Compare software

Slingshot vs jgmenu: catalog facts
Slingshot	jgmenu
Best for: elementary OS and Pantheon desktop users	Best for: Openbox, i3 and other window manager users who want a traditional application menu
Free Free and included with elementary OS.	Free Free to use.
Linux	Linux
Integrated with the Pantheon panel and desktop Type-to-search for installed applications All 3 strengths for Slingshot Integrated with the Pantheon panel and desktop Type-to-search for installed applications Ships by default on elementary OS	Works with many window managers rather than one desktop Customizable look and menu content All 3 strengths for jgmenu Works with many window managers rather than one desktop Customizable look and menu content Lightweight enough for minimal setups
Designed for Pantheon and not meant for other desktops	X11 only, not built for Wayland sessions Configuration is manual rather than through a full settings app
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
No account needed	No account needed
Offline features available	Offline features available
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Slingshot github.com/elementary/applications-menu Catalog checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for jgmenu github.com/johanmalm/jgmenu Catalog checked October 2, 2026

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