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To make Windows more keyboard-first, combine three free tools that handle different jobs: Microsoft PowerToys Command Palette for finding apps, files, settings, and commands; FancyWM for arranging windows; and AutoHotkey for custom shortcuts and automation. They complement one another rather than compete, and you can still use your mouse whenever it suits you.
What each tool does
| Tool | Best suited to | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| PowerToys Command Palette | Launching and searching | A searchable keyboard entry point for apps, files, settings, commands, and other actions; it requires PowerToys to be enabled and running. |
| FancyWM | Arranging windows | A dynamic tiling window manager; the described workflow uses keyboard shortcuts to change how the focused window fits into a layout. |
| AutoHotkey | Customizing actions | A scripting tool for creating hotkeys, remapping keys, expanding text, and automating tasks; more advanced scripts require learning. |
The selection and the reported experience come from Zunaid Ali’s How-To Geek article, syndicated by Yahoo Tech on August 26, 2026. The shortcuts and ease-of-use observations below are the author’s account, not controlled tests or independently measured time savings.
Find apps, files, and actions with Command Palette
Microsoft PowerToys Command Palette gives you a keyboard-driven place to search and launch apps, find files and folders, run commands, search the web, calculate, navigate Windows Settings, switch windows, and view clipboard history. Its default activation shortcut is Win+Alt+Space. PowerToys must be running in the background and Command Palette must be enabled; you can change the activation shortcut in its settings.
Recommended Free Tools
Microsoft documents several ways to narrow a search or open a particular kind of action:
#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.
- Type
>before a command, such as> cmd. - Type
??before a web query. - Type
$before a Windows Settings page.
Command Palette can also search WinGet to help discover and install apps. Its Extension Gallery lets you browse, install, update, and remove community extensions. These are documented options, not a guarantee that every extension is suitable or that the palette will feel faster than Windows Search for every person.
Microsoft describes Command Palette as the evolution of PowerToys Run. Its PowerToys Run documentation says: “PowerToys Run is getting an upgrade to v2! Check out the Command Palette, PowerToys Run’s evolution.” PowerToys Run also requires PowerToys to be running and its module enabled.
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
For current features, setup details, and controls, see Microsoft’s Command Palette documentation and PowerToys Run documentation.
Arrange windows with FancyWM
FancyWM is the window-arrangement tool in this set. Unlike simply stacking windows, a dynamic tiling window manager places new windows into a layout. In Ali’s described setup, he activates FancyWM with Win+Shift and uses keys such as H, V, or F to allocate space for the focused window. Those particular shortcuts are reported in the article and are not independently confirmed here against FancyWM’s documentation; check the app’s current settings before relying on them.
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*
Expect an adjustment period if tiling is new to you. Ali reports that FancyWM took practice to feel familiar, and some users may prefer a conventional arrangement. That experience is individual rather than a universal result.
If you want a Windows-native option for organizing windows into defined zones, Microsoft’s PowerToys FancyZones supports custom zones, monitor-specific layouts, keyboard activation, configurable shortcuts, and cycling or rotating windows. FancyZones is a related alternative, not one of the three tools discussed here. See Microsoft’s FancyZones documentation.
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)
Create your own shortcuts with AutoHotkey
AutoHotkey lets you define key combinations for actions that do not already have a convenient shortcut. Ali describes using it for key remapping, text expansion, and automation across apps. The article says simple uses may require little prior learning, while more advanced scripts bring a learning curve; it also points to community scripts as one way to get started.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteAutoHotkey is the most customizable of these three tools, but that flexibility comes with more responsibility: you need to choose, understand, and maintain your own scripts. The evidence available here does not establish version-specific syntax or script compatibility, so check the current official documentation before using a script or adapting code found online.
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
Choose based on the task, not a productivity ranking
These tools address separate parts of a keyboard-first workflow. Start with the task you want to improve rather than installing all three at once:
- You spend time hunting for apps or settings: try Command Palette and see whether its searchable entry point fits your habits.
- You repeatedly resize or reposition windows: try FancyWM if you are willing to practice a tiling workflow; consider FancyZones if predefined zones are a better fit.
- You repeat an action without a convenient shortcut: consider AutoHotkey, starting with a simple, well-understood customization.
The trade-off is setup and learning. Command Palette offers documented features once enabled in PowerToys; FancyWM asks you to adapt to a different window layout; AutoHotkey gives you control but rewards time spent learning scripting. The article does not provide a controlled comparison or measured productivity gains, so treat its experience as a useful example, not a promise that these tools will make every user faster.
Related PowerToys options and installation
PowerToys also includes Keyboard Manager, a separate utility that can remap keys and shortcuts, including app-specific mappings. It works only while PowerToys is running and does not operate on password screens. Microsoft lists reserved shortcuts, including Win+L and Ctrl+Alt+Delete, that cannot be remapped. Keyboard Manager can be useful for straightforward remapping, but it is not a substitute for the three-tool combination described above. Details are in Microsoft’s Keyboard Manager documentation.
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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11For PowerToys installation, current releases, and privacy information, use the official PowerToys repository, which links to Microsoft Store and WinGet installation routes, release notes, and privacy documentation. The repository says the app logs basic diagnostic data; consult its linked privacy information for the current details.
Quick Recap
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