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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Open PowerToys Settings and use the search box to find an option. To make PowerToys launch when you sign in to Windows, go to General and switch on Run at startup. To change a utility’s hotkey, edit that utility’s settings; to change what a key or key combination does, use Keyboard Manager.
Find a PowerToys setting
- Open PowerToys Settings.
- Type a keyword into the search box at the top. Results filter as you type.
- Select a result to jump to that setting. Press Enter or select Show all results to view matching results.
Microsoft documents this search behavior in its PowerToys General settings guide. Settings and available utilities can vary by installed version, so check the labels in your copy of PowerToys.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Make PowerToys start when you sign in
- In PowerToys Settings, open General.
- Find Run at startup and switch it on or off.
When enabled, PowerToys starts automatically when you log in to Windows. Microsoft describes the setting this way: “If activated, PowerToys will start automatically when you log in to Windows.” (Microsoft Learn, Configure PowerToys General Settings for Windows.)
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Change a utility’s activation shortcut
An activation shortcut opens a particular PowerToys utility. Change it on that utility’s own settings page rather than looking for one universal PowerToys hotkey.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
- Open the settings page for the utility you want to launch.
- Find its Activation shortcut control and set the key combination you want.
For example, Microsoft documents an activation shortcut for PowerToys Run and a separate one for Command Palette. The documented defaults are Alt+Space for PowerToys Run and Win+Alt+Space for Command Palette; verify the current value in your installed settings rather than assuming the default has not changed.
If the launcher shortcut does nothing
Make sure the utility is enabled and PowerToys is running in the background. PowerToys Run requires both; Command Palette must likewise be enabled and running. Their documentation also describes fullscreen-related options: PowerToys Run can ignore its shortcut in fullscreen mode, and Command Palette has fullscreen settings. Check those options if the hotkey fails only while a fullscreen app is active. (PowerToys Run; Command Palette overview; Command Palette settings.)
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
Remap a key or shortcut with Keyboard Manager
Use Keyboard Manager when you want a key or key combination to act differently—not merely to open a PowerToys utility. It supports key-to-key remapping, shortcut remapping, and mapping a key to a text sequence. See Microsoft’s Keyboard Manager guide for the available controls.
- Open Keyboard Manager in PowerToys Settings.
- Choose the key- or shortcut-remapping control and define the original input and its replacement.
- Set the target application if the change should apply only there. Leave the target application blank for a remap that applies globally across Windows.
- Save the remap and test it in the intended scope.
Choose the scope before saving: a global remap can affect keyboard use across Windows, while an app-targeted remap is limited to the application you specify.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Resolve shortcut conflicts
If PowerToys reports that shortcuts conflict, review the listed bindings in the conflict notice. Depending on the conflict, you can reassign a shortcut, ignore the conflict, or remove the conflicting binding. General settings include conflict detection for shortcuts used by multiple PowerToys modules. (Microsoft Learn: General settings.)
When administrator mode may be needed
Some interactions with elevated applications may require PowerToys to run as administrator. Do not elevate it by default just to change an ordinary setting or shortcut. If a particular utility cannot interact with an elevated app, check that utility’s documentation for its requirements; Microsoft documents using General > Restart as administrator when prompted or enabling Always run as administrator when needed. (Run PowerToys in Administrator Mode.)
Rank #4
- 【Dreamy Rainbow Gaming Keyboard】K521 Gaming Keyboard Adopts a Different LED Backlight Design, Upgraded on the Traditional LED Backlight Effect, Making the Light More Penetrating, Giving You a More Dazzling Visual Effect, Making Your Gaming Process More Enjoyable
- 【One Touch Opens & Visual Feast】The K521 Red Dragon Keyboard has a One-Touch on/off Lighting Button for Added Convenience. It also has a Three-Position Adjustable Breathing Mode and a Four-Position Adjustable Brightness Lighting Mode
- 【Mechanical Feeling & Fast Tapping】The PC Keyboard Keys are Designed for Mechanical Feeling, Giving You a Better Feel During Use and the Ability to Trigger Keys Quickly, Allowing You to Win All Your Games
- 【19 Keys Anti-Ghosting Keyboard】Anti-Ghosting Ensures Every Button Can Be Triggered. This Allows You to Trigger Key Combinations In The Game Accurately, And Each Skill Can Be Accurately Released to Increase Your Winning Rate. Redragon K521 Will Be Your Perfect Partner
- 【12 Multimedia Combination Keys】The K521 Wired Gaming Keyboard is Equipped with 12 Multimedia Keys That Can Greatly Enhance Your Gaming/Office Efficiency and Make It More Convenient to Use
Back up settings before broad changes
PowerToys General settings provide a location for saving settings and a way to restore an existing backup. Use those controls if you want a recovery point before making a set of configuration changes. (Microsoft Learn: General settings.)
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
