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Windows 11 includes useful shortcuts, window controls, accessibility tools and connected-device features that are easy to overlook. Here are 37 built-in features, with the setting or shortcut for each and notes on where availability depends on your Windows version, display, apps or account.
Keyboard shortcuts that save a trip through Settings
These shortcuts work from the keyboard, though some actions depend on a setting being enabled or an app supporting the feature. Microsoft’s Windows keyboard shortcuts reference documents the Windows-key combinations below.
- Open Settings: Press Windows+I.
- Open File Explorer: Press Windows+E.
- Open Task View: Press Windows+Tab to see open windows and desktops.
- Open Accessibility settings: Press Windows+U.
- Capture a screen region: Press Windows+Shift+S, then select the area to capture.
- Open clipboard history: Press Windows+V. Turn the feature on when prompted the first time.
- Open Quick Settings: Press Windows+A to reach common controls such as Wi-Fi, volume and brightness. Available controls vary by device.
- Open notifications and calendar: Press Windows+N.
- Open the Widgets board: Press Windows+W. What appears depends on your Widgets configuration and available services.
- Lock the PC: Press Windows+L.
- Open voice typing: Press Windows+H in a text field. This is dictation; it is distinct from Voice access, which can control Windows through voice commands.
- Open the emoji panel: Press Windows+. (period) while entering text in a supported app.
- Switch input language or keyboard layout: Press Windows+Space when more than one input method is installed.
- Open the accessibility shortcut menu: Press Windows+U to reach accessibility controls in Settings; individual features may need to be enabled there.
- Launch Magnifier: Press Windows++ (Windows and plus). Press Windows+Esc to close it.
Shortcut behavior can vary with Windows version, keyboard configuration or the active app. For the complete, current list, consult Microsoft’s shortcut reference rather than assuming every combination works in every context.
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Arrange windows with Snap
Snap arranges open windows into layouts so you can work side by side. You can use a mouse, touch or keyboard; the layouts offered can depend on display size. Microsoft explains the controls in Snap your windows.
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- Show layout choices: Hover over a window’s maximize button or press Windows+Z, then choose a layout and a position.
- Snap with the keyboard: Select a window and press Windows with an arrow key to move it toward a side or corner. The available placement depends on the layout and display.
- Complete a layout: After snapping a window, use Snap Assist suggestions to fill remaining spaces with other open windows.
- Return to a window arrangement: Use a Snap group when Windows offers one, for example from the taskbar, to bring the grouped windows back together.
To adjust the behavior, open Settings > System > Multitasking and expand Snap windows. Options include Snap suggestions, the maximize-button layout flyout, the top-of-screen Snap bar and Snap groups. Labels and available options can vary by Windows release.
Focus sessions for fewer interruptions
A Focus session can reduce interruptions by enabling Do not disturb, hiding taskbar badges and stopping taskbar apps from flashing. Start one from the notification area on the taskbar, from Settings > System > Focus, or in the Clock app. See Microsoft’s Focus sessions guidance for the settings and behavior.
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- Set the session duration and choose whether to show the Clock timer in Focus settings.
- Clock can offer optional integrations with Spotify and Microsoft To Do; neither is required to use Focus.
- If Do not disturb was already on before you begin a session, it remains on when the session ends.
Voice access: control Windows by speaking
Voice access is a Windows 11 feature for controlling the PC and authoring text with voice, including while offline. It is not the same as voice typing, which primarily dictates text into a field. Microsoft lists Voice access for Windows 11 version 22H2 and later. Its keyboard-command guidance includes commands to press a key or key combination, repeat a key, hold a key and release it. The exact commands and setup flow are available in Voice access on supported Windows versions.
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Clipboard history and optional sync
Press Windows+V and choose Turn on to activate clipboard history the first time. Open the same panel later to select a copied item. Microsoft Support documents a limit of 25 entries and 4 MB per item; these are product limits, not study statistics. Clipboard history clears on restart except for items you pin. See Using the clipboard.
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- 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
To sync clipboard items across devices, enable clipboard sync in Settings and use the same Microsoft or work account on each device. Sync is optional. In Settings > System > Clipboard, you can turn off sync or clear clipboard data; pinned items are handled separately from the normal history.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Phone Link and Find My Device
Phone Link can show selected phone notifications, messages, photos, app lists and related content on a Windows PC. The features available vary by phone, so the connection does not guarantee every function on every device. Microsoft describes Phone Link and related connected experiences in Essential services and connected experiences in Windows 11.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Find My Device requires an administrator account signed in with a Microsoft account and location enabled. Location relies on signals available to the device, so accuracy can differ. Check Settings > Privacy & security > Find my device and location settings before relying on it.
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- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
