The software program is driven by the global hotkey [CTRL SPACE] that opens the run box of the application launcher. Entering a char will show the first five hits in the container below and provide the means to scroll through the rest if there are more than five results.

Besides launching applications and files Key Launch can initiate Internet searches, open bookmarks, start Control Panel items, create a new email message, manage computer shutdown commands or open Internet addresses.

Every application launcher has to face off against Launchy. Key Launch is compatible to Windows Vista which Launchy is not according to the information on the Launchy homepage. Launchy on the other hand is Open Source and available for Linux which Key Launch is not.

Another advantage of Launchy is that users have created plugins and skins for the application launcher while Key Launch stands on its own as of now. Computer memory usage is similar for both application launchers with Launchy using a few additional Megabytes while running.