If you are a user of Windows 11 or even Windows 10, you've probably come across a tool that promises to significantly improve your productivity. PowerToys, created by Microsoft, are a set of free utilities designed specifically for Advanced users. Through them, you can make adjustments and perform functions that the operating system does not include by default.
From tools for rearranging windows to options for resizing images, PowerToys offer a comprehensive solution for those looking for customize your experience with Windows. Since they don't come pre-installed, many users don't know about their capabilities or how to configure them. In this article, we're going to explain everything you need to know about these utilities: what they are, how to install them, and what their most notable functions are.
What are Windows PowerToys?
PowerToys are a set of utilities officially designed by Microsoft to add advanced functions to the Windows operating system. Originally created for Windows 95, these tools came back in 2019 as an open source project available on GitHub. Although they are intended for Advanced users, are extremely intuitive and can make a big difference in the way you use your computer.
These utilities do not come installed by default in Windows 11 or Windows 10, but their download and installation are very simple. From window management to developer tools, its main goal is to increase productivity and facilitate tasks that would otherwise be tedious or impossible to perform without additional software.
Main tools integrated into PowerToys
The PowerToys package includes multiple tools that significantly enhance the capabilities of Windows. Below we detail the most notable ones:
Fancy Zones
FancyZones is one of the most iconic and useful modules in PowerToys. It allows you to organize the open windows on the screen using customizable layouts. For example, you can divide your screen into columns, rows, or any other arrangement you like.
Ideal for users working with ultra-wide displays or multiple monitorsFancyZones complements Windows 11's Snap Layouts feature, offering much more advanced options. Once set up, simply hold down the Shift key while dragging a window to fit it into your layout.
Power Rename
Need to rename multiple files at once? PowerRename is the perfect tool to perform bulk file name changes with advanced options. It offers support for regular expressions, searches and replacements, allowing you to rename hundreds of files in seconds.
For example, if you have a set of photos and you want to add a prefix or change its name format, PowerRename does it quickly from the Windows Explorer context menu.
Powertoys run
If you've ever wanted a macOS Spotlight-style app launcher, PowerToys Run is your solution. Pressing Alt + Space opens a search bar that lets you locate apps, files, and even perform basic math.
In addition to being fast and efficient, PowerToys Run is highly customizableYou can choose which types of results interest you most and activate or deactivate modules according to your needs.
Color picker
For graphic designers and developers, the Color Picker is a must-have. This module allows you to capture colors from any part of your screen and copy their values in formats such as HEX, RGB or CMYK.
Activating it is as simple as pressing Windows + Shift + C. Once the color is collected, you can edit it or save it directly to your clipboard for use in any project.
Awake
Does your computer go to sleep just when you need it most active? With Awake, You can keep your PC on without altering the system's default power settings. This is especially useful during long tasks like backups or video encoding.
From its interface, you can configure if you want keep the screen on too, or if you prefer that only the computer remains active while the screen turns off to save energy.
How to install PowerToys on your PC
Installing PowerToys is a simple process, and you have several options to do so:
- Microsoft Store: Search for “Microsoft PowerToys” in the official Windows Store and click on Install.
- GitHub repository: Visit the official PowerToys page on GitHub and download the installation file corresponding to your operating system. Then, follow the instructions in the installer.
- Winget Package Manager: Use the command line with the code
winget install Microsoft.PowerToys.
Regardless of which method you choose, once the program is installed, you will find a control Panel from which you can activate, configure and customize each of the available modules.
Why are PowerToys a must-have?
PowerToys are not only useful, but they are also constantly evolving thanks to their nature of open source and community contributions. Among the latest added features, the integration with artificial intelligence and optimizations for professional workflows stand out.
In addition to the tools already mentioned, the package includes utilities such as “Always on Top” for pinning windows, “Registry Preview” for easy editing of regedit entries, and “Shortcut Guide” for those who want to learn and master the keyboard shortcuts of Windows.
With this suite of tools, Microsoft has managed to give the user greater capacity for customization and control over your operating system. It doesn’t matter if you are a designer, developer or just someone who wants to streamline their workflow. PowerToys have something special for everyone.
I'm Alberto Navarro and I'm passionate about everything related to technology, from cutting-edge gadgets to software and video games of all kinds. My interest in digital began with video games and continued in the world of digital marketing. I have been writing about the digital world on different platforms since 2019, sharing the latest news in the sector. I also try to write in an original way so that you can stay up to date while having fun.
I studied Sociology at university and completed my studies with a Master's in Digital Marketing. So if you have any questions, I'll share with you all my experience in the world of digital marketing, technology and video games.