The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Start in the folder most likely to contain the file, search for a distinctive part of its name, then use File Explorer’s Search options to narrow the results. If you need to search the whole PC or match words inside a document, Windows indexing and the search location determine what can be found.
Choose where Windows searches
Open File Explorer and go to the folder most likely to contain the file. Enter a name or keyword in the search box. File Explorer searches that folder and its child folders by default, which keeps a focused search from expanding unnecessarily. Microsoft describes searching This PC as slower but more in-depth when you do not know the location. Microsoft’s Windows search guide also documents taskbar search for documents on the PC and OneDrive.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which search location should you use?
| Search location | Best for | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Likely folder in File Explorer | A file you expect in a particular folder or its subfolders | Searches the current folder and its children by default. |
| This PC in File Explorer | A file whose location on the computer is unknown | Broader, more in-depth searching; Microsoft says it can be slower. |
| Taskbar search | A document name or a keyword from a document, including items on OneDrive | Can return documents from the PC and OneDrive. |
Search by filename, then refine with filters
Start with the most distinctive word or part of the filename you remember. If that produces too many results, use File Explorer’s Search options toolbar to narrow them. Available refinements include date modified, kind (such as document, picture, or video), size, system files, and zipped files. Choose one likely filter at a time; an incorrect date range or file-kind guess can hide the file you want. Microsoft describes these File Explorer refinements in its Microsoft Search guidance.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Find a file by date, size, or type
- In File Explorer, open the likely folder—or choose This PC if you need broader coverage.
- Enter a distinctive filename fragment in the search box.
- Open Search options and choose a relevant refinement, such as date modified, kind, or size.
- Review the narrowed results before adding another filter.
If you are unsure of a file’s format, turn on visible extensions in File Explorer: select View > Show > File name extensions. An extension identifies a file format, but the extension alone does not establish that the file’s contents are indexed. Microsoft explains common extensions in its Windows file-extension guide.
#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.
Find a file when you remember a word inside it
Search for a distinctive word from the document rather than its filename. Microsoft documents taskbar search for a keyword from a document’s contents, and Windows can index text inside files. Full-text search depends on the file type’s indexing settings: if that type is set to index properties only, Windows can use its properties but will not find matches from inside its text. Microsoft’s Windows search guide describes keyword search, while its indexing guide explains content indexing.
Check indexing if a known file is missing
Windows Search uses an index of filenames, paths, properties, and—when enabled and supported—file text. The index lets Windows look up indexed terms and properties. New or changed files may take time to appear: Microsoft says initial indexing can take up to a couple of hours, and indexing continues in the background as data changes. This is a duration estimate, not a guaranteed completion time. Microsoft Support: Search indexing in Windows.
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
Review search coverage and file-type settings
- Open Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows.
- Review the selected indexing mode. Classic indexes Documents, Pictures, Music, and the desktop by default. Enhanced indexes the entire PC, including user folders and files, for broader coverage; Microsoft notes that it may use more resources.
- If a filename search works but a word inside the file does not, check whether that file type is configured to index both properties and contents rather than properties only.
- Allow indexing time after changing coverage or adding files; initial indexing can take up to a couple of hours according to Microsoft.
Are there typed Windows Search operators?
For a reliable File Explorer workflow, use the Search options interface for filters rather than assuming a typed query grammar. Filters such as date modified, kind, and size are documented as File Explorer controls. The Microsoft guidance cited here does not establish one typed-operator syntax guaranteed across Windows 10 and Windows 11 File Explorer versions. Syntax shown for Bing or SharePoint belongs to those separate search products and should not be treated as a File Explorer promise.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsA Windows 11 note for Copilot+ PCs
On supported file types, Copilot+ PCs can use semantic indexing alongside traditional indexing. Microsoft says semantic-index data is stored locally and recommends initial indexing while the PC is plugged in. Semantic results may include related concepts rather than only exact keyword matches, so they can broaden what appears in search. This is a device-specific capability, not a description of search behavior on every Windows PC. See Microsoft’s guide to finding files and apps in Windows.
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*
Windows 10 support status
Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Its Windows search guidance applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11, but the support-status date matters if you are using Windows 10 and relying on current security support. Microsoft Support.
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
Rank #4
- Fluid Typing Experience: Laptop-like profile with spherically-dished keys shaped for your fingertips delivers a fast, fluid, precise and quieter typing experience
- Automate Repetitive Tasks: Easily create and share time-saving Smart Actions shortcuts to perform multiple actions with a single keystroke with the Logi Options+ app (1)
- Smarter Illumination: Backlit keyboard keys light up as your hands approach and adapt to the environment; Now with more lighting customizations on Logi Options+ (1)
- More Comfort, Deeper Focus: Work for longer with a solid build, low-profile design and an optimum keyboard angle that is better for your wrist posture
- Multi-Device, Multi OS Bluetooth Keyboard: Pair with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Googlebook OS) via Bluetooth Low Energy or included Logi Bolt USB receiver (2)
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.
