KRunner as a Linux alternative to PowerToys Run
Updated
Our verdict
KRunner is a solid replacement for PowerToys Run for users who already run KDE Plasma. It offers a keyboard‑only workflow, fuzzy search for apps, files, and calculations, and can execute shell scripts or custom commands via plugins. It integrates naturally with the desktop and starts quickly, so it matches the core needs of PowerToys Run users who are comfortable with KDE. If you use another desktop environment, you’ll need a separate launcher, but KRunner still covers most of the typical use cases.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.31.0
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Keyboard shortcut to open the launcher
- Fuzzy search for applications, files, and calculations
- Ability to launch applications and open directories
- Support for executing custom shell commands
- Fast response time
What is different
- KRunner is tied to KDE Plasma; other DEs need different launchers
- No built‑in support for Windows‑specific scripts or PowerToys‑style plugins
- PowerToys Run offers a dedicated Windows‑only UI, while KRunner uses KDE widgets
- KRunner does not natively import PowerToys Run configuration files
- PowerToys Run includes a calculator with unit conversion; KRunner also has this but via plugins
Opening your PowerToys Run files
PowerToys Run does not use external configuration files that can be imported into KRunner. The two programs store settings in different formats (Windows registry vs. KDE config files). Therefore, there is no direct way to export PowerToys Run settings to KRunner; users must re‑configure manually.
Switching from PowerToys Run to KRunner, step by step
- 1. Install KDE Plasma if not already present. 2. Install KRunner via your distribution’s package manager (e.g., sudo apt install krunner). 3. Open KRunner with the default shortcut (Alt+Space) or set a custom one in System Settings → Shortcuts. 4. Add any custom actions by creating a .desktop file or using the Plugin Manager. 5. Verify that apps, files, and calculations work as expected. 6. Disable or uninstall PowerToys Run to avoid conflicts.
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Key features of KRunner
- Launch apps by name or path
- Execute shell commands
- Perform calculations and unit conversions
- Search files and folders
- Open URLs and perform web searches
- Plugin system for custom actions
- Keyboard‑only workflow
- Fast startup and low resource usage
How to install KRunner on Linux
sudo apt install krunnersudo apt install kf6-krunnersudo dnf install kf5-krunnersudo pacman -S krunnersudo zypper install kf6-krunner3 other alternatives to PowerToys Run
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