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If Windows gets in your way in different ways, these three free utilities tackle distinct jobs: Listary focuses on file search and File Explorer navigation, System Informer helps inspect running processes, and Flow Launcher puts app launching and plugins behind a keyboard shortcut. They are workflow options, not interchangeable replacements for Windows or proven speed upgrades.
Which Windows frustration are you trying to solve?
The comparison below reflects features and descriptions reported in a September 10, 2026 republication of a MakeUseOf article by Tashreef Shareef. It is the author’s account, not an independent test; current versions, free-tier details, and integrations may differ.
| App | Best fit | Interaction described in the article | Scope described |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listary | Finding files and moving between folders | Open its launcher by double-tapping Ctrl; use Quick Switch with File Explorer | File and app search, basic calculations and commands, Explorer integration |
| System Informer | Investigating processes or a file that may be in use | Inspect process details and search for a process holding a file open | Process inspection, including parent process, launch folder, command line, digital signature, and color-coded process types |
| Flow Launcher | Launching apps and invoking searches or plugins from the keyboard | Open its launcher with Alt+Space | App and file lookup, bookmarks, web searches, calculations, and plugins; the article also mentions integration with Everything |
Listary: prioritize file search and Explorer navigation
Choose Listary if your main friction is locating files or switching folders while using File Explorer. The article describes a launcher opened with a double-tap of Ctrl, with search for files and apps, basic calculations and commands, and a Quick Switch feature tied to Explorer.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe article says those core functions—including the launcher, file search, Quick Switch, Explorer integration, and basic commands—are available in the free version. That is a report about the version covered by the article, not confirmation of the current free-versus-paid boundary. Check the developer’s current product information before relying on a particular feature or tier.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
System Informer: inspect what a process is doing
Choose System Informer when the problem is less about launching an app and more about understanding a running process. The article describes a free, open-source utility descended from Process Hacker. It says its process view can show a parent process, launch folder, command line, and digital signature, and that it can search for a process holding a file open. It also describes color-coded process types.
Those capabilities are reported in the republication; no current release documentation or independent test is established here. Treat the details as a guide to the intended use, and confirm current behavior and download details with the project before installing it.
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
Flow Launcher: make keyboard launching the center of the workflow
Choose Flow Launcher if you want one keyboard-driven entry point for common actions. The article describes opening it with Alt+Space to find apps, files, and bookmarks, run web searches and calculations, and use plugins. It also mentions integration with Everything for file lookup.
The available account does not establish whether that integration or any particular plugin is available in the current release. Plugin catalogs and integrations can change, so verify the current project information before depending on one.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
How to choose between the three
- Files and folders: Start with Listary if you want file search closely connected to File Explorer.
- Running processes: Consider System Informer if you need process details or want to investigate what may be holding a file open.
- Keyboard access to varied actions: Consider Flow Launcher if you prefer a launcher that can combine app lookup with searches, calculations, and plugins.
The tools address different tasks, so choosing one does not require treating it as a substitute for the others. The article does not provide a benchmark against Windows search or other utilities, nor does it establish that any app is universally faster or better.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to verify before installing
The article republication is dated September 10, 2026, but it is not current developer documentation. Before downloading, check the developer’s official source for the app’s name, supported Windows versions, download location, current feature set, and any free or paid limits. For Flow Launcher, check the status of the specific integration or plugin you intend to use. The original MakeUseOf page was not accessible for this account, so the feature descriptions above are attributed to the republication rather than independently confirmed.
Rank #4
- Fluid Typing Experience: Laptop-like profile with spherically-dished keys shaped for your fingertips delivers a fast, fluid, precise and quieter typing experience
- Automate Repetitive Tasks: Easily create and share time-saving Smart Actions shortcuts to perform multiple actions with a single keystroke with the Logi Options+ app (1)
- Smarter Illumination: Backlit keyboard keys light up as your hands approach and adapt to the environment; Now with more lighting customizations on Logi Options+ (1)
- More Comfort, Deeper Focus: Work for longer with a solid build, low-profile design and an optimum keyboard angle that is better for your wrist posture
- Multi-Device, Multi OS Bluetooth Keyboard: Pair with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Googlebook OS) via Bluetooth Low Energy or included Logi Bolt USB receiver (2)
Read the September 10, 2026 republication of the MakeUseOf article.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
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