iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Windows 11 has useful tools tucked into window controls, Settings, and recent updates. Snap Groups can restore a multi-window setup, Focus sessions can quiet notifications, and Voice Access can control the PC by voice. Other additions depend on your Windows update, device, or gradual rollout, so the steps below distinguish built-in features from newer examples that may not have reached every PC.
Arrange windows and return to a Snap Group
Snap layouts make it easier to place apps side by side or in other arrangements. Hover over a window’s maximize button, or press Windows + Z, to open the layout choices. Select a position, then choose other open windows with Snap Assist to fill the remaining spaces. Available layouts can vary with display size.
Windows can preserve a set of snapped apps as a Snap Group. When you want to return to that arrangement, look for the group in a taskbar app preview, Task View, or Alt + Tab.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- Open the apps you want to use, such as a browser and a document.
- Hover over the maximize button on one app, or press Windows + Z, and choose a layout.
- Select apps for the remaining positions.
- Later, reopen the arrangement from a taskbar preview, Task View, or Alt + Tab.
To adjust the behavior, go to Settings > System > Multitasking. Microsoft’s Snap support page describes the current controls.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Set up a Focus session to quiet interruptions
A Focus session is a built-in way to create a short work or study block. By default, a session turns on Do Not Disturb and hides taskbar badges and flashing. You can change session duration and these behaviors; Focus can suppress notifications, sounds, and alerts, but it is not a guarantee that every distraction will be blocked.
Start Focus from the notification area, from the Clock app, or at Settings > System > Focus. The Clock app also offers optional Spotify and Microsoft To Do integrations; neither is required to use Focus.
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.
Use Voice Access without an internet connection
Voice Access lets you control the PC and author text by speaking. Microsoft says it works without an internet connection and is available in Windows 11 version 22H2 and later. Its support documentation states: “Voice access is available in Windows 11, version 22H2 and later.” See Microsoft’s Voice Access guide for setup and command details.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsNewer audio processing options are update-dependent. Microsoft’s July 2026 preview notes describe Voice Isolation, a mode that removes background noise only, a no-filtering mode, and Korean language support. These are preview-update examples, not features to assume are present on every Windows 11 PC.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Open File Explorer folders in new tabs
File Explorer’s tabs can keep related locations in one window. In its July 28, 2026 preview notes, Microsoft describes opening a folder in a new tab by middle-clicking it from the Address Bar or Home page. The same notes mention improved file-size units in Details view.
Another update-specific example appears in Microsoft’s September 22, 2026 preview notes: File Explorer Home can preserve whether sections were expanded or collapsed, alongside changes to the preview pane. Microsoft identifies this experience as a gradual rollout. If these behaviors are absent, check Settings > Windows Update for available updates; rollout timing can mean two updated PCs do not show the same interface at once.
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.
Make Windows Search more local—or show web and Store suggestions
Search can be tuned to include or omit web and Microsoft Store suggestions alongside local results. Microsoft’s August 27, 2026 preview notes also describe a setting that automatically finds additional relevant locations to index, which can affect what Windows Search finds.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Look under Settings > Privacy & security > Search for these controls. The exact options may depend on the update installed; Microsoft documents them in its August 27, 2026 preview notes.
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
Check touchpad and pen options on your hardware
Some newer input controls are tied to the device and Windows update. Microsoft’s July 2026 preview notes include touchpad controls for scroll and zoom speed, as well as accelerated scrolling. If you do not see them, your PC or installed update may not support that experience.
Haptic feedback is similarly hardware-specific. Microsoft’s April 30, 2026 preview notes describe feedback for certain actions, including snapping or resizing windows, on supported devices. The notes name Surface Slim Pen 2, ASUS Pen 3.0, and MSI Pen 2. That list does not imply support for every pen or touchpad.
Use a compatible fingerprint sensor for Windows Hello
Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security expanded support for peripheral fingerprint sensors in a July 2026 preview update. This does not mean every USB fingerprint reader will work: compatibility depends on the specific reader and PC. Before