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Slate vs Nova Launcher: catalog facts
Slate	Nova Launcher
Best for: Android users who want to arrange their app shortcuts by hand	Best for: The long-established customisable Android home screen replacement
Free Free and open source under the MIT license.	Free + paid options A free version is available. Nova Launcher Prime is a one-time purchase.
Android	Android
Places icons freely without a fixed grid Offers an alternative scrolling list layout All 3 strengths for Slate Places icons freely without a fixed grid Offers an alternative scrolling list layout Supports per-app appearance settings and icon packs	The most complete set of home screen customisation options available Backup and restore of a whole layout between devices
Android only	Development slowed considerably after the Branch acquisition Gestures and several features require the paid Prime upgrade
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Not open source
License: MIT	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Offline features available	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Slate github.com/braniik/slate Catalog checked October 8, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Nova Launcher novalauncher.com play.google.com/store/apps/details Catalog checked September 22, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.