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For a quick built-in alternative, press the Windows key and type an app or file name. For a separate keyboard launcher, install Microsoft PowerToys and use PowerToys Run. It can launch programs and, with its Windows Search plugin, find files and folders covered by the Windows Search index. Neither option is an exact replica of every macOS Spotlight feature or its appearance.
Choose the Windows search option that fits
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Windows Search | Launching apps and finding files without installing a launcher | Press the Windows key and type, or search from the taskbar or File Explorer. File results depend on the indexed locations. |
| PowerToys Run | A dedicated keyboard launcher with configurable activation and plugins | Install PowerToys, configure Run, and use its Windows Search plugin for indexed files and folders. |
Choose built-in search if you want a no-install workflow. Choose PowerToys Run if you specifically want a launcher panel and more control over its shortcut and plugins. If you need content search, remember that coverage depends on Windows Search indexing and supported file types. Microsoft’s documentation does not establish a speed benchmark between these options or prove that PowerToys Run looks exactly like Spotlight.
Use Windows Search without installing anything
- Press the Windows key.
- Type the name of an app or file. Select a result to open it.
- To search files from a particular folder, open File Explorer and use its search box. You can also search from the taskbar.
For instructions on the built-in entry points, see Microsoft’s guide to finding files and apps in Windows.
Set up PowerToys Run as a keyboard launcher
Install PowerToys
Microsoft lists Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1/build 19041) or newer as supported, on x64 and ARM64 systems. Install it through an official channel such as the Microsoft Store, WinGet, or the PowerToys GitHub release; avoid third-party download mirrors. Compatibility with PowerToys does not mean Windows 10 still receives security updates: Microsoft says Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025.
#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.
Configure the launcher
- Open PowerToys and select Run in its settings.
- Check the activation shortcut shown in your installed version. The shortcut is configurable, so do not assume a particular key combination applies to every installation.
- Use the Run settings to enable or disable plugins as needed. Consult Microsoft’s PowerToys Run documentation for the current controls and plugin details.
Run can search for programs. To find files and folders through it, use the Windows Search plugin, which queries the Windows Search index rather than searching every possible location independently.
Make sure Windows Search indexes the locations you need
Open Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows. Windows offers two indexing modes:
Rank #2
- 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*
- Classic indexes the desktop and selected locations.
- Enhanced can index the entire PC; you can exclude locations you do not want indexed.
Initial indexing can take up to a couple of hours, according to Microsoft’s Search indexing in Windows guidance. Afterward, the index updates in the background. PowerToys Run’s Windows Search plugin can warn when Windows Search is not configured to cover all drives.
Troubleshoot missing file results
- Check the indexed locations. In Searching Windows settings, confirm that the folder or drive is covered by your chosen mode.
- Allow initial indexing to finish. A newly enabled or expanded index may not be ready immediately.
- Review exclusions. Look for excluded folders and, where relevant, file types that may prevent the result you expect.
- Check the kind of search you need. The Windows Search plugin relies on the index; it does not guarantee results for every unindexed file or every file’s contents.
Microsoft also documents semantic indexing for selected text and image formats on Copilot+ PCs. That feature is specific to supported hardware and formats, and should not be assumed to exist on every Windows PC.
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- 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
Understand indexing and privacy
Windows Search builds an index of filenames, paths, file properties, and text content for supported files. Microsoft says the index is stored locally, is not stored by Microsoft, and is not used to train AI models. Microsoft also notes that installed apps may be able to read index data, so install software only from sources you trust.
Microsoft gives “less than 10 percent” of the size of indexed files as a rule of thumb for index storage, while cautioning that many tiny files or code can make the index proportionally larger. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed size for an individual PC.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- 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.
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
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