# macOS Emojis Using Rocket

I don't love the emoji picker built into macOS. I wish it was more like Slack's. Fortunately, a third-party app called [Rocket](https://matthewpalmer.net/rocket/) can supply a similar experience. I find it's better than the system version in three key ways.

# 1\. Invocation

The default keyboard shortcut for the native Emoji & Symbols is:

`Ctrl` + `Command` + `Space`, or `⌃` + `⌘` + `␣`. I have a terrible time remembering it.

The globe key can be set to open it, but that only works on certain keyboards.

In Rocket, simply type `:`. This is also configurable. I changed it to `::` to prevent accidental invocation.

# 2\. Navigation

Emoji & Symbols uses a grid while Rocket uses a list. The list is navigable with just the up & down arrow keys, while the grid requires left & right as well. I prefer the up & down key workflow.

# 3\. Selection

In Emoji & Symbols, when searching, no selection is made. One must either press the down arrow key or use a pointing device. In Rocket, the best search result is automatically selected.

Both support entering the selected symbol via `Enter` or click.

# Closing Notes

Of course, I install Rocket using Homebrew, [https://formulae.brew.sh/cask/rocket#default](https://formulae.brew.sh/cask/rocket#default).

I like Rocket a lot, and maybe you will too.