Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsMicrosoft PowerToys is a free, open-source suite of Windows utilities that adds optional tools for arranging windows, remapping keys, launching commands, working with files and text, and other everyday tasks. It is not a single feature: you can enable the utilities you want and leave the rest off. It supports Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1/build 19041) or newer on x64 or ARM64 PCs. [Microsoft PowerToys overview] [installation and system requirements]
What does PowerToys do?
PowerToys adds focused controls and shortcuts to Windows. Microsoft’s utility catalog includes tools for window layouts, keyboard and mouse behavior, launching, file operations, text, and system helpers. The exact catalog can change between releases, so consult Microsoft’s current utility overview for the live list.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Windows and workspace control
- FancyZones lets you define window layouts and place apps into zones.
- Always On Top keeps a selected window above others.
- Workspaces helps open a set of apps in a chosen arrangement.
- Crop And Lock creates a cropped view of a window.
Keyboard, mouse, and launching
- Keyboard Manager remaps keys and shortcuts.
- Mouse Utilities adds mouse-focused aids.
- Mouse Without Borders supports working across multiple PCs.
- PowerToys Run and Command Palette provide ways to launch apps or access commands.
- Shortcut Guide helps surface Windows keyboard shortcuts.
Files, text, and clipboard
- PowerRename handles batch file renaming.
- Image Resizer resizes images through File Explorer.
- File Explorer add-ons provide previews for supported file types.
- Text Extractor extracts text from a selected area of the screen.
- Advanced Paste offers additional ways to transform pasted content.
Display and system helpers
- Color Picker identifies colors on screen.
- Screen Ruler measures screen elements.
- Awake helps keep a PC awake when needed.
- Environment Variables provides a utility for managing environment variables.
- Registry Preview helps inspect registry files before applying them.
These groups describe practical ways to think about the tools; Microsoft’s catalog and utility names are the authoritative reference. [Microsoft PowerToys overview]
Recommended Free Tools
Is PowerToys free, and how do you install it?
PowerToys is free software. Microsoft documents installation through GitHub releases, Microsoft Store, WinGet, Chocolatey, and Scoop, and recommends GitHub or Microsoft Store in its installation guidance. The installer bootstraps the latest stable Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime. [Microsoft installation and system requirements] [PowerToys project repository]
#1 Best Overall
- Sleek and simple design that complements your Surface device.
- Dedicated Copilot[l] key for instant access to new experiences available on Windows 11.
- Convenient shortcut keys including Call mute, Snip & Sketch, Expressive input and Widget[2] for quick and easy access.
- Comfortable and responsive typing experience.
- Seamlessly pair to your device through wireless Bluetooth 4.0 connection with a range of up to 16 feet.
- Check that the PC runs Windows 11 or Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1/build 19041) or newer and uses an x64 or ARM64 processor.
- Choose an installation route, such as Microsoft Store or the official PowerToys GitHub releases.
- Install PowerToys, then open PowerToys Settings to choose which utilities to enable and whether it starts when you sign in.
Microsoft documents per-user and machine-wide installer scopes; choose the one that fits how the PC is managed. The current release number is not fixed here, so check the release page or PowerToys Settings rather than relying on an old version listing. [Microsoft installation and system requirements] [update channels]
Does PowerToys collect data?
Microsoft says PowerToys logs basic diagnostic data. Its General settings page provides a control to enable or disable collection of diagnostic data, and also describes generating a bug-report package. Those statements establish a setting and a basic disclosure, but they do not enumerate the exact fields in the available documentation. Do not infer from this that PowerToys collects no personal data or that all processing is local. [PowerToys project summary] [General settings]
Rank #2
- Compact design saves desktop space and allows for close, comfortable mouse position.
- Optimized key spacing and key travel for fast, fluid typing.
- Sleek, low-profile design complements any workspace.
- Expressive input key[2] for quick access to emojis, symbols, and more.
- Connect up to 3 devices and switch seamlessly between them[1].
Does PowerToys slow down your PC?
There is no universal CPU, memory, battery, or startup penalty established by Microsoft’s cited PowerToys materials. The effect on a particular PC depends on the enabled utilities, their settings, Windows configuration, and what the PC is doing. PowerToys can start at sign-in, and its individual utilities can be toggled in Settings; disable tools you do not use and observe the result on your own system rather than assuming a fixed overhead. [General settings]
Is PowerToys safe to use?
PowerToys is an open-source Microsoft project, but safety also depends on where you obtain it, which update channel you choose, and whether you grant elevated privileges. Install it through Microsoft’s documented channels and use Stable if you want the generally available, tested release. [PowerToys project repository] [installation guidance] [update channels]
Rank #3
Stable or Insider?
Microsoft recommends Stable for tested, generally available releases. Insider builds are GitHub prereleases with less validation; they may include incomplete changes or regressions. Choose Insider only if you are comfortable with that possibility. [Microsoft update channels]
When is administrator access needed?
Some interactions with elevated apps can fail unless PowerToys also runs as administrator. Microsoft gives examples involving keyboard interception and moving or resizing windows, including some FancyZones and Always On Top scenarios. Its guidance is to restart PowerToys as administrator when an elevated app requires it—not to run every application elevated by default, which can create security risks. [Microsoft administrator mode guidance]
Rank #4
- Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which protects your personal and business information by encoding your keystrokes
- 2.4GHz wireless delivers a reliable connection with up to a 15-foot range
- Optical Technology 1000 dpi provides responsive cursor control
- Snap-in transceiver stows conveniently under the mouse LED optical tracking technology
- Windows shortcut keys provide easy access to commonly used functions Media keys for music and video control
Can you use PowerToys on Windows 10?
Yes, if the PC runs Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1/build 19041) or newer and has an x64 or ARM64 processor. Earlier Windows 10 releases are below Microsoft’s listed minimum. [Microsoft installation and system requirements]
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
What if a utility or tray icon does not work?
Check whether another customization app is interfering before concluding that PowerToys is generally incompatible. Microsoft specifically documents TaskbarX as a case that can cause PowerToys not to work until TaskbarX is manually closed and restarted; it can also prevent the PowerToys tray icon from appearing. This is a documented compatibility case, not a guarantee that every TaskbarX setup—or every PowerToys installation—will have the issue. [Microsoft General settings compatibility notes]
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Compatible with Windows 10 / 8. 1 / 8, Mac OS 10.10.5 / 10.11.1 / 10.11.4, Microsoft Windows 10 phone, Android 4.4.2-5.0
- Sleek and simple design
- Optimized feedback and return force.Multimedia key life: 500,000 actuations per key
- Host must support Bluetooth 4.0 or higher. Note : Refer the PDF attached below in Technical Details for Manual and Troubleshooting steps.
- Wireless frequency: 2.4GHz frequency range
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.
