Most Windows users operate their laptops or desktops with the basic features the OS provides. However, what if you could enhance your PC’s functionality with advanced, productivity-boosting features — absolutely free?
Thanks to Microsoft PowerToys, a powerful, safe, and free tool by Microsoft, you can do just that. From keeping windows always on top, finding your mouse pointer instantly, resizing images with ease, to running quick search commands — PowerToys is packed with practical utilities designed to make your Windows experience smoother and smarter.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to install PowerToys and explore some of its most useful features.
Step 1: Download and Install Microsoft PowerToys
- Click on the Start menu or the Windows Search bar.
- Type “Microsoft Store” and open the Microsoft Store app.
- In the search box, type “PowerToys” and hit Enter.
- Look for the official app named Microsoft PowerToys.
- Click Install (or Get, depending on your system).
Once installed, launch PowerToys and you’ll be greeted with a dashboard on the left, listing all the powerful tools bundled into the app.
✅ Official Website: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/powertoys/
Key Features to Explore in Microsoft PowerToys
1. Always On Top
This feature allows you to keep any window — such as Notepad or Calculator — pinned above all others, even when switching apps.
To use:
- Select the desired window.
- Press Windows + Ctrl + T.
- A colored border appears, indicating it’s now locked “on top”.
- Repeat the shortcut to disable the feature.
Use case: Great for typing while referring to another app or keeping a reference window handy during multitasking.
2. Awake
If you’re tired of your PC going to sleep during meetings, presentations, or file transfers, the Awake tool helps.
To use:
- Navigate to Awake in the PowerToys dashboard.
- Enable it by toggling “Keep your PC awake”.
You can choose to keep your system awake indefinitely or for a set duration — helpful when you want your computer to stay online for apps like Teams.
3. Find My Mouse
Lost your mouse pointer on the screen? Instantly locate it with a glowing effect.
To use:
- Press the Left Ctrl key twice.
- A spotlight circle will appear around the pointer.
Especially useful for multi-monitor setups or large displays.
4. Mouse Highlighter
This feature highlights mouse clicks with colorful animations — ideal for tutorials, presentations, or teaching.
To use:
- Go to Mouse Utilities > Mouse Highlighter.
- Enable the feature.
- Press Windows + Shift + H to activate.
Every click will now be visually marked (left clicks in yellow, right clicks in blue by default). You can customize the colors, radius, and opacity for better visibility.
5. Image Resizer
Need to quickly resize an image for email or a website upload? No need for third-party tools — PowerToys has a built-in resizer.
To use:
- Enable Image Resizer in the dashboard.
- Right-click on any image file.
- Select “Resize pictures”.
- Choose from small, medium, large, or custom sizes.
It creates a resized copy, leaving the original file untouched. Fast, simple, and incredibly handy.
6. PowerToys Run
A powerful and stylish alternative to the traditional Run box in Windows, this utility lets you search and launch apps or files quickly.
To use:
- Enable PowerToys Run.
- Press Alt + Space to activate it.
- Start typing — whether it’s a file, app, or folder — and open it directly from the search results.
This is very similar to Spotlight Search in macOS and provides a lightning-fast search experience.
Final Thoughts
With Microsoft PowerToys, your everyday Windows experience gets a serious upgrade — and the best part is that it’s all free, safe, and directly from Microsoft.
Whether you’re a student, professional, teacher, or casual user, these tools can help you work faster, smarter, and with more control.
Explore the rest of the features within the PowerToys dashboard — including Color Picker, FancyZones, Keyboard Manager, and more — to further enhance your workflow.
📝 Disclaimer: The tools described above are part of Microsoft PowerToys, a utility provided by Microsoft. Always ensure you download software from trusted sources like the official Microsoft Store or website to avoid any security risks.
Tags:
windows tips, microsoft powertoys, productivity tools, windows 10, windows 11, image resizer, always on top, power run, find my mouse, mouse highlighter, tech guide, pc customization
Hashtags:
#WindowsTips #PowerToys #MicrosoftTools #ProductivityHacks #Windows11 #TechGuide #MouseHighlighter #ImageResizer #PCTricks
