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Microsoft PowerToys Run puts app launching, indexed file search, calculations and other quick tasks behind a keyboard shortcut: Alt+Space by default. It is a handy alternative to opening the Windows Search interface for these tasks, but it does not replace Windows Search’s underlying indexing system. Microsoft now describes Command Palette as the evolution of Run, so which one to use depends on the features and interface in your installed PowerToys version.
What PowerToys Run does
PowerToys Run is a keyboard-first launcher included in Microsoft PowerToys. Type a query to find and open applications, search indexed files, perform calculations, or access system commands. Its plugins can also support tasks such as unit conversion, web searches, opening web pages, finding running processes, generating GUIDs, calculating hashes, and getting date or time information. See Microsoft’s PowerToys Run documentation for the feature details and available plugin keywords.
PowerToys is a free, open-source set of Windows utilities, according to Microsoft. Run is useful when you want to launch or look something up without navigating through menus; it is not a guarantee that every file on the PC will appear.
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How to open PowerToys Run
- Install and start PowerToys, then make sure Run is enabled in PowerToys settings.
- Press Alt+Space, the default shortcut, to open Run.
- Type an app name, file query, calculation, or plugin keyword, then select the result you want. You can change the activation shortcut in Run’s settings if it conflicts with another shortcut.
PowerToys must be running in the background for the shortcut to work. If nothing opens, check that PowerToys is running, Run is enabled, and the shortcut has not been changed or claimed by another app.
#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.
Can PowerToys Run search files?
Yes. Run’s Windows Search plugin looks for files and folders indexed by the Windows Search Index service. That means results depend on Windows indexing coverage and exclusions. A file stored on a drive or in a folder that is not indexed may not appear just because you searched for it in Run.
If Run indicates that indexing does not cover all drives, open Windows Searching settings to review indexing mode and locations. Microsoft’s guidance also points to Enhanced mode, excluded paths, and advanced indexing settings as ways to adjust what Windows indexes. Run changes the search-and-launch interface; it does not create a separate index for every file.
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
PowerToys Run or Command Palette?
Microsoft describes Command Palette as the evolution of PowerToys Run. Both are PowerToys utilities that can launch apps and help with searches, but Microsoft’s documentation presents Command Palette as a broader palette for commands, files, web browsing, and Windows tools. Their documented defaults and interface options differ:
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches| Utility | Documented scope | Default shortcut | Interface note |
|---|---|---|---|
| PowerToys Run | App and file launching, calculator functions, system commands, and plugins | Alt+Space | Quick launcher; shortcut can be changed in settings |
| Command Palette | Launch apps, run commands, search files, browse the web, and reach Windows tools | Win+Alt+Space | Can be configured to open as a compact search box and expand for results or nested pages |
Both utilities must be enabled and running in the background. Microsoft’s documentation does not establish that one is universally better, and the feature set available to you depends on the PowerToys version installed. Choose Run if its launcher and plugin workflow suits your needs; try Command Palette if you want its broader palette and compact-search-box option. See Microsoft’s Command Palette overview for its current description.
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*
Windows requirements and installation
Microsoft’s PowerToys installation page lists support for Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 2004 (20H1, build 19041) or newer, on 64-bit x64 or ARM64 processors. The installer bootstrapper installs the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime. Microsoft documents installation through GitHub, Microsoft Store, WinGet, Chocolatey, and Scoop; see the PowerToys installation guide for current instructions.
Quick Recap
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
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)
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