavaScript, TypeScript, Swift, Rust, and more. Share your creations in the Store to help others boost their workflows.
9. 🔐 Privacy-Focused
Raycast stores all data locally on your device. No tracking, no data sent to servers—just speed and security.
Who Is Raycast For?
Raycast is ideal for:
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Developers: Launch apps, run scripts, and automate workflows.
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Designers: Quickly access creative tools, assets, and inspiration boards.
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Writers and Students: Manage research, snippets, and AI-assisted writing.
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Productivity enthusiasts: Save time and effort across daily tasks.
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Teams: Share extensions, links, and common workflows.
Whether you’re managing a busy schedule, juggling multiple apps, or looking to minimize distractions, Raycast helps you stay focused and in control.
Pricing Plans
Raycast is free to use with all core features included. For advanced functionality, the Pro plan starts at $8/month, which includes:
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Cloud syncing
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Team collaboration tools
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Unlimited AI usage
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Custom themes and branding
For teams, there are collaborative options to share extensions, hotkeys, and workflows—perfect for agencies or dev teams.
What Users Say About Raycast
“Raycast changed the way I work. I launch everything instantly and the AI tools are incredibly helpful.” – Software Developer, New York
“It’s like Spotlight, Alfred, and AI combined into one perfect Mac app.” – Designer, London
“The store and snippets alone make this worth installing. The AI features are just the cherry on top.” – Productivity Coach, Toronto
Final Thoughts
If you’re a Mac user looking to save time, reduce distractions, and work smarter—not harder—Raycast is the tool you need. With AI features, automation support, and blazing speed, it brings together the best parts of Spotlight, Alfred, and AI into one powerful launcher.
Whether you’re a solo professional or part of a growing team, give Raycast a try and take your productivity to the next level.
We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.