set of freeware system utilities developed by Microsoft
WindowsCentral Oct 25
PowerToys 0.102 adds a feature that feels small but instantly useful: Mouse Button Lock. It lets you hold a mouse button during long selections or drags ... Show more
Microsoft PowerToys adds CursorHide, Button Lock mouse tools: Microsoft has released PowerToys 0.102, with two new mouse utilities, new command-line tools ...
bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-powertoys-adds-cursorhide-button-lock-mouse-tools/
Microsoft PowerToys: Hotfix v0.102.3001.0 fixes crashes: After the last, good update with new features, the bugfix update for PowerToys is now available ...
stadt-bremerhaven.de/microsoft-powertoys-hotfix-v0-102-3001-0-behebt-abstuerze/
How to make your mouse cursor disappear when it's idle in Windows 11: If your cursor keeps sitting over text or distracting you while you work ...
neowin.net/guides/how-to-make-your-mouse-cursor-disappear-when-its-idle-in-windows-11/
Microsoft PowerToys: Version 0.102 bringt neue Maus-Tools und praktische Neuerungen
stadt-bremerhaven.de/microsoft-powertoys-version-0-102-bringt-neue-maus-tools-und-praktische-neuerungen/
I tried every PowerToys utility for a week, and a handful actually changed how I use Windows
xda-developers.com/powertoys-utilities-that-changed-windows/
How to create and remap keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11: Want to make better use of Windows keyboard shortcuts? Here's how to create your own and remap the ones ...
neowin.net/guides/how-to-create-and-remap-keyboard-shortcuts-in-windows-11/
PowerToys can tell you which app is locking a file, and it ended every "file in use" error I've had
xda-developers.com/powertoys-can-tell-which-app-locking-file-ended-every-file-in-use-error/
Microsoft's most useful Windows toolkit turns 30 this year, and it still doesn't ship with Windows 11
xda-developers.com/windows-has-an-entire-power-user-toolkit-microsoft-barely-tells-you-exists/
5 open-source apps have quietly taken over my Windows PC, and Microsoft wrote half of them
xda-developers.com/open-source-apps-have-taken-over-windows-pc-microsoft-wrote-half-of-them/
Snap Layouts wasn't built for ultrawide monitors, so I built my own with PowerToys
xda-developers.com/snap-layouts-wasnt-built-for-ultrawide-so-i-built-my-own-with-powertoys/
5 open-source apps have quietly taken over my Windows PC, and Microsoft wrote half of them
xda-developers.com/open-source-apps-have-taken-over-windows-pc-microsoft-wrote-half-of-them/
New 3D animation: Microsoft revamps PowerToys start screen: Microsoft is planning a new start screen for its PowerToys tool collection. After installation ...
winfuture.de/news,161784.html
Microsoft revamping a PowerToys design to improve first impressions: Microsoft is giving PowerToys a fresh design makeover in order to improve the first ...
neowin.net/news/microsoft-revamping-a-powertoys-design-to-improve-first-impressions/
How to find which app or process is locking a file in Windows.
^P
No need to restart. Use Resource Monitor: Win plus R, type resmon, go to CPU tab ... Show more
How to find which app or process is locking a file in Windows
How to find which app or process is locking a file in Windows
How to find which app or process is locking a file in Windows: Find out which app or process is preventing you from deleting, renaming, or moving a file in ...
neowin.net/guides/how-to-find-which-app-or-process-is-locking-a-file-in-windows/
I installed PowerToys for one feature, but these 3 tools made me keep it: Command Palette was just the gateway, I guess.
xda-developers.com/i-installed-powertoys-for-one-feature-but-these-tools-made-me-keep-it/
I stopped using Windows Search after finding Microsoft's better launcher: But you need PowerToys for it.
xda-developers.com/i-stopped-using-windows-search-after-finding-microsofts-better-launcher/
Key FactsAuthor prefers Command Palette to Windows Search
Sep 28, 2026 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
- Command Palette succeeds PowerToys Run; the author uses its compact search box as a replacement for Windows Search.
