Microsoft (PowerToys) A Great Hidden Tool You Never Knew Existed

By Stefan @ WeDoTech

Microsoft's PowerToys application quietly became one of the least loved but most valuable utilities Microsoft has ever made. As most users have the default Windows installation, the hidden features of Windows PowerToys are there to unlock an entire new level of productivity.

The surprise? You actually have to download it yourself from the Microsoft Store — not Google, because there are a number of fake PowerToys applications out there. And then, poof. It almost feels like Microsoft's been hiding a treasure trove of tools we actually want under our noses all along.

What Happened

Tech enthusiasts recently found PowerToys again, a free Microsoft official software that gives users the ability to have access to a set of advanced tools with the mere click of some buttons. Though created by Microsoft itself, the app is not installed, so most don't know it even exists.

Windows PowerToys is preloaded with dozens of features that can streamline creative workflows, boost productivity, and even simplify routine Windows tasks. That they are not part of Windows already is astonishing and somewhat a frustration for consumers who would have benefited from them years earlier.

Key Features

Here are some of the best features hidden within Windows PowerToys:

• Color Picker: A built-in feature that enables you to click on a given HEX or RGB code from any color on your screen — perfect for designers, editors, and content creators.
• AI Paste Tool: Coders rejoice — this one enables you to copy text typed in one language (say, C++) and have it automatically formatted to work with another (like Python). It's a little but great productivity gain for developers.
• Fancy Zones Layout Manager: Customize and create advanced window layouts to perfectly match your workflow. It’s a game-changer for multitasking on large or multiple monitors.
• Process Terminator: If you’ve ever tried deleting a file only to get the dreaded “file in use” message, this feature shows exactly which process is blocking it — and lets you end that task instantly.
• Mouse Finder: Misplacing your pointer on multi-monitor setups is a nightmare. Power Tools brings with it a feature to visually locate your mouse pointer easily by highlighting it with a flash.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg — Power Tools also includes file renaming mass tools, configuring keyboard shortcuts, and adjusting screen behavior that goes beyond what normal settings can do.

Criticism

While Windows PowerToys' hidden functions are definitely convenient, there are a few downsides. To begin with, the program is not really user-friendly for newcomers. Some of its features require some technical expertise, which may scare off one-time users. Others feel that these features ought to be integrated into Windows proper rather than hidden behind an optional download.

Security is also a concern. Many users have been tricked into installing fraudulent copies of PowerToys from unauthorized sources, which often contain malware or fake files. The official version can be downloaded online but we highly recommend downloading it through the Microsoft Store for safety reasons.

Competitor Comparison

In comparison to similar utilities on other operating systems, Windows PowerToys performs quite well:

• macOS Users rely on native functionality like Automator or pay apps like Alfred for workflow management, but those aren't as tweakable as Windows.
• Linux Users are blessed with open-source toolsets, but most of them require command-line savvy — something PowerToys eliminates altogether.

In short, Windows PowerToys gives you the power of Linux and simplicity of macOS, both in a native Windows environment.

Final Thoughts

The hidden capabilities of Windows PowerToys prove that Microsoft still has lots of tricks up its sleeve. It's a reminder that Windows is still a very customizable platform — you just need to know where to look. Though it's unfortunate they don't come pre-installed, their availability for installation directly from the Microsoft Store means they're accessible to anyone willing to look for them.

So, if you’re tired of wrestling with cluttered desktops, missing cursors, or creative color-matching headaches, do yourself a favor: open the Microsoft Store, search for PowerToys, and give it a try. Just remember, don't download it form Google (Unless you know what you're doing). Stay safe, and enjoy unlocking the true potential of your Windows setup.

If you thought that this was a cool find, check out this "Print at home" PC case.