Years ago, I transitioned from Windows to Mac, and in that journey, I discovered a suite of macOS features that significantly enhance user experience. Among these, Spotlight Search, Hot Corners, a built-in file converter, and QuickLook stood out. Their absence was felt deeply upon my return to Windows, prompting me to seek alternatives that could replicate these functionalities. Fortunately, a variety of developers have risen to the occasion, creating apps that bring these beloved features to the Windows platform. After exploring numerous options, one particular application captured my attention: QuickLook.
What is QuickLook?
For those unfamiliar with macOS, QuickLook is a remarkable feature that allows users to preview files effortlessly. By simply selecting a file in Finder and pressing the space bar, you can glimpse its contents without launching a separate application. This functionality is invaluable when sifting through numerous files or comparing multiple documents side by side. The ability to quickly peek into files saves time and enhances productivity, making it a standout feature for any user.
As a smartphone reviewer, I often find myself comparing images from different devices. QuickLook simplifies this task; instead of opening each image in a separate viewer, I can click on the first image, hit the space bar, and navigate through the rest using the down arrow key. This seamless experience is something Windows lacks by default, but the QuickLook app fills that void beautifully.
How to get QuickLook on Windows?
To integrate QuickLook into your Windows experience, simply head to the Microsoft Store and download the app. Once installed, it operates system-wide. Open File Explorer, select a file, and press the space bar to see a preview pop up instantly.
For optimal convenience, enable QuickLook to launch automatically upon startup by activating the autostart feature. This way, you won’t need to manually open the app each time you reboot your PC.
What files can you preview with QuickLook?
One of QuickLook’s most impressive features is its ability to preview a wide array of popular file types. While executable files (EXE) are off-limits, you can easily view documents, images, and media files. Even compressed ZIP files can be previewed without extraction. For a comprehensive list of supported formats, the developer provides detailed information on the app’s GitHub page.
It’s not just about viewing files
QuickLook goes beyond mere file previews; it allows for basic modifications as well. For instance, when previewing a Word document, you can add or remove text directly within the interactive window. Similarly, image previews enable basic edits, such as cropping or using markup tools. When it comes to PDFs, you can select and copy text swiftly, a task that would otherwise require navigating through multiple steps in a traditional PDF viewer.
This efficiency translates into significant time savings. What might take 30 seconds or more to accomplish through conventional methods can now be done in under 10 seconds with QuickLook. Over the course of a day, these small increments add up to a considerable boost in productivity.
Improve your file browsing experience
QuickLook enhances not only the Windows File Explorer but also the Open/Save dialog boxes, allowing for previews of existing files before selection. The app also supports a variety of plugins, enabling users to preview specialized file types, such as CAD files or Android APKs, simply by installing the relevant plugin. Once you incorporate QuickLook into your workflow, you’ll find yourself opening files only when absolutely necessary, leading to a more streamlined and efficient file management experience.