- Search opens instantly and usually returns accurate results, although file searches require a prefix such as file.
- The launcher switches windows, supports extensions, and can install applications through its preinstalled WinGet extension.
- Windows Search remains more convenient for pinned apps, filenames, and some obscure settings pages, the author says.
What Windows Search needs is a revamp, and honestly, I won't be surprised if this is Microsoft experimenting with a different search experience before bringing some of these ideas to Windows 11.— Hamlin describing his experience with Windows Search vs Command Palette.
Quick tip: How to find keyboard shortcuts for almost any app with PowerToys: If you're struggling to remember keyboard shortcuts in your favorite apps ...
neowin.net/guides/quick-tip-how-to-find-keyboard-shortcuts-for-almost-any-app-with-powertoys/
4 things Raycast on Windows does that PowerToys Run still can't: If anything, PowerToys Run is so basic that this comparison almost feels unfair.
xda-developers.com/things-raycast-on-windows-does-that-powertoys-run-still-cant/
Microsoft Powertoys is a set of first-party features you can pick up for free from the Microsoft store. They enable you a ton of extra functions within windows ... Show more
PowerToys Workspaces solved the one thing Windows window management has always been terrible at
xda-developers.com/powertoys-workspaces-solved-the-one-thing-windows-window-management-has-always-been-terrible-at/
I can't replace these 4 free Windows tools, and they are better than any paid alternative
xda-developers.com/i-cant-replace-these-4-free-windows-tools-and-they-are-better-than-any-paid-alternative/
Key FactsMicrosoft restores taskbar positioning in Windows 11
Sep 8, 2026 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: t3n.de
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: t3n.de
- The September patch allows taskbar alignment to the left or top through Settings, but not free repositioning.
- The Start menu now offers large or small views, but cannot be freely resized by dragging as in Windows 10.
- According to media reports, Mark Linton said at Berlin’s IFA that Microsoft would incorporate customer feedback and continuously improve Windows.
- In 2022, Microsoft said side positioning required app-layout adjustments and user demand did not then justify the effort.
So we are responding to our customers' feedback, continually improving Windows, and you will see that Windows gets better with every update.— Mark Linton, Head of Windows & Devices at Microsoft, at the IFA in Berlin
WindowsCentral Sep 09
Windows 11 is finally testing automatic theme switching, a basic feature that's required a third-party app for years
windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/windows-11-is-finally-testing-automatic-theme-switching-a-basic-feature-thats-required-a-third-party-app-for-years
I can't replace these 4 free Windows tools, and they are better than any paid alternative
xda-developers.com/i-cant-replace-these-4-free-windows-tools-and-they-are-better-than-any-paid-alternative/
Key remapping through apps like PowerToys allows you to change keys you never use into useful tools that enhance your workflow or gameplay ... Show more
engadget.com
engadget.com
This huge PowerToys update introduces a new Windows Hopper tool for easy navigation
xda-developers.com/this-huge-powertoys-update-introduces-a-new-windows-hopper-tool-for-easy-navigation/
WindowsCentral Aug 26
PowerToys Window Hopper is a must-have feature for Windows 11, especially if you live within your browser
windowscentral.com/software-apps/powertoys-window-hopper-is-a-must-have-feature-for-windows-11-especially-if-you-live-within-your-browser
Microsoft adds reboot actions and fixes to PowerToys: Latest updates introduce practical system command shortcuts, enhance plugin options ...
neowin.net/news/microsoft-pushes-powertoys-preview-v010122820-with-command-palette-fixes/
WindowsCentral Aug 20
The lead developer behind PowerToys says the features shipping next week are some of the most exciting the tool has had in months ... Show more
Windows 11: PowerToys Update Brings New Features and Local AI: Microsoft has released a major update for PowerToys in Windows 11. This gives the toolbox some new ...
