Windows 11 has brought a fresh perspective to user experience, yet the File Explorer remains somewhat unremarkable in its basic form. However, a selection of third-party add-ons can elevate this essential tool into a robust utility, enhancing productivity and organization while introducing a few delightful features. Below are the add-ons that have become indispensable in my daily workflow.
5 TeraCopy
Great for transferring large files and folders
File Explorer’s capabilities for copying or moving files, particularly across external drives, can be limiting. When handling multiple transfers, performance often takes a hit. Enter TeraCopy, an add-on that streamlines bulk file movements. This tool queues transfer jobs, dynamically adjusts block sizes for efficiency, and can even skip problematic files, ensuring that the rest of your transfer proceeds smoothly. With TeraCopy, you can set up transfers before bedtime and wake up to find them completed. A free version is available, but for those seeking enhanced features, a paid option exists.
4 Peek
Get a better look at your files
When faced with numerous similarly named documents, the traditional method of opening each file can be tedious. Peek, part of the PowerToys suite, offers a solution by allowing users to preview images or documents without fully opening them. After enabling Peek and selecting a file in File Explorer, a simple press of Ctrl + Space reveals a full-size preview. This feature works seamlessly even in preview mode, enabling users to navigate through files using arrow keys while viewing previews in real-time.
3 DropIt
Get your files organized in minutes
While DropIt is not strictly a File Explorer add-on, it integrates effectively with the application to facilitate file organization. By setting up specific rules for files dropped onto its icon, users can automate the sorting process. For instance, by designating a rule to move all MP3 files into a designated music folder, every time music files are dropped onto the icon, they are automatically sorted. DropIt also allows for various actions, such as renaming or compressing files, making it a versatile tool for file management.
2 Image Resizer
Resizing images with three clicks
For those who frequently work with images, the Image Resizer add-on from PowerToys is a game-changer. Once activated, it adds a Resize with Image Resizer option to the right-click context menu in File Explorer. Users can choose from default resizing options or create custom sizes, select encoders, and adjust image quality. The ability to resize images in bulk with just a few clicks makes this tool invaluable for anyone dealing with visual content.
1 PowerRename
Bulk renaming for the masses
Renaming multiple files in File Explorer can be a laborious task, but PowerRename from PowerToys simplifies this process significantly. Once enabled, it introduces a Rename with PowerRename option in the right-click menu. This tool offers advanced features, allowing users to delete specific words, concatenate names, or replace text across multiple files. For example, it can automatically append the creation date to filenames, enhancing organization and retrieval.
These File Explorer add-ons, while not essential, can significantly enhance your productivity in Windows 11. They offer opportunities to reclaim time, improve efficiency, and even inject a bit of enjoyment into your daily computing tasks.
