Quicksilver for Mac

Used Quicksilver for Mac?

Quicksilver Analysis

AI Assisted Content · June 11, 2026

Not written by CNET Staff.

Quicksilver is a free application designed for Mac users, which significantly enhances productivity by streamlining access to files, applications, and system functions. This utility operates as a launcher, allowing users to quickly open applications, documents, and even execute commands using a simple keyboard shortcut. The interface is intuitive, enabling seamless navigation and customization to suit individual preferences.

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In addition to its launching capabilities, Quicksilver supports various plugins that expand its functionality, allowing users to integrate additional features such as web searches and media control. The application is lightweight and designed to minimize system resource usage while providing a fast and efficient way to manage tasks on a Mac. With its focus on user efficiency and customization, Quicksilver stands out as a valuable tool for those looking to optimize their workflow.

Quicksilver for Mac

Used Quicksilver for Mac?

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: July 16, 2020

Latest update: June 11, 2026

Version: 1.6.1

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Mac

Operating System: Mac OS X

Additional Requirements

macOS High Sierra
macOS Sierra
OS X El Capitan
OS X Yosemite
OS X Mavericks
OS X Mountain Lion
OS X Lion

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 80,174

Downloads Last Week: 0

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Last Updated

User Reviews

3.7/5

27 User Votes

I have no clue how to run this.
Thombar99November 30, 2011
Pros
See above.
Cons
See above.
Summary
I must be stupid but I can't figure out how to work this program. Only gave it a 3 star but I really can't say that's a good or bad rating. Probably bad but then I won't know until/unless I can get some help using it.
Great product
apetermarshNovember 29, 2011
Pros
I never even care about it because IT ALWAYS WORKS
Cons
If there are any I an unaware if them
Summary
I know I have to have so why not have the BEST?
excellent program
marcelonaranjoNovember 25, 2011
Pros
easy and functional
Cons
i don't find any problem
Summary
The app that should be built into the OS System
Ras-xJune 25, 2011
Pros
Easy to install, it is far simpler to ask you to read the Editors review in regard to all it's functions, as he has done it so well. But it works, and works well.
Cons
Sorry, none!
Summary
I have used QS for more versions than I care to remember. It's so bloody simple,and I have had absolutely no issues at all. I notice at least one person reports that the preferences cannot be accessed in 10.6 - I've not had that problem in 10.6. anything, including 10.6.8. Oh, I really haven't got the time or energy to go into all the preference options (yer, not a good review, i know), but you have control over options for application(s) behaviour, define hot keys or other inputs, catalog items in searching, and adding a multitude of plug-ins. The ability to simply assign keyboard shortcuts is not necessarily anything new. What makes QS so good is that all that is necessary is to hit 'Option' 'Command' and it brings up a search window. Hit the first letter of your app (or whatever), or the letter combination you have assigned, and there it is, ready to open.. If (like me) you get to the point of having more apps than you care to admit, it will give you the choice of possibilities triggered by the key (or key combination) you have called up up. Maybe Lion will include some similar function, but it is one of those great apps that really should have always been resident in the Mac OS.
Starting to lose its way on Snow Leopard 10.6
obaptiste_dotmacFebruary 16, 2011
Pros
I've been using Quicksilver for a couple of years now, and find it invaluable as keyboard-based application launcher.
Cons
Keystroke (command-esc) to launch a command window with a Finder selection doesn't work for me in b58. Version b54 is buggy on 10.6 now with the inability to access Preferences. I use b54 again using preferences file copied from a 10.5 installation.
Summary
New users maybe want to look at Alfred in the App Store. Quicksilver development has moved from the original developer Blacktree to Google Code. I tried it but for me it doesn't have all the features I want, namely the ability to manipulate multiple items selected in the Finder. I'll just have to make sure I store an extra copy of my Quicksilver preference files in case I'll need to reinstall b54, and cross my fingers that a future 10.6 update doesn't break it any further.
Installs easily.
veldugoJanuary 17, 2011
Pros
Works well in the background.
Cons
I have found none yet.
Summary
I would recommend this to someone if they needed it.
Does not work on my IMac OS 10.6.5
larry.hJanuary 2, 2011
Pros
Does not work on my IMac OS 10.6.5
Cons
Does not work on my IMac OS 10.6.5
Summary
Does not work on my IMac OS 10.6.5
Quicksliver: This diamond has been turned back int...
freeassociatesJune 5, 2010
Pros
Cons
Summary
...<br />This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />I am a long-time Quicksliver user who is so discouraged by the open-source development process -- or lack thereof -- that I'm going to switch over to Launchbar. When it works, Quicksilver is a seamless, smooth, quick and brilliant addition to my Mac. I can't stand not having it when I work. But its ability to create and save triggers is broken. And without triggers, what's the point? If the developers get that working again, I'll be back. But right now, I waste too much time fiddling and frustrated. The point is to be more productive.Not less. What a bummer.
nice but overtake by Finder OS X 10.6
Wim LangenhoffMarch 28, 2010
Pros
nice & small
Cons
no cons but out of date
Summary
useful in the old days of Macintosh
sear ch gadget
kittens11o21March 1, 2010
Pros
it provide a sea r ch
Cons
the sea r chcould be easier if let u put in more thenone letter at a time
Summary
it a sooso gadget- wiil use on o ccaasion

Developer’s Description

Access applications and personal data by typing abbreviations.

Quicksilver is a launcher utility app for Mac OS X which gives you the ability to perform common, every-day tasks rapidly and without thought. An introduction to Quicksilver's abilities include: accessing applications, documents, contacts, music and much, much more. Browsing your Mac's filesystem elegantly using keywords and 'fuzzy' matching. Managing content through drag and drop, or grabbing selected content directly. Interacting with installed applications through plugins.