Microsoft's PowerToys suite offers a collection of utilities designed to enhance productivity and streamline the Windows experience. While these tools are invaluable, they require a separate download and installation, which may deter the average user from accessing them. Integrating certain PowerToys features directly into Windows could significantly improve user efficiency and satisfaction. Here are some standout PowerToys utilities that deserve default inclusion in Windows:
FancyZones: Advanced Window Management
Windows 11 introduced Snap Layouts to facilitate window organization, but FancyZones takes this functionality to a higher level. It allows users to create custom window layouts, enabling efficient multitasking, especially on large or multiple monitors. Users can design and edit layouts with multiple zones, tailoring their workspace to specific needs. This feature is particularly beneficial for professionals who require multiple applications open simultaneously. (windowscentral.com)PowerToys Run: Enhanced Application Launcher
PowerToys Run serves as a powerful alternative to the traditional Start menu and Windows Search. Activated by pressing Alt + Spacebar, it provides a streamlined interface to search for files, launch applications, and access system settings. Unlike the default search, PowerToys Run focuses on local content, delivering faster and more relevant results without the clutter of web suggestions. (pcworld.com)Image Resizer: Efficient Batch Image Processing
Managing image sizes is a common task, and Image Resizer simplifies this process by allowing users to resize multiple images directly from the File Explorer context menu. Users can choose from preset sizes or define custom dimensions, making it ideal for preparing images for emails, web uploads, or presentations. This tool eliminates the need for third-party software, streamlining the workflow for users who frequently handle images. (makeuseof.com)Color Picker: Precise Color Identification
For designers and developers, accurately identifying and replicating colors is crucial. Color Picker enables users to select any color on their screen and provides its code in various formats, including HEX and RGB. Activated with Windows + Shift + C, this tool is invaluable for tasks requiring color precision, such as graphic design and web development. (howtogeek.com)Always On Top: Persistent Window Visibility
Certain tasks require a window to remain visible above others, and Always On Top addresses this need effectively. By pressing Windows + Ctrl + T, users can pin any window to stay on top, ensuring continuous visibility. This feature is particularly useful for referencing documents, monitoring applications, or keeping communication tools accessible during multitasking. (windowscentral.com)Text Extractor: Seamless Text Retrieval
Extracting text from images or non-selectable areas can be challenging. Text Extractor utilizes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to capture text from any part of the screen. By pressing Windows + Shift + T, users can select an area, and the text is copied to the clipboard. This tool is beneficial for digitizing printed materials, capturing error messages, or extracting information from images without manual transcription. (xda-developers.com)PowerRename: Advanced File Renaming
Renaming multiple files individually is time-consuming. PowerRename simplifies this by allowing batch renaming with search and replace functionality, regular expressions, and case sensitivity options. Accessible via the File Explorer context menu, this tool is ideal for organizing large collections of files, such as photos or documents, efficiently. (fossbytes.com)Peek: Quick File Previews
Previewing file contents without opening them can save time. Peek enables users to quickly view file contents by selecting a file and pressing Ctrl + Space. This feature supports various file types, including images, PDFs, and documents, providing a swift way to verify file contents without launching associated applications. (xda-developers.com)File Explorer Add-ons: Enhanced File Previews
PowerToys extends File Explorer's capabilities by adding support for previews of additional file types, such as SVG, Markdown, and PDF files. This enhancement allows users to view file contents directly in the preview pane, streamlining file management and reducing the need to open multiple applications. (howtogeek.com)Find My Mouse: Cursor Location Assistance
Locating the mouse cursor can be challenging, especially on large or multiple displays. Find My Mouse highlights the cursor's position by pressing the Ctrl key twice, dimming the screen and spotlighting the cursor. This feature is particularly helpful for users with visual impairments or those working in complex display setups. (pcworld.com)Keyboard Manager: Custom Key Remapping
Customizing keyboard inputs can enhance productivity. Keyboard Manager allows users to remap keys and create custom shortcuts, tailoring the keyboard layout to individual preferences. This tool is beneficial for replacing seldom-used keys with more functional inputs or creating shortcuts for frequently used actions. (rebootpoint.com)Integrating these PowerToys features directly into Windows would provide users with a more robust and efficient operating system out of the box. By reducing the need for third-party applications and offering advanced functionalities natively, Microsoft can enhance the overall user experience and productivity for all Windows users.
Source: groovyPost I Wish These PowerToys Features Were Enabled by Default on Windows