t3n.de/news/windows-11-powertoys-update-1759682/
Microsoft PowerToys adds Alt+Tab-style switching for an app's windows: Microsoft updated its Windows PowerToys toolset with a new utility dubbed ...
bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-powertoys-adds-alt-plustab-style-switching-for-an-apps-windows/
Microsoft PowerToys 0.101: Major update with new window tool, Insider Channel, and local AI
stadt-bremerhaven.de/microsoft-powertoys-0-101-fettest-update-mit-neuem-fenster-tool-insider-kanal-und-lokaler-ki/
PowerToys is getting support for another local AI model and dozens of other fixes
neowin.net/news/powertoys-is-getting-support-for-another-local-ai-model-and-dozens-of-other-fixes/
Windows PowerToys: Update brings new smart restart actions: Microsoft is optimizing Windows PowerToys with direct update commands and reduced resource ...
winfuture.de/news,160751.html
PowerToys 0.101 preview: Local AI for Advanced Paste and more: Microsoft has released preview version 0.101.2211.0 of PowerToys. This time the focus is on ...
stadt-bremerhaven.de/powertoys-0-101-als-vorschau-lokale-ki-fuer-advanced-paste-und-mehr/
PowerToys finally made Windows feel like an OS I could control, not just use: It gives me my very own Windows 11.5
xda-developers.com/powertoys-finally-made-windows-feel-like-an-os-i-control-not-just-use/
I stopped using Windows 11's built-in search and switched to something faster: Ironically, it's also made by Microsoft.
xda-developers.com/i-stopped-using-windows-11-search-and-switched-to-something-faster/
Key FactsMicrosoft’s Command Palette Boosts App Launch Speed
Jul 27, 2026 · Reading time: ~30 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
- Command Palette delivers a streamlined search experience that places apps first, making it faster than Windows 11’s native search.
- It avoids animations and web results, resulting in quicker response times when launching applications.
- Users can utilize prefixes to access open windows, system settings, or perform quick calculations without extra steps.
- Preinstalled extensions such as clipboard history and WinGet enhance its capabilities, transforming it into a versatile command center.
Microsoft PowerToys quietly added a dock, and now my entire app workflow is one keystroke away
xda-developers.com/microsoft-powertoys-dock-keeps-my-app-workflow-one-keystroke-away/
PowerToys just got 28% smaller and absorbed three separate apps I used to install
xda-developers.com/powertoys-just-got-28-smaller-absorbed-three-separate-apps-used-install/
Key FactsPowerToys Streamlines Windows Tools with Big Update
Jul 15, 2026 · Reading time: ~30 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: xda-developers.com
- PowerToys 0.100 cuts the installer size by 28% to 272MB, simplifying installation and saving disk space.
- The new Power Display tool enables direct brightness and contrast adjustments for external monitors, replacing third-party apps.
- ZoomIt now supports webcam overlays and video stitching, allowing users to create tutorials without additional recording software.
- Grab and Move lets users drag and resize windows from anywhere inside them, eliminating the need for unsupported third-party tools.
Microsoft may redesign one of its most useful free Windows 11 tools to make it even better
neowin.net/news/microsoft-may-redesign-one-of-its-most-useful-free-windows-11-tools-to-make-it-even-better/
Windows 11's Start Menu Is Getting Better...But These 3 Launchers Still Run Circles Around It
uk.pcmag.com/migrated-3765-windows-10/166012/windows-11s-start-menu-is-getting-betterbut-these-3-launchers-still-run-circles-around-it
New PowerToys update fixes memory leaks and other issues: Microsoft has released yet another update for PowerToys, this time addressing bugs in one of its best ...
neowin.net/news/new-powertoys-update-fixes-memory-leaks-and-other-issues/
PowerToys 0.100 finally made me stop ignoring three features I should've been using all along
xda-developers.com/powertoys-0-100-features-i-shouldve-used-sooner/
PowerToys is getting a new window management utility: PowerToys for Windows 11 already has plenty of window-management tools, and a future update will bring ...
