9 Essential Apps to Resolve My Pet Peeves with Windows 11

While I enjoy the overall experience with Windows 11, it is not without its peculiarities and limitations that can sometimes hinder its usability. Fortunately, a range of third-party applications can effectively address these issues, significantly improving the user experience.

9 EarTrumpet

The built-in volume mixer in Windows can be cumbersome, as it requires multiple clicks to access and tends to close out of view when clicked elsewhere. EarTrumpet resolves this by allowing users to place a speaker icon directly in the system tray for immediate access to volume controls for different applications.

The design of EarTrumpet aligns beautifully with Windows’ aesthetic while offering enhanced control over individual application volumes.

Download: EarTrumpet (Free)

8 Everything

While Windows offers search functionality, it often feels sluggish and resource-intensive. To remedy this, I turned to Everything, a remarkably fast search utility designed for efficient file and folder searching that outperforms the native Windows Search.

Everything’s superior speed is attributed to its method of only indexing file and folder names—ignoring their contents and other attributes. This streamlined approach makes searches nearly instantaneous and allows for quicker updates to its index.

Download: Everything (Free)

7 Auto Dark Mode

Transitioning between dark and light modes during different times of day is something I greatly appreciate, particularly as dark mode enhances visibility in low-light conditions at night. However, Windows doesn’t automatically switch themes, making Auto Dark Mode an invaluable tool.

This application enables users to establish a customized schedule for automatic theme switches, eliminating the need to manually adjust settings in Windows every time a change is required.

Download: Auto Dark Mode (Free)

6 ShareX

As an avid screenshot taker, I find ShareX far superior to the built-in Snipping Tool for screen capture, recording, and sharing. This powerful application offers an intuitive experience enhanced by features like integrated image editing, customizable hotkeys, and various capture methods.

The ability to upload captures to numerous services, including Imgur and Dropbox, further elevates its functionality.

Download: ShareX (Free)

5 Revo Uninstaller

Uninstalling applications can leave behind remnants such as files, folders, and registry entries, which can consume disk space and affect system performance. Revo Uninstaller not only effectively removes unwanted programs but also performs deep scans to eliminate all leftovers.

For users willing to invest in its paid version starting at $24.95/year per PC, the software offers features like forced program uninstallation and batch removal of multiple applications for quick system improvements. The free version remains an invaluable tool in any user’s software arsenal.

Download: Revo Uninstaller (Free, subscription available)

4 AutoHotkey

AutoHotkey is my tool of choice for overcoming Windows’ limitations concerning user-defined shortcuts and automations. This powerful scripting language equips users to create scripts that facilitate tasks such as launching productivity apps, correcting frequent typos, or inserting email signatures automatically.

While some users may feel intimidated by the scripting aspect, the learning curve is relatively gentle, and the resultant time savings can significantly boost your efficiency. Many online scripts are available for download, which can be easily modified to meet individual needs.

Download: AutoHotkey (Free)

3 PowerToys

PowerToys introduces a suite of utilities that enhance Windows’ functionality and customization options. Features such as FancyZones allow for advanced window snapping beyond the basic capabilities provided by Windows, creating personalized layouts for better multitasking.

The Command Palette feature is another valuable addition, enabling faster access to files, folders, apps, calculations, commands, and web searches. Tools like Always on Top keep essential windows visible during multitasking, along with additional enhancements for File Explorer.

Download: PowerToys (Free)

2 Rainmeter

Windows 11 desktop customized with Rainmeter

For a more visually engaging desktop experience, I use Rainmeter to populate my screen with features like customizable widgets, skins, and visualizers. With a myriad of options available, it ensures I can always have a visually dynamic workspace. Beyond aesthetics, Rainmeter also contributes to productivity through its system monitors and quick access to apps, files, and folders.

Download: Rainmeter (Free)

1 NanaZip

Although Windows comes with default file compression features, they often feel outdated and slow. NanaZip serves as an excellent alternative, offering a modern file archiving solution that easily integrates into the context menu. This software not only provides superior performance but also supports a wider variety of archive formats—all while being open-source and free of advertisements.

Download : NanaZip (Free)

One of the many advantages of Windows 11 lies in its high customizability. Users are not constrained to the default applications if they do not meet their needs. With the addition of these utilities, it’s possible to transform Windows 11 into a more efficient and tailored operating environment.

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