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NixThis brings a point-and-select idea familiar to uBlock Origin users to Windows 11: point at a recognized interface item, review the setting behind it, and choose whether to change that setting. It is not a Windows-wide ad blocker. Its picker only acts on items represented in its filter list, and the developer describes the project as early-stage.
What is NixThis?
NixThis is a Windows utility that connects certain visible interface items—such as suggestions or preinstalled apps—to Windows settings. Its developer, Belim, describes the idea this way: “Point at the annoying thing, and it looks for the setting behind it.” The app explains a proposed change before you decide whether to apply it. NixThis project README
The comparison is uBlock Origin’s Element Picker and Element Zapper. In uBlock Origin, the picker creates a persistent filter for a webpage element, while the zapper hides an element temporarily until the page reloads. NixThis borrows the general point-and-select interaction, but its target is Windows settings—not webpage content. It is not a browser ad blocker or a Windows edition of uBlock Origin.
How to remove a recognized Windows item
Use the picker
- In NixThis, click Pick an element, or press Ctrl+Shift+Space. If another app has claimed the shortcut, use the button instead.
- Move the pointer over the item. A green frame means NixThis recognizes it; click to select it.
- Review the setting NixThis proposes changing. Choose to apply the change or leave the item alone.
A gray frame means the current filter list does not recognize the item. NixThis records the sighting locally, but does not change anything. The picker works by comparing information about the interface element with entries in that list, so it cannot act on every suggestion or unwanted feature in Windows.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Choose a change from the filter list
- Open More and then the filter list.
- Search the known filters and select the changes you want.
- Review each row’s description of where the item lives and what the change does, then click Apply changes.
The list also includes installed apps. According to the README, Windows-required apps are protected, while other preinstalled apps are offered as choices.
What NixThis changes—and what it does not
The developer says most filters change documented or well-known Windows Registry values. The README says NixThis does not patch system files, disable random services, or run a large, opaque optimization script. Some system-wide changes require administrator rights: the app first tries without elevation and, if Windows refuses, can explain the requirement and restart with administrator rights.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Preinstalled-app removal uses PowerShell, with a protected package list for core components, according to the README. These are targeted actions, not a promise to remove every Windows ad, suggestion, or unwanted feature. Filter coverage can change as Windows updates introduce new interface elements or settings.
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Can you undo changes made by NixThis?
For Registry changes, the README says NixThis remembers the previous values and offers a Bring it back option to restore them. That does not apply to every action: Windows does not provide a true undo for an app uninstall. In that case, NixThis opens the matching Microsoft Store page instead.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
How the picker identifies items
The README says the picker uses a global mouse hook and Windows UI Automation to inspect the element beneath the pointer. It compares a signature—which may include an AutomationId, class name, visible name, owning process, and parent elements—with the filter list. Stable identifiers are preferred because visible labels can vary with Windows’ language settings. For taskbar items, the app may need to walk the automation tree because Windows can report only the taskbar itself at first.
When it encounters an unknown item, NixThis records a local sighting rather than changing it. The developer says the filter list can grow independently of the app, but recognition and coverage are evolving; a new or changed Windows interface item may not yet be supported.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Privacy and project maturity
Belim says NixThis works locally by default. The optional Explain feature stays disabled until you add your own API key; when you request an explanation, the README says the app sends only the selected setting’s name and technical details, not a scan of the PC. That is the developer’s description of the feature, not an independently verified telemetry assessment.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The README calls NixThis an early project. It says the first release is out, but the source had not yet been published and the developer was cleaning up and refactoring the initial implementation. Check the live project and release page for the current download and status; the README does not establish a security audit.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
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