neowin.net/news/powertoys-is-getting-a-new-window-management-utility/
Microsoft releases PowerToys v0.100.1, fixes a bug that made remapped keys misbehave
neowin.net/news/microsoft-releases-powertoys-v01001-fixes-a-bug-that-made-remapped-keys-misbehave/
PowerToys Shortcut Guide changes how I navigate Windows, and it would've saved me hours if it were built-in
xda-developers.com/powertoys-shortcut-guide-makes-quick-navigation-easier-than-ever-and-its-another-feature-windows-should-have-shipped/
I stopped opening the Start menu once I discovered this PowerToys feature: It's faster, less cluttered, and does much more than launch apps.
xda-developers.com/stopped-opening-start-menu-once-discovered-powertoys-feature/
PowerToys 0.100: Huge update gives users brand new possibilities: The big anniversary update for PowerToys is here. With version 0.100, the popular tool ...
winfuture.de/news,159255.html
Use Windows better: New PowerToys with major changes: Microsoft has updated its practical PowerToys collection of utilities for advanced Windows customization ...
pcgameshardware.de/Windows-Software-277633/News/besser-nutzen-PowerToys-mit-grossen-Aenderungen-1545053/
Microsoft PowerToys 0.100: Major Anniversary Update with New Shortcut Guide: Microsoft has released version 0.100 of the essential PowerToys tool ...
stadt-bremerhaven.de/microsoft-powertoys-0-100-grosses-jubilaeums-update-mit-neuem-shortcut-guide/
Microsoft finally added the Windows features that should have shipped years ago, but you still need PowerToys
xda-developers.com/microsoft-added-windows-features-should-shipped-years-ago-still-need-powertoys/
PowerToys quietly added a feature I didn't know I wanted, but now I can't go back
xda-developers.com/powertoys-quietly-added-window-didnt-know-wanted-years-cant-go-back/
Microsoft PowerToys now lets you control your monitor from the taskbar - here's how
zdnet.com/article/microsoft-powertoys-control-your-windows-monitor-from-the-taskbar/
WindowsCentral May 13
“Dragging windows is finally easier”: I break down the Windows 11 tweak that quietly improves daily use
windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/i-no-longer-have-to-hunt-down-the-title-bar-to-drag-a-window-on-windows-11
PowerToys is getting a new macOS-inspired tool for Windows 11 and 10: Microsoft is working on another PowerToys utility to make it easier for users to minimize ...
neowin.net/news/powertoys-is-getting-a-new-macos-inspired-tool-for-windows-11-and-10/
Microsoft PowerToys makes Windows 11 faster with this idea: PowerToys' new "Low Memory Mode" shuts down background processes of unnecessary tools in Windows ...
winfuture.de/news,158469.html
With PowerToys, Windows is getting closer to Linux: Mit Version 0.99.1 nähern sich die Powertoys von Microsoft weiter einigen Linux-Distributionen an ...
pcgameshardware.de/Windows-Software-277633/News/Powertoys-Linux-1529854/
Windows 11: This tool should soon make your PC faster: To make Windows 11 more resource-efficient and faster, Microsoft could soon make a change ...
t3n.de/news/windows-11-dieses-tool-soll-deinen-pc-bald-schneller-machen-1740971/
windowslatest.com May 01
Microsoft brings a Linux-style window trick to Windows 11 via PowerToys, and I can’t go back
windowslatest.com/2026/05/01/i-tested-powertoys-new-linux-style-window-controls-on-windows-11-and-they-belong-in-the-os-by-default/
Microsoft's latest PowerToys tool brings control of your monitor into Windows: a must-have for anyone with lots of big monitors and too little time
pcgamer.com/hardware/gaming-monitors/microsofts-latest-powertoys-tool-brings-control-of-your-monitor-into-windows-a-must-have-for-anyone-with-lots-of-big-monitors-and-too-little-time/
PowerToys 0.99 with great new features: PowerToys 0.99 is available for download and includes two new tools that could improve the Windows experience. Microsoft ...
