PowerToys Run is a keyboard-first launcher for opening apps, finding indexed files and folders, and jumping to Windows settings. Install and run Microsoft PowerToys, enable Run in PowerToys Settings, then press Alt+Space—the documented default—to enter a search. You can change the shortcut in Run’s settings.
What you need before using PowerToys Run
Run is included with Microsoft PowerToys, which is free. PowerToys must be running in the background, and the Run utility must be enabled. Microsoft lists Windows 11 or Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1, build 19041) or newer, on an x64 or ARM64 processor, as PowerToys requirements. Install options include the Microsoft Store, GitHub releases, WinGet, Chocolatey, and Scoop.
- Install PowerToys using an available method supported for your system.
- Start PowerToys and open PowerToys Settings.
- Open the Run settings page and enable the utility.
How to open PowerToys Run
Press Alt+Space, type a query, and select the result you want. To change the activation key combination, open PowerToys Settings > Run and edit the shortcut there. If the shortcut does nothing, verify that PowerToys is running and Run is enabled, then check whether another configured shortcut is in use.
Find and launch apps
Open Run and type an application’s name. Choose the matching result to launch it. The Program plugin looks in common locations, including the Start menu and desktops available to the user, for executable files and shortcuts with .lnk or .url extensions. That coverage is not exhaustive, so an installed app may not appear automatically.
#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.
If an app is missing
Microsoft’s suggested workaround is to create a shortcut in the directory containing the program, then try the search again. If you need to start an app with options, you can pass arguments in the command-line format that app expects.
Search for files and folders
Run’s Windows Search plugin finds files and folders that the Windows Search Index service has indexed. Type the file or folder name and choose a result. A missing result may mean the item is outside the index’s coverage, rather than absent from the computer.
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
Check indexing coverage
Review which drives and folders Windows Search indexes, along with any exclusions. Microsoft documents Enhanced indexing as an option that can index across all drives; you can also specify folders to exclude. Index settings determine what the Windows Search plugin can find.
Search a known folder with the Folder plugin
If you know where an item is, use the Folder plugin to navigate to that directory and filter results. For example, a file mask such as C:UserstomDocuments*.doc searches for matching files, while C:UserstomDocuments>*.doc matches files inside that folder. Replace the example path with the folder on your own PC.
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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*
Find Windows settings
The Windows Settings plugin accepts a setting name or a location path. Use $ to activate it directly, or type a setting query in Run’s global results. Microsoft documents these examples:
$ device:lists settings with “device” in the area name.$ control>system>admintargets Control Panel > System and Security > Administrative Tools.
Use plugin commands to narrow results
Run’s plugin manager lets you control whether a plugin is enabled, whether it appears in global results, and which direct activation command it uses. Commands can be customized. These are the documented defaults for several plugins:
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)
| Command | Plugin | Use |
|---|---|---|
? |
Windows Search | Search indexed files and folders |
> |
Shell | Run shell-related commands |
= |
Calculator | Enter a calculation |
$ |
Windows Settings | Search settings by name or path |
Use a plugin’s command when you want to target that search surface instead of relying on the global results list. If a command does not work, check the plugin manager for its enabled state and current activation command.
Useful PowerToys Run keyboard shortcuts
| Shortcut | Action | Scope or qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Esc | Hide Run | |
| Ctrl+Shift+Enter | Open the selected application as administrator | Applies to applications |
| Ctrl+Shift+U | Open the selected application as a different user | |
| Ctrl+Shift+E | Open the containing folder | For an application or file |
| Ctrl+C | Copy a path | For a folder or file |
| Tab | Move through results and context-menu buttons |
Troubleshoot common problems
- Run will not open or take focus: Confirm PowerToys is running, Run is enabled, and the activation shortcut matches your configuration. If Run fails to get focus when triggered from an elevated window, Microsoft suggests trying the centralized keyboard hook.
- An app does not appear: The Program plugin may not have found its executable or shortcut. Create a shortcut in the program’s directory and search again.
- A file or folder is missing: Check Windows Search’s indexed drives, folders, and exclusions. For an item in a known location, try the Folder plugin instead.
- A system command is not recognized: Some system commands are localized when the system language is supported. The plugin manager can be set to use English system commands instead.
Other things PowerToys Run can search
Beyond apps, files, and settings, Run includes optional search and utility plugins. Window Walker uses < to search open windows by window title and owning process name. The Service plugin can search and manage Windows services when enabled. Microsoft also lists system commands, time and date, unit conversion, hashes, GUID generation, web pages, and web search among Run’s features.
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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
PowerToys Run and Command Palette are separate launchers
Microsoft’s Run documentation says the utility is getting a v2 upgrade and points to Command Palette as its evolution. Command Palette is a separate launcher, not another name for Run; its documented default shortcut is Win+Alt+Space. It can launch apps, search files, and navigate settings, and also supports an extension gallery, bookmarks, and a Dock. Check the documentation and your installed PowerToys release for availability and behavior: PowerToys Run documentation and Command Palette overview.
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