10 Hidden PowerToys Features

10 Hidden PowerToys Features You Didn't Know You Needed

Microsoft PowerToys is a set of utilities designed to enhance your Windows experience and boost productivity. While many users are familiar with popular features like FancyZones and PowerRename, there are several lesser-known PowerToys that can make your workflow even more efficient. Here are ten hidden gems you might not know you needed:

1. Advanced Paste: This tool allows you to paste text from your clipboard into any format needed. It can be enhanced with an AI-powered option that requires an OpenAI key.
2. Always On Top: With this feature, you can pin windows above other windows with a quick key shortcut (⊞ Win + Ctrl + T). This is perfect for keeping important windows visible.
3. PowerToys Awake: Designed to keep your computer awake without having to manage power & sleep settings. This is especially useful when running time-consuming tasks.
4. Color Picker: A system-wide color picking utility activated with ⊞ Win + Shift + C. Pick colors from anywhere on the screen, and the picker automatically copies the color to your clipboard in a specified format.
5. Command Not Found: This PowerShell 7 module detects an error thrown by a command and suggests a relevant WinGet package to install, if available.
6. Crop And Lock: This utility creates a new window that's a crop or a thumbnail of another window. It's great for focusing on specific parts of your screen.
7. Environment Variables: Offers an easy way to manage environment variables. You can create profiles for managing a set of variables together.
8. FancyZones: A window manager that makes it easy to create complex window layouts and quickly position windows into those layouts.
9. File Locksmith: A Windows shell extension to check which files are in use and by which processes. Right-click on one or more selected files in File Explorer and select Unlock with File Locksmith.
10. Hosts File Editor: A convenient way to edit the 'Hosts' file that contains domain names and matching IP addresses. This acts as a map to identify and locate hosts on IP networks.

These hidden PowerToys features can significantly enhance your productivity and improve your overall Windows experience.