PowerToys introduces features that integrate so fluidly into the Windows ecosystem that users often forget they are additional tools. It’s time for Microsoft to recognize their value and incorporate them directly into the next iteration of Windows 11 rather than treating them as optional enhancements.
Download: PowerToys (Free)
8. PowerToys Run
If you’ve experienced frustration with Windows Search’s sluggishness and its tendency to prioritize web results over local files, then PowerToys Run will be a game changer. By pressing Alt + Space, you gain access to a swift launcher that instantly locates applications, files, folders, and system preferences.
Simply input exc to see Excel top the list, or reg to access the Registry Editor. PowerToys Run adapts to your usage patterns, bumping frequently used items to the forefront for faster access.
Enhance functionality with plugins such as Windows Walker for swift window switching, BrowserSearch for accessing browsing history, or Everything for rapid file searches. Pair it with Winget for instant app installations, removing the need for cumbersome installers.
7. FancyZones
While Windows Snap allows for basic window organization via Win + Right/Left arrow keys, it falls short for users needing tailored layouts. FancyZones enhances your productivity by enabling customized window arrangements.
For instance, developers can configure a three-column view on an ultrawide monitor: code editor in the center, documentation on the left, and terminal on the right. Switch layouts seamlessly with Win + Ctrl + Alt + number keys, and enjoy the benefit of windows retaining their designated zones even after minimizing, unlike Windows 11’s default settings.
6. File Locksmith
Encountering a file lock by active applications can be a major hindrance, revealing nothing about the offending program. File Locksmith simplifies this by identifying the application holding the file hostage and even offers the ability to terminate it instantly.
To use File Locksmith, just right-click on the locked file, choose Unlock with File Locksmith, then identify the blocking processes. You can swiftly click End task to release the file, allowing for manageable file deletions.
5. Text Extractor
The built-in Snipping Tool in Windows 11 offers text extraction, but the process is often clunky and can falter, especially with small text. In comparison, PowerToys Text Extractor (formerly known as PowerOCR) streamlines this function.
With just a press of Win + Shift + T, you can select the text area on your screen. Whether it be from an image or a non-text-selectable program, the tool captures and copies the recognized text to your clipboard effortlessly.
Although the Text Extractor excels at capturing small or otherwise complicated text, it is currently restricted to English. If you operate in a multilingual environment, the Snipping Tool still maintains advantages due to its broader language support.
4. Always on Top
When juggling numerous applications, you might find the need to keep a specific window visible at all times. Windows lacks a direct method to accomplish this, but the Always on Top feature fills that gap effortlessly.
After selecting the desired window, simply hit Win + Ctrl + T to pin it. A subtle colored border indicates the pinned state, although this feature may have issues with non-standard applications. Nevertheless, it effectively minimizes the chaos of frequent window adjustments.
3. Color Picker
For anyone needing precise color matching, Color Picker is an invaluable tool, allowing users to grab colors from anywhere on their screens. Activate it by pressing Win + Shift + C, then click a pixel to copy its color value.
This tool includes a magnifier for pinpoint precision and automatically saves the color code to your clipboard. Additionally, it remembers the last 20 colors selected, enabling easy retrieval. For designers and content creators, this feature is particularly handy, warranting its inclusion in future Windows updates.
2. Quick Accent
Typing accented characters, such as those in loanwords like “café”or “piñata”, on a US keyboard often requires cumbersome Alt codes or layout switching. Quick Accent simplifies this process by allowing you to press and hold a letter, then hit Space to view all accented versions associated with that character.
The selection menu appears conveniently at your cursor, ensuring your workflow remains uninterrupted. For those who compose in multiple languages or require correct accent usage, Quick Accent is a notable enhancement over traditional methods.
1. Awake
The Awake feature allows users to keep their PC from entering sleep mode temporarily or indefinitely without altering system power settings. Simply toggle it from the system tray when handling lengthy downloads or overnight backups. Personally, I find it essential since sleep mode disrupts my Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, a bug circumvented by using Awake.
Awake offers three operational modes: indefinitely, for a designated time period, or until a specific time. This versatility accommodates both short intervals and extended sessions, and you can choose to keep your screen active or solely prevent system sleep. Once your timer completes, the system will revert to the standard power settings automatically.
From conducting quick searches with PowerToys Run to optimizing your workspace with FancyZones or maintaining your system’s wakefulness during critical tasks, each of these tools addresses significant issues that Windows ought to manage by default.
Until Microsoft opts to incorporate these features natively, PowerToys will remain an essential addition for enhancing the Windows experience.
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