The Essential App I Can’t Live Without on Windows

Windows 11 is undoubtedly a robust operating system; however, some users may find it somewhat inflexible at times. Enter PowerToys—a versatile application that enhances your user experience by introducing a suite of productivity-enhancing features. In particular, several functions within PowerToys serve as significant game-changers for productivity enthusiasts.

Download: PowerToys (Free)

1. Customizable Layouts with FancyZones

For multitaskers utilizing Windows 11, Snap Layouts is a helpful feature for quickly organizing applications into halves or quarters. However, once you experience FancyZones, the limitations of the built-in Snap function become apparent.

FancyZones empowers you to devise personalized grid layouts that far exceed Microsoft’s predefined options. For instance, you could arrange three vertical columns with a single large window at the bottom, or even create overlapping window configurations for ultimate desktop control. This feature allows for a level of desktop organization that greatly enhances productivity.

FancyZones Editor window on Windows 11 — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

Moreover, PowerToys allows for nuanced snapping behavior, enabling users to exclude specific applications from snapping zones. You can also customize window behavior when using FancyZones—such as reverting to original dimensions when unsnapped, providing a more tailored experience.

If you’re accustomed to using the default Windows snapping shortcut (Win + arrow keys), FancyZones can seamlessly integrate with this, enabling you to use familiar shortcuts to fit windows into your custom layouts.

2. Tailor Your Typing with Keyboard Manager

Have you ever wished your keyboard could accommodate your preferences rather than adhere to standard settings? The Keyboard Manager feature in PowerToys makes this aspire a reality, offering the ability to remap keys and shortcuts to better align with your daily workflow.

A straightforward example is reassigning less-utilized keys for more practical functions. Personally, I have programmed the Copilot key on my laptop to open Slack and reassigned seldom-used keys, such as Home and End, to execute copy and paste commands. This repurposing increases productivity significantly by putting every key on your keyboard to good use.

Remap keys in PowerToys for PC — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

You also have the option to adjust Windows default keyboard shortcuts, facilitating a more personalized user experience for tasks like capturing screenshots or switching desktops. Reassign cumbersome shortcut combinations to something that works better for you.

3. Quick File Preview with Peek

While Windows 11 has many strengths, it sometimes falls short compared to macOS in certain functionalities. A notable example is macOS’s Quick Look feature, which enables users to preview files without having to open them in their designated applications. Fortunately, PowerToys addresses this gap with its Peek feature.

Once activated, you can select any file in File Explorer and press Ctrl + Space to view a preview instantly. If this shortcut does not suit you, it’s easily adjustable.

PowerToys Peek feature settings — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

The preview window supports navigation through files in the same folder using arrow keys, allowing you to analyze multiple contents swiftly. This feature is a significant time-saver, as it enables you to assess files without the delays associated with traditional applications like Photos or Adobe Acrobat, keeping your workflow uninterrupted.

4. Accelerated Access with PowerToys Run

Windows search functionality can often feel sluggish and limited. PowerToys Run exponentially enhances this experience, providing a quick, efficient alternative for launching applications and executing commands.

By simply pressing Alt + Space, a minimalist search bar appears, ready to help you launch apps, access folders, execute commands, or even perform calculations swiftly.

PowerToys run feature on desktop — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

PowerToys Run allows keyword filtering, enabling users to refine search results for files, folders, or applications effectively. It even adapts to your habits; for example, if you frequently select “Clock”when typing “c, ”it will prioritize that option in your future searches.

Additionally, the web search feature is a standout aspect. Unlike Windows Search, it allows you to access results from your preferred browser and search engine by typing ?? followed by your query, expanding your search capabilities.

5. Organize Your Workflow with Workspaces

Launching essential applications is often one of the first tasks performed after booting up your computer. This typically involves opening a browser, chat application, or specific productivity tools. The Workspaces feature in PowerToys streamlines this process, eliminating the need for manual launches.

With Workspaces, you can group related applications and launch them all at once via a single shortcut. This feature automatically remembers window positions, ensuring that your workspace appears exactly as you left it—no need for adjustments after every session.

PowerToys Workspaces editor window — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

This functionality also permits the addition of folders and websites, ensuring your workspace is fully equipped for productivity from the moment you start your computer.

While numerous third-party applications offer extra features for Windows, PowerToys remains an essential tool for enhancing productivity. It consolidates various functionalities into one comprehensive, free, and officially supported package, making it top on my list for installation on any new PC.

Source & Images