Despite the privacy issues after the buyout, I'm still using Nova Launcher.

On the work phone I'm using the Microsoft one and it's surprisingly good too. It's not quite as customisable as Nova but it does a fair amount as well. I like the configurable leftmost screen, it's like a powered up widget viewer.

Okay, so I really really like KISS launcher. KISS stands for keep it simple stupid and that should tell you all there is to know about the launcher. It is a search based launcher, you can do quick calculations, one click call/text your contacts, configure additional search engines (eg: you can search directly on YouTube, Maps, Google or just open an url directly). No matter what I try it never satisfies as much as KISS, I find it an hassle to go through the icons searching fot your app. It is available on F-Droid

AIO launcher.

Looks nothing like a regular launcher, but works great for me, can have calendar, news, tasks etc all in one convenient scrolling home screen

Currently using and have used the Niagra launcher for years. To me, ease of use and getting to the apps I need quickly and efficiently is the most important thing about a launcher. I've tried many of the "minimalistic" launchers over time, and this is the only one that truly felt useful. I'd highly recommend it to people who just use their phone as an app launcher, as opposed to having a bunch of widgets on the homescreen or something.

Niagara, Lawnchair, Kvaesitso, Olauncher

Lawnchair Launcher. But the version they have on GitHub.

I would use Pixel Launcher if it was possible to remove this silly, oversized, search box from the home screen.

Ratio Launcher ! Nothing compares, i always end up going back to it . Not most customizable but it being well designed more than makes up for it . I hope they open source it

I use Kvaesitso, and have used it for a while now. I like it! https://kvaesitso.mm20.de/

I don't think it gets bonus points though

Since gestures don't work with 3rd party launchers, I am stuck with the default one. Hope Google fixes this issue.

I've never tried an alternate launcher, do you need to root your phone to do it? And can you easily go back if you change your mind?

OLauncher, it's FOSS, minimalist, simple and available on F-Droid.

I use ADW because when I switched phones my new version of Android didn't have the carousel home screen and it was the first one I found 😅

I use productivity launcher. Its very barebones, works well, quick access to my apps and it's not bright and colorful so my phone is a little less appealing to look at and might reduce my screen time a tiny bit.

I really enjoyed Lawnchair for some time. Been trying Niagara for a few months as well. Lawnchair is my favorite for it's simplicity.

If you want to try something alternative check out "niagara launcher". You need some time to get used to it, but the UX is really clever IMO

before I got a pixel I used Action Launcher to have a clean, stock-enough, look no idea if it's still getting any updates but it would still be my go-to anyday

Niagara launcher is the one. Once you get used to it it's a game changer.

I use the KISS launcher. It's on both Play Store and F-Droid.

Stupid simple and really nice looking imo

Smart launcher for me. The automatic app sorting along with its ambient theme is super awesome. Highly recommend it.