Many Windows users can relate to the frustration of using the built-in search functionality. It often feels sluggish, takes an excessive amount of time to locate files, and the indexing service consistently consumes valuable system resources, leading to faster battery depletion. As a result, some users might consider disabling it, but this raises the question: how can you efficiently search for files, applications, and web content on your PC?
Introducing Fluent Search: The Solution You Need
If you’re seeking a faster and more efficient search solution, look no further than Fluent Search. This lightweight application, at just 80 MB, overcomes the shortcomings of Windows’ default search tool and can be likened to Apple’s Spotlight feature tailored for Windows users.
While features from Fluent Search overlap with Microsoft’s PowerToys Run—another useful tool substituting the Start menu—the standout element of Fluent Search is its robust indexing capability. During installation, you will have the option to install the indexer, which typically completes its task swiftly as you navigate the setup process.
In my experience, the Fluent Search indexer efficiently managed to catalog over 440, 000 files from my C drive and more than 121, 000 from the D drive in mere minutes. The indexer runs periodically to refresh its index and accommodate newly added files, all without being a significant drain on system performance or battery life.
In addition to file searches, Fluent Search enables you to locate:
- Active applications
- Browser tabs from Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and more
- Elements within applications such as buttons, hyperlinks, and more
- Your system settings
- Online content
Once you familiarize yourself with Fluent Search, you’ll find it incredibly efficient to navigate your entire Windows ecosystem using just your keyboard—ideal for maintaining your workflow without needing to switch to the mouse.
Easy Installation Process for Fluent Search on Windows 11
Setting up Fluent Search is a straightforward endeavor. The setup wizard is thorough yet user-friendly, guiding you through various feature configurations to get started quickly.
- Download the installer from either the Fluent Search website or the Microsoft Store. Both options offer identical functionality.
- Run the installer and select your preferred theme, either dark or light, then click Next.
- Choose your desired search hotkey. While the default setting is sufficient, personalization is welcome.
- Click the Install service button to add the optional background indexer service—this is highly recommended.
- Select which applications you wish to include in your searches.
- Continue following prompts until you reach the Privacy section, where you can choose whether to share crash data with Fluent Search. Click Finish to complete the installation.
If you opted for the indexer during installation, Fluent Search will have indexed your files, notifying you of the completed process and the number of files indexed on each drive.
Once installation is complete, you can initiate Fluent Search by pressing the chosen hotkey. You can control themes and other settings via the app’s menu, accessible by right-clicking the Fluent Search icon in the system tray.
Power User Features and Customization Options
Fluent Search stands out for power users with its extensive customizable functionalities. Users can create automated Tasks to streamline various actions.
While these may have a learning curve, the official Fluent Search Tasks GitHub page offers clear explanations. Essentially, users can set triggers, such as specific search terms or key combinations, to execute sequences of actions—be it launching an application, opening a web page, or managing tasks on your PC. Though it may take some time to master, the potential productivity boost is significant.
Additionally, Fluent Search supports third-party plugins that enrich the tool’s functionality. As of now, there are 23 plugins available, offering features such as unit conversion, clipboard history search, color previews, currency conversion, a built-in dictionary, a translator, and much more.
Customization is another strong suit of Fluent Search, featuring various themes and accent colors to enhance your user experience. Opting for visually appealing themes could transform the monotony of a standard search bar into an engaging and attractive tool.
While Fluent Search might seem similar to PowerToys Run, it is indeed more powerful and customizable. Given that PowerToys includes various features that may not be applicable to everyone, I recommend using both applications complementarily. You can disable the PowerToys Run module in favor of Fluent Search for an optimized user experience.
Navigating through Windows can often be taxing, and Windows 11, in many respects, still appears to be a work in progress. However, certain tools like Fluent Search can significantly enhance your workflow and overall usage experience. Whether it’s a small application that improves file searching or a complete suite adding extensive features, embracing such tools can breathe new life into your Windows experience.
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