For countless students and professionals, Windows serves as the quintessential platform for computing. It seamlessly integrates applications, synchronizes Microsoft Office documents effortlessly, and provides a robust environment for gaming. However, beneath its familiar surface lies a treasure trove of hidden features and utilities that can significantly enhance productivity and streamline workflows. By tapping into these capabilities, power users can address some of the more frustrating quality-of-life issues that often accompany Windows PCs.
Control everything using the Command Palette
For years, Mac users have celebrated the efficiency of Spotlight Search, while Windows has lagged behind in offering a comparable solution. Although Windows Search is quick, it has never quite matched the versatility of Spotlight—until now. Microsoft has finally unveiled the Command Palette, a keyboard launcher that empowers users to access a multitude of functions with ease.
To get started, you’ll need to install PowerToys, Microsoft’s suite of utilities. Once PowerToys is up and running, locate the Command Palette app in the sidebar and enable it. Accessing it is simple: just use the default keyboard shortcut Windows + Alt + Space, which you can customize to your liking. With the Command Palette, launching applications, searching for files, switching between apps, and even executing Terminal commands becomes a breeze. For those eager to explore this feature further, a detailed guide is readily available.
Replace the File Explorer with something much better
The File Explorer in Windows 11 has garnered a reputation for being less than user-friendly, often frustrating users with its sluggishness and convoluted navigation. If you find yourself grappling with these issues, consider replacing it with the Files app. Priced at on the Microsoft Store, it can also be downloaded for free from the developer’s website.
The Files app boasts an aesthetically pleasing design, complete with theme color support and a user-friendly interface. Features such as an easily accessible sidebar, tabs, dual-pane mode, and a visually appealing dark mode enhance usability. Additionally, it offers a column view reminiscent of macOS and allows users to preview files without opening them, making it a worthy alternative to the default File Explorer.
Replace the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu
The redesign of the taskbar and Start menu in Windows 11 has not been universally embraced. For those who prefer the classic look, there are options available to revert to previous styles. The free ExplorerPatcher app allows users to restore the Windows 10 Taskbar, complete with full-length app names and the older Start menu.
If you’re looking to customize the existing Start menu, the Start 11 app offers a comprehensive solution for .99. This highly customizable replacement allows users to modify layout, spacing, icon color, size, and more. You can even revert to a Windows 10-style layout while retaining the modern aesthetic of Windows 11 icons.
Transform how Windows 11 looks with Seelen UI
For those transitioning from Mac to Windows who miss the familiar Dock and menu bar, the Seelen UI app provides a solution. This free and open-source application employs web technologies to introduce a menu bar and a floating Dock to your Windows environment, while also hiding the Windows Taskbar by default.
Seelen UI is fully customizable, featuring community themes and plugins that allow users to tailor their experience. You can choose the taskbar’s position, make it transparent, and completely transform its appearance and functionality with various themes and plugins.
Make the dark mode functional again
The dark mode in Windows has often been criticized for its limitations, particularly when compared to macOS. For power users who prefer to work in dark mode or wish to automate the transition as evening approaches, the default settings fall short. Fortunately, Microsoft’s PowerToys includes a utility called Light Switch that addresses these concerns.
With Light Switch enabled, users can automatically trigger the dark theme at sunset or set a custom schedule. Additionally, it provides a global shortcut for instant activation of the dark theme, enhancing the overall user experience.
Embrace the new Snap layouts
Snap Layouts is a powerful yet underutilized feature in Windows 11. While many users are familiar with dragging windows to dock them, there’s much more to explore. By dragging a window to the top edge of the screen, users can preview various layout options, allowing for easy organization of multiple windows on larger monitors.
This feature can also be accessed by hovering over the Maximize button or using the Windows + Z keyboard shortcut to bring up the Snap Layout menu, making multitasking more efficient than ever.
Install and manage apps without a thousand clicks
Installing applications on Windows can often feel like navigating a labyrinth of installation wizards. However, Windows has a hidden package manager known as Winget, which simplifies the process significantly. This repository allows users to install applications with a single command in the Terminal.
winget install Google.Chrome
For those who prefer a graphical interface, the UniGetUI app offers a user-friendly alternative, enabling users to search for and download applications from the Windows Package Manager with just one click. It even includes an option to update all WinGet apps simultaneously.
See your clipboard history
Windows features a built-in clipboard manager that many users overlook. By pressing Windows + V, you can access Clipboard History (though you’ll need to enable this feature the first time). This tool stores everything you copy, allowing you to revisit and select multiple items from your clipboard history.
For those seeking additional functionality, the Ditto app enhances clipboard management by allowing users to customize the number of snippets stored and providing a fast search feature.
Use Focus Sessions to better focus on your tasks
Within the Clock app lies a feature called Focus Sessions, which functions as a built-in Pomodoro timer. This tool allows users to set a timer for focused work periods, during which Windows will suppress unnecessary notifications and alerts, enabling deeper concentration. After a session, users are prompted to take a break, promoting a healthier work rhythm.
Create your own custom shortcuts for anything
Power users often rely on keyboard shortcuts to enhance efficiency and reduce cognitive load. By mastering these shortcuts, you can streamline frequently performed tasks, such as archiving emails or exporting documents. The Keyboard Manager utility within PowerToys allows for even greater customization, enabling users to remap keys and shortcuts to suit their preferences.
For instance, you can repurpose the Caps Lock key or the Copilot key for frequently used functions, or even change the shortcut for Copy from Control + C to Windows + C. The possibilities for creativity are endless.
