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Windows 11’s built-in tools may not suit everyone’s preferences for media playback, interface customization, archive handling, or app updates. Five free, open-source options address those separate needs: VLC, mpv, Windhawk, 7-Zip, and UniGetUI. They are not one-click fixes for Windows itself; each is useful for a different annoyance, and some require more setup or ongoing attention than others.
Which app fits the problem you want to solve?
| App | Best suited to | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| VLC | Playing a wide range of media and streaming formats with a conventional player | Choose it for a general-purpose player; it is not the minimalist, keyboard-oriented option described for mpv. |
| mpv | Minimal, configurable media playback | It has no official full graphical interface, so it is less approachable if you expect extensive menus and settings. |
| Windhawk | Changing specific parts of the Windows interface with community mods | Shell modifications may need attention after Windows updates. |
| 7-Zip | Handling archives with a dedicated archive utility | Specific format and encryption details should be checked against the project’s current documentation. |
| UniGetUI | Managing supported package-manager installs and updates through a graphical interface | It cannot guarantee that every installed app is recognized or available to update. |
For media playback, start with VLC or mpv
VLC: the conventional all-purpose choice
VideoLAN describes VLC as “a free and open source cross-platform multimedia player and framework that plays most multimedia files as well as DVDs, Audio CDs, VCDs, and various streaming protocols.” Its Windows download page lists version 3.0.24 and says it runs through the latest version of Windows 11. This is the more straightforward pick if you want a familiar player for varied media rather than a tool centered on configuration.
mpv: a minimal player for people comfortable configuring
mpv supports many video formats, codecs, and subtitle types, but it differs from a typical desktop media app. The project’s stable manual says, “mpv has no official GUI, other than the OSC (ON SCREEN CONTROLLER), which is not a full GUI and is not meant to be.” That makes it a better fit if keyboard controls and configuration are acceptable to you than if you want a comprehensive settings window.
Recommended Free Tools
The roundup recommends trying mpv for high-refresh-rate, UHD, or HDR playback. Treat that as the article’s recommendation, not a performance result established by comparative testing.
#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.
For Windows interface changes, use Windhawk selectively
Windhawk is an open-source customization platform for Windows 10 and 11. Its community mods can alter elements such as the taskbar, File Explorer, and Start menu. Rather than changing the whole shell at once, identify one specific annoyance, select a mod intended to address it, and check its behavior after Windows updates. Community modifications are not a guarantee of lasting compatibility with every system change.
Windhawk’s project site describes the platform and its available mods at windhawk.net. Use the platform’s ability to disable individual mods to revert a change that causes trouble.
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*
For archives, 7-Zip is a dedicated alternative
7-Zip is the roundup’s suggestion for readers who want a separate archive utility rather than relying only on Windows’ built-in archive experience. The article specifically points to support for additional archive formats and AES-256 encryption, but those details are not corroborated here by a primary project source. Check the current 7-Zip documentation before relying on a particular format or encryption capability, especially for files that must be opened on another person’s device.
For app installs and updates, UniGetUI brings package managers together
UniGetUI provides a graphical interface for package managers, including WinGet, Scoop, and Chocolatey, as listed in its project repository. The roundup presents it as a way to install, remove, and update apps in one interface, which can reduce the need to work separately in each package manager.
Rank #3
- 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
It is a management layer, not a promise that every program on your PC will appear. Coverage depends on the enabled package sources and what those sources recognize and offer. Review which apps and updates are actually listed before applying changes, rather than assuming a batch operation covers everything you installed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose by annoyance, not by the idea of replacing Windows
- If your main problem is playback, try VLC for broad, conventional use or mpv if you prefer a minimal player and are comfortable configuring it.
- If one part of the Windows interface bothers you, look for a Windhawk mod aimed at that specific change and reassess it after Windows updates.
- If archive handling is the issue, consider 7-Zip and verify the exact format or encryption feature you need.
- If app updates are scattered across package managers, try UniGetUI with the sources you use, while checking whether your desired apps are covered.
These are free software downloads; the recommendations do not establish a need to buy a computer, accessory, or other hardware.
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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