Over the years, Microsoft has rolled out numerous impressive features for Windows, yet many of these gems remain tucked away in a separate download called PowerToys. Some of these tools are so useful that they deserve to become standard components of the operating system.
### Command Palette: A Game-Changer for Windows
Windows has seen various iterations of the Taskbar and Start Menu, with Microsoft continually exploring ways to enhance functionality. However, none of these efforts compare to one standout addition from PowerToys: the Command Palette. This revolutionary tool offers an alternative method for managing your Windows PC, merging the capabilities of the Start Menu, Search bar, and Settings into a streamlined interface.
For instance, if you’re looking for JPG files on your device, simply type “file” in the Command Palette and add “*.jpg”. You’ll instantly find any JPG files stored on your PC.
Beyond file searching, the Command Palette allows you to perform calculations, launch applications, manage services, and tweak registry or Windows settings. Its extensibility means you can even create new functions, ensuring that if something isn’t available, it could be developed in the future. Given its utility, Command Palette should undoubtedly be a built-in feature in future Windows versions.
### Workspaces: Streamline Your Workflow
Windows has long been known for its window management capabilities, yet one of its best innovations is only part of PowerToys: Workspaces. If you often find yourself juggling multiple applications, Workspaces can significantly improve your efficiency.
Imagine being able to open your browser, check work chats, and access your to-do list all at once with just a single shortcut. By configuring your preferred setup ahead of time, you’ll not only stay organized but also save precious time—around five minutes a day, which adds up to nearly 20 hours over the course of a year.
Setting up a Workspace is straightforward: arrange your applications, launch the Workspace Editor, select “Create Workspace,” and then choose “Capture.” From there, you can customize how each app launches to best suit your routine.
### Finding Your Mouse with Ease
We’ve all been there—losing sight of the mouse cursor is a common frustration. This issue is magnified if you’re using light mode or working with multiple screens.
While Windows 11 lacks a built-in feature for locating your mouse quickly, PowerToys has you covered with the Mouse Highlighter. Once activated, you can double-tap the Ctrl key and a spotlight effect will appear, directing you right to your mouse.
### FancyZones: Enhance Window Snapping
Windows 11 brought us Snap Layouts, a convenient way to manage open windows, but these configurations are somewhat limited. If you’re working with a single monitor, that might be fine, but for those who prefer more personalized setups—especially with ultrawide or high-resolution screens—FancyZones takes window snapping to the next level.
Included in PowerToys, FancyZones allows you to create custom layouts that enhance the standard Snap Layouts. You can even design snapping zones that span multiple monitors, offering a more tailored experience that I’ve found incredibly helpful.
Given how seamlessly FancyZones integrates with Windows 11’s existing snapping features, it’s a no-brainer for Microsoft to consider including it in future versions of Windows.
These tools, while fantastic as third-party solutions, truly belong as integrated features within Windows. By making them easily accessible, Microsoft would elevate the Windows experience, making it more customizable and user-friendly for everyone.
