Kandov2.3.1

Kando is a free and open-source cross-platform radial menu that can be summoned near the cursor with a hotkey, allowing you to quickly launch apps, open files, execute shortcuts, or run commands using directional gestures. It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is ideal for users who frequently switch tools, struggle to remember many shortcuts, or want to reduce mouse travel.

Unlike traditional Start menus and linear context menus, Kando arranges items in a circle around a center point. Once you are familiar with the positions, you don’t need to aim precisely at small buttons—just swipe in the corresponding direction to make a selection. The official statement confirms the software is completely free and open-source, with no telemetry, tracking, or cloud services, and menu configurations are stored locally.

Core Features

• Radial Menu:Displays items near the cursor to reduce mouse travel.
• Gesture Selection:Navigate multi-level menus quickly using direction and muscle memory.
• Launch Apps:Consolidate frequently used software into one menu, eliminating repetitive searches.
• Open Files & Folders:Create quick access points for high-frequency documents and work directories.
• Execute Shortcuts & Macros:Map complex key combinations to a single menu action.
• Multiple Context Menus:Display different menus based on the current application or window.
• Highly Customizable:Supports nested structures, icons, menu themes, and sound themes.

Product Highlights

The real value of Kando isn’t just that buttons are circular—it’s that menu positions and directions gradually become muscle memory. Initially, you can select by looking at the icons; after familiarization, just summon the menu and move toward the target direction for noticeably faster operation. It supports mouse, stylus, touch screen, and game controller input, suiting various desktop environments.

The software has no accounts, cloud sync, or data tracking, minimizing privacy concerns. However, too many customization layers can reduce efficiency; it’s recommended to place 6–8 most frequent actions on the first level and gradually add submenus based on actual needs.

Installation & Usage Guide

1. Go to the Kando website or GitHub Releases, and download the Windows installer, macOS DMG, or Linux AppImage/DEB/RPM for your system.
2. After installation, launch Kando and set a global hotkey that does not conflict with other software in the settings.
3. Open the menu editor, create a new menu, and add apps, folders, links, shortcuts, or commands.
4. Place the most frequently used items on the first layer, and group related functions into submenus in corresponding directions.
5. Save and press the hotkey to summon the menu. Start by clicking with the mouse to learn the layout, then practice directional gestures.
6. If different software requires different actions, create dedicated menus for specific apps or windows.

Use Cases

Design & Creative:Centralize brushes, tool switching, and export commands near the cursor.Development:Quickly open terminals, project directories, and common commands.Office Work:Integrate screenshots, clipboard, folders, and frequently used apps.Large & Multi-Screen:Reduce the distance needed to move the cursor to screen edges.Stylus Users:Select functions using natural directional movements.

Free & Privacy

Kando is completely free and open-source; the official statement promises no telemetry, tracking, or cloud services. Settings are saved locally, and no account registration is required. Users can get official builds from the website or GitHub Releases.

User Reviews

Kando is suitable for efficiency-minded users willing to invest time in building a personal workflow. The default menu already lets you experience the core interaction, but the real advantage comes from designing directions and layers according to your own habits. It doesn’t replace all launchers: those who prefer keyboard-driven search may prefer PowerToys Run or Alfred; if you mainly rely on a mouse, stylus, or controller, Kando’s radial menu is more intuitive.

v2.3.1 Release Notes

• Prevent older versions from loading settings files created by newer versions, reducing the risk of configuration corruption during downgrades.
• Fixed an issue where precompiled GitHub builds would not run on some Linux distributions.
• Continue to provide official installers for Windows, macOS, and Linux (x64, ARM64).

Official Resources

• Kando Website
• Kando GitHub Repository
• v2.3.1 Official Release Notes