stadt-bremerhaven.de/powertoys-0-99-mit-guten-neuen-funktionen/
VideoCardz Apr 29
Microsoft adds Power Display to PowerToys, must have for mulit-monitor users: Microsoft PowerToys 0.99 adds Linux-style window controls to Windows 11 Microsoft ...
videocardz.com/newz/microsoft-adds-power-display-to-powertoys-must-have-for-mulit-monitor-users
PowerToys may soon get a useful window management utility for Windows 11 and 10: Struggle with arranging or resizing apps in Windows 10 and 11? An upcoming ...
neowin.net/news/powertoys-may-soon-get-a-useful-window-management-utility-for-windows-11-and-10/
These 4 tools make using multiple monitors so much nicer on Windows: Stop struggling with multiple monitors.
xda-developers.com/these-tools-make-using-multiple-monitors-nicer-on-windows/
6 free tools every photographer and tech enthusiast needs: Free software I actually rely on to get work done.
xda-developers.com/free-tools-every-photographer-tech-enthusiast-needs/
This small app is a must-have for fixing Windows 11 context menus: Tired of slow, cluttered Windows 11 context menus? This small app can fix things for you with ...
neowin.net/news/this-small-app-is-a-must-have-for-fixing-windows-11-context-menus/
Second taskbar for Windows 11: What the Command Palette Dock offers power users: Microsoft is expanding Windows 11 with a flexible menu bar via PowerToys ...
t3n.de/news/zweite-taskleiste-fuer-windows-11-1736075/
Windows 11: How to get a second taskbar – and what it can do: Microsoft is expanding Windows 11 with a flexible menu bar via PowerToys. It can be used as the ...
t3n.de/news/windows-11-powertoys-taskleiste-command-palette-1736075/
PowerToys 0.98 is out with a new taskbar-like tool, redesigned keyboard manager and more
neowin.net/news/powertoys-098-is-out-with-a-new-taskbar-like-tool-redesigned-keyboard-manager-and-more/
Microsoft Weekly: new Game Pass tier, PowerToys updates, and more: This week's Microsoft news recap is here with rumors about a new Game Pass tier ...
neowin.net/news/microsoft-weekly-new-game-pass-tier-powertoys-updates-and-more/
One of the best free official Windows 11/10 apps, PowerToys, to get a major upgrade soon
neowin.net/news/one-of-the-best-free-official-windows-1110-apps-powertoys-to-get-a-major-upgrade-soon/
4 useful Microsoft apps that don't come pre-installed on Windows 11: These apps take Windows to the next level.
xda-developers.com/useful-microsoft-apps-that-dont-come-pre-installed-on-windows-11/
4 useful Microsoft apps that don't come pre-installed on Windows 11: These apps take Windows to the next level.
xda-developers.com/useful-microsoft-apps-that-dont-come-pre-installed-on-windows-11/
PowerToys just added a mouse trick so simple I can't believe Windows didn't have it from the start
xda-developers.com/powertoys-just-added-mouse-feature-simple-shocked-windows-didnt-have/
Advanced Windows Tuning: Improvements with Powertoys 0.98.0: Microsoft has released a new version of its PowerToys add-on suite for Windows, version 0.98.0 ...
pcgameshardware.de/Windows-Software-277633/News/Tuning-Fortgeschrittene-Lohnende-Verbesserungen-Powertoys-0980-1522750/
The miracle of PowerToys, Microsoft’s last great Windows app: The way Microsoft turned an abandoned Windows 95 side project into a killer app for Windows 11 ...
f-st.co/jZMWR12
Microsoft PowerToys v0.98.0 adds a stunning Command Palette Dock for easy access to your tools
xda-developers.com/microsoft-powertoys-v0980-adds-a-stunning-command-palette-dock-for-easy-access-to-your-tools/
PowerToys 0.98 is here: Update brings new Dock & more for Windows: The update to PowerToys 0.98 is here. Microsoft is giving Windows users a new Command Palette ...
winfuture.de/news,157547.html