As an analyst, I find myself utilizing a variety of tools daily on my Windows 11 workstation, yet none compare to the frequency and convenience I derive from PowerToys Run.
A significant component of the PowerToys collection (if you haven’t started using PowerToys on your Windows 11 system yet, you might be missing out on some great functionality), the Run utility functions as a launcher, but offers far more than just that.
Initially, I began utilizing it primarily for launching applications on my computer. However, what drew me to it was not just its similarity to a keyboard-focused launcher like those I use on Linux systems, but also the fact that I found the Start Menu on Windows 11 less than ideal.
PowerToys Run, once just a tool for launching applications with the keyboard, has expanded significantly and now offers a variety of functions that make it an essential addition to your tech arsenal. Here are seven additional capabilities that will convince you to give it a try:
1. FancyZones: Customize your window layouts for maximum productivity.
2. File Explorer Enhancements: Improve the speed and functionality of Windows’ built-in file explorer.
3. PowerRename: Quickly rename multiple files or folders with ease.
4. PowerToys Run Command-Line Interface: Access PowerToys features directly from the command line.
5. Keyboard Manager: Customize your keyboard shortcuts for a more efficient workflow.
6. Shortcut Guide: Get a real-time guide to your keyboard shortcuts without having to remember them all.
7. PowerToys Run Portable: Take your favorite toolkit with you, no installation required.
1. Windows Package Manager (winget)
For some time now, I’ve been leveraging an external plugin for PowerToys Run that seamlessly incorporates the Windows Package Manager (winget). This means I can install new packages without opening a terminal. Instead, I just activate PowerToys Run and execute the necessary commands within it.
As a tech enthusiast, I’m excited to share that the feature I’ve been relying on winget for, namely software installation and updates on Windows 11, is about to become native and possibly even superior to third-party alternatives. Being integrated into PowerToys simply makes it more convenient and downright awesome!
2. Quick access to a calculator
From my perspective, instead of relying on the built-in calculator app in Windows 11, you could opt for PowerToys Run. This tool allows you to perform calculations directly by typing `=` followed by your equation or calculation within the launcher. It will then swiftly solve it for you, offering a convenient solution right before your eyes.
It’s faster and easier to use, even compared to running the calculator app with PowerToys Run.
3. Executing terminal commands
Indeed, this isn’t exactly the same as having a complete terminal built into PowerToys Run, but it does offer convenience for executing quick commands. For instance, if I need to swiftly access WSL and use a specific distribution, I can do so through PowerToys Run like this:
> wsl.exe -d FedoraThis instantly opens a terminal window, pre-loaded with Fedora, all set for action. It’s another efficient shortcut for us power users who rely heavily on our keyboards throughout the workday.
As an enthusiast, I’ve found a slight hiccup: If you require administrator privileges for certain commands using PowerToys Run, it won’t execute them automatically. Unfortunately, this means you’ll have to resort to manually selecting the “Run as Administrator” option with your mouse (which feels like a step back in time!).
4. Searching Windows Settings
You could accomplish a similar task via the Start Menu to some extent, but the main reason I prefer to use PowerToys Run is that it essentially serves as an alternative to the Start Menu for me.
To initiate a direct navigation to the correct section of the Settings app, simply type a dollar sign ($) followed by your search term. I’ve discovered this method to be not only convenient but also more accurate than the Start Menu when locating certain Settings options.
5. File search
Regarding the efficient searching of files on your Windows 11 computer, PowerToys Run excels in this task, given that you consistently manage your indexing.
Using PowerToys Run makes it a breeze to find files quickly on your Windows 11 PC, as long as you regularly update your indexing.
Functionally, it operates similarly to item number four on the list, but with a twist: replace ‘‘ with whatever term or symbol you desire, then input your query. It’s remarkably swift and will comply with any folders excluded from indexing in your Windows settings, as per your configuration.
6. Quickly launching web addresses
Instead of utilizing the specific command (`//`), you can just type your preferred website directly. Here’s how: Open PowerToys Run, key in your desired site (like `windowscentral.com`, of course) and it will automatically open a new tab in your default browser.
Instead, consider using PowerToys Run which allows you to choose your preferred web browser when opening links from the command line, providing a more flexible and personalized experience compared to being forced to use Microsoft Edge from the Start Menu.
7. Registry navigation
On rare instances when I need to access the Windows Registry, I usually utilize the PowerToys Run tool for that purpose.
What makes this work? It’s as swift and effortless as everything else it does. When you type in followed by the Registry term you require, it will instantly show suggestions and promptly open the Registry Editor to the correct location.
While the Windows 11 Start Menu has an appealing appearance, I find it rather clunky, and I haven’t noticed that any of its new features have made my daily tasks noticeably easier.
I first turned to PowerToys Run primarily as it mimicked a Linux-like experience that prioritizes keyboard navigation for swift system navigation. Ideally, it would lessen my reliance on the Start Menu. Here are seven tasks it can handle, but there’s much more potential yet to be discovered.
Over time, it has evolved into so much more than its initial form, playing a crucial role in my experience with Windows 11. It’s now indispensable for me. The PowerToys suite is simply brilliant, and if you haven’t incorporated it into your usage, you’re not fully leveraging the potential of Windows 11.
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2025-02-28 20:09