Mac users have long enjoyed the luxury of seamless searching with Spotlight, a built-in feature that allows them to effortlessly open applications, locate files, perform calculations, and browse the web. In contrast, Windows users have relied on the Search Bar, which, while functional, does not quite match the versatility of its Mac counterpart.
Enter Command Palette, a newly introduced keyboard launcher tailored for developers and power users. This innovative tool replaces the previous PowerToys Run feature and brings a wealth of enhancements, including the ability to execute commands, search the web, find files, and create custom bookmarks along with global keyboard shortcuts.
How to install and enable Command Palette
Command Palette is part of PowerToys, a suite of dynamic applications and utilities developed by Microsoft. These open-source tools receive updates at a pace that surpasses traditional built-in Windows features. Users can easily download and install PowerToys from the GitHub page, the Microsoft Store, or via the Windows Package Manager.
After installing or updating PowerToys to version 0.9 or higher, users should open the application and navigate to the Command Palette option in the sidebar. If the app window is not visible, a quick right-click on the PowerToys icon in the Windows taskbar will reveal the Settings option.
Within the Command Palette screen, ensure that the extension is enabled. The default keyboard shortcut for accessing Command Palette is Windows + Alt + Space, but users have the flexibility to modify it to a more convenient combination.
Customizing the Command Palette shortcut and other settings
To customize the Command Palette, activate it using the designated keyboard shortcut and click the Settings button located in the bottom-right corner. Here, users can remap the activation key to a simpler combination, such as Alt + Space.
Additionally, this settings menu allows for further customization of Command Palette’s behavior. One particularly useful feature is the ability to use the Backspace key to navigate back, although individual preferences may vary.
System settings and file search
Upon opening Command Palette, users can begin typing to access a range of functionalities typical of a keyboard launcher. This includes the ability to open applications and search for files and folders. For file searches, it is advisable to first select the File search option by typing “file“, followed by the desired search term. Entering the “=” key switches the user into calculator mode, providing quick access to calculations.
Switch between open windows
Command Palette also features a built-in window switcher, displaying all open windows across various desktops and monitors. By typing the less-than symbol (<), users can view a comprehensive list of all active windows and applications. This list can be navigated by scrolling or searching for a specific app or window name, allowing for swift transitions with a simple press of Enter.
Use Bookmarks to open any folder or website
One of the standout features of Command Palette is its bookmarking capability. While file search is undeniably beneficial, users often find themselves repeatedly accessing the same folders and files throughout the day. For instance, quickly opening the Screenshots or Downloads folders becomes a breeze with bookmarks.
To create a bookmark, users can navigate to the desired folder, right-click to select Copy Address, and then use the Add Bookmark option in Command Palette to paste the file path and assign a name. This bookmark can then be given a unique alias and a global shortcut for even quicker access.
Search the web
Command Palette simplifies web searches by allowing users to enter “??” followed by their query, which opens directly in their default browser. This streamlined process enhances productivity by minimizing the steps needed to access online information.
Run any Terminal command
For those who frequently utilize the command line, Command Palette offers the ability to execute Terminal commands directly. By typing the greater-than sign (>) before entering a command, users can seamlessly execute it within the Terminal app.
Install apps using WinGet
WinGet, the hidden package manager within Windows, allows users to install applications with a single command. With Command Palette, there is no need to open the Terminal; simply enter the “winget” command followed by the desired package name, and Command Palette will handle the installation process.
Use extensions to add even more features
As a final note, users can enhance Command Palette’s functionality through third-party extensions. Although the current selection is limited due to the feature’s recent introduction, the potential for future additions is promising. To explore available extensions, users can search for them within Command Palette or find them on WinGet and the Microsoft Store.
