Nova Launcher review
A flexible Android launcher with broad layout controls and optional Prime features.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Nova Launcher replaces an Android device’s home screen with controls for customizing the home screen, app drawer, dock, folders and icons. It is aimed at people who want more control over launcher layout and app organization, including solo users and small teams. The free app includes home-screen replacement and customization features, while Prime adds capabilities for buyers who need more than layout and icon adjustments.
Its breadth is a central strength: users can customize icon themes and shapes, adjust grids, create app drawer folders and groups with Prime, and search across apps, contacts and other services. Google Discover is the listed integration. Prime also enables configurable home-screen gestures, app hiding in the drawer and notification badges. This makes Nova a general-purpose option for people who want layout, discovery and organization controls in one Android launcher; those seeking a launcher for another platform should look elsewhere.
The free app offers a way to start without a paid purchase. Nova Launcher Prime is available as a yearly subscription with Prime features and an ad-free experience, or as a lifetime purchase that unlocks Prime features. According to the vendor’s published information, Prime’s yearly price is not stated there; the lifetime purchase was shown at $29.99 for the US storefront when checked. Choose the free app if its customization controls are enough, and consider Prime for gestures, drawer groups, hiding apps or badges. Support channels include email and community, so buyers who require a different support model may prefer another option.
Nova Launcher pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Adjust the home screen, app drawer, dock, folders and icon appearance
- Search across apps, contacts and other services
- Back up and restore launcher setups
- Where it doesn't
- Prime is required for gestures, app hiding and notification badges
- Prime yearly and lifetime purchases have different feature descriptions
- Designed for Android; it has no listed non-Android platform
Nova Launcher fact sheet, pricing and score →
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