You can make Windows easier to operate from the keyboard with three free tools that do different jobs: PowerToys Command Palette launches apps and finds actions, FancyWM arranges windows, and AutoHotkey lets you create custom shortcuts and automations. They can reduce how often you reach for the mouse, but they do not require you to stop using it.
What each tool adds to a keyboard-first Windows setup
| Tool | Primary job | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| PowerToys Command Palette | Searchable entry point for apps, files, settings, and commands | Built-in features plus optional community extensions; requires PowerToys to be running and the utility enabled. |
| FancyWM | Arrange and manage windows with a tiling layout | Keyboard-driven window placement, with an adjustment period for people new to tiling. |
| AutoHotkey | Create personal hotkeys, remappings, text expansion, and automation | Simple uses may be approachable; more advanced scripts take learning. |
These are complementary rather than direct substitutes: one finds and launches, one organizes windows, and one lets you define actions that do not already have a convenient shortcut. The workflow and learning-curve observations below reflect Zunaid Ali’s account in How-To Geek’s article, syndicated by Yahoo Tech on August 26, 2026; they are personal experience, not measured productivity results.
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Use Command Palette to find apps, files, and actions
Microsoft PowerToys Command Palette is a searchable launcher and action hub. Microsoft’s documentation lists app and file search, web searches, calculations, Windows Settings navigation, window switching, clipboard history, and command execution among its capabilities. It can also search WinGet to discover and install apps. These features give you one keyboard-accessible place to start many tasks; they do not establish that it will be faster than Windows Search for every person or query.
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Open it and try its query prefixes
- Install or open PowerToys, enable Command Palette, and leave PowerToys running in the background. The default shortcut is Win+Alt+Space; you can change it in the utility’s settings.
- Type a name to search for an app, file, or folder, or use a listed action such as calculating or navigating Settings.
- For a command, type
>followed by the command, such as> cmd. - For a web query, type
??followed by your search. - For a Windows Settings destination, type
$followed by the page you want.
Microsoft also provides an Extension Gallery where you can browse, install, update, and remove community extensions. Extensions add possibilities, but their usefulness depends on what is available and what you choose to install.
#1 Best Overall
- Improved Typing Posture: Type more naturally with a curved, split keyframe and reduce muscle strain on your wrists and forearms thanks to the sloping keyboard design
- Pillowed Wrist Rest: Curved wrist rest with memory foam layer offers typing comfort with 54 per cent more wrist support; 25 per cent less wrist bending compared to standard keyboard without palm rest
- Perfect Stroke Keys: Scooped keys match the shape of your fingertips so you can type with confidence on a wireless keyboard crafted for comfort, precision and fluidity
- Adjustable Palm Lift: Whether seated or standing, keep your wrists in total comfort and a natural typing posture with ergonomically-designed tilt legs of 0, -4 and -7 degrees
- Ergonomist Approved: The ERGO K860 wireless ergonomic keyboard is certified by United States Ergonomics to improve posture and lower muscle strain
Command Palette is the newer direction for users of PowerToys Run. Microsoft Learn describes it this way: “PowerToys Run is getting an upgrade to v2! Check out the Command Palette, PowerToys Run’s evolution.”
Use FancyWM to arrange windows as you work
FancyWM is a dynamic tiling window manager: instead of leaving each new window stacked on top of others, it places windows into a layout. In Ali’s account, Win+Shift activates FancyWM, after which keys such as H, V, and F allocate space for the focused window. Those shortcuts are the article’s reported setup, not independently verified universal defaults, so check FancyWM’s own current settings before relying on them.
Rank #2
- Feel the Wave: Get comfier with Wave Keys, the ergonomic wireless keyboard shaped to help workdays go easier on you
- Type in comfort all day long: The wavy design of this compact keyboard places your hands, wrists and forearms in a natural typing position
- More palm support, less pressure: A cushioned palm rest with memory foam supports you all day long and gives you more wrist support (1)
- Smoother days, your way: Personalize your Wave Keys experience using the Logi Options+ App, where you can choose shortcuts that save time and keep your work flowing (2)
- Ergo-certified: The Wave Keys Ergonomic Keyboard has been designed and tested according to criteria set out by leading ergonomists and is approved by United States Ergonomics
Ali reports needing time to adjust before the layout felt familiar. Tiling can suit people who routinely work across several windows, but it changes how windows are arranged; if you prefer positioning each window freely, a conventional layout may feel more natural.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →For a Windows-native alternative, Microsoft PowerToys FancyZones supports custom zones, monitor-specific layouts, keyboard activation, configurable shortcuts, and cycling or rotating windows. FancyZones is a separate utility, not one of the three tools discussed here.
Rank #3
- Split Design Ergonomic: Split design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position. Arteck Split Ergonomic Keyboard with Cushioned Wrist and Palm Rest, 2.4G USB Wireless Comfortable Natural Ergonomic Split Keyboard, for Windows Computer Desktop Laptop
- Wrist Rest: Soft cushioned wrist rest helps you to rest your wrist and forearm while typing and makes work easier and more comfortable.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the nano USB receiver (stored at the back of the keyboard) into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- 6-Month Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium battery with an industry-high capacity lasts for 6 months with single charge (based on 2 hours non-stop use per day).
- Package contents: Arteck Split Ergonomic Keyboard, nano USB receiver (stored at the back of the keyboard), USB-C charging cable, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Use AutoHotkey for shortcuts Windows does not already provide
AutoHotkey is a scripting tool for creating personal hotkeys and automations. Ali describes using it for tasks such as remapping keys, expanding typed text, and automating actions across apps. That makes it the most customizable of the three: instead of choosing from a launcher or a window layout, you define what a key combination should do.
According to Ali, straightforward uses can require little prior learning, while more advanced scripts bring a learning curve; community scripts can offer a starting point. Current syntax and version compatibility are not established here, so consult AutoHotkey’s current documentation before using or adapting a script. Avoid running scripts you do not understand, especially if they interact with files or other applications.
Rank #4
- 【Wave Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo】The wireless keyboard features a wave key and wrist rest design that naturally fits your fingers and relieves wrist strain. The adjustable stand allows you to set the keyboard to the most comfortable height, making it ideal for long-term use. Note: The USB receiver is located on the back of the mouse.
- 【Wireless Optical Mouse】The wireless mouse is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a contoured shape that fits snugly in the palm and complements the natural curve of your right hand. All controls are easily within reach. This mouse is equipped with forward and back functions, allowing you to navigate the web faster and more efficiently than ever before.
- 【Plug-and-Play 2.4G Wireless Connection】One 2.4 GHz USB receiver can connect both the keyboard and mouse, or they can be used separately. Plug and play—no software download is required. The 2.4 GHz wireless connection offers a strong and reliable signal up to 33 feet (10 meters), without delays.
- 【Automatic Power Saving Function】The ULSOU wireless keyboard and mouse combo features an automatic power-saving function. After 30 seconds of inactivity on the keyboard and 15 minutes of inactivity on the mouse, both devices enter sleep mode to conserve battery life. This greatly extends battery life, and any button press will activate the devices again. The keyboard requires 1 AA battery, and the mouse requires 1 AA battery. (batteries not included).
- 【Wide Compatibility and Dual System Layout】This wireless keyboard and mouse combo is compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11, Mac, and other operating systems. It’s suitable for desktops, Chromebooks, PCs, laptops, and more. You can switch between Windows and macOS by pressing FN+Q or FN+W.
Choose based on the task you want to make easier
- You want to open or find things: Start with Command Palette if you want a searchable keyboard entry point for apps, files, settings, and commands.
- You want windows to organize themselves: Try FancyWM if you are willing to learn a tiling workflow; use a conventional arrangement if you want direct manual placement.
- You repeat an action or type the same text often: Consider AutoHotkey when a custom hotkey, remapping, text expansion, or automation would solve a specific need.
- You only need to remap a key or shortcut: PowerToys Keyboard Manager is a separate Microsoft utility, not one of the three above. Microsoft says it supports key and shortcut remapping, including app-specific mappings, but works only while PowerToys is running, does not operate on password screens, and cannot remap reserved shortcuts such as Win+L or Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
There is no measured time-saving comparison among these tools in Ali’s account. Treat keyboard-first use as a way to shape your own workflow, not as a guaranteed productivity gain. You can start with one tool for one recurring task and keep using the mouse wherever it remains convenient.
Install PowerToys and check its current guidance
Microsoft’s PowerToys repository provides Microsoft Store and WinGet installation routes, links to release notes, and privacy documentation. Check those official pages for current installation and privacy details; the project says the app logs basic diagnostic data, and software behavior can change between releases.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in wrist rest and neutral grip supports, cushions, and positions the wrist for comfort and neutral hand alignment.
- Built-in wrist rest supports, cushions, and cradles the wrists.
- Quiet keys mean typing is smooth, easy, and non-disruptive.
- Spill-proof keys make cleanup fast and easy; Meets MIL-STD-810H Method 504.3 Contamination by Fluids testing for resistance to breakdown when exposed to cleaning and disinfecting solvents such as alcohol and bleach for at least 24 hours
- Caps lock, numbers lock, scroll lock, and F-keys are popular features that make typing and navigating easier and more efficient.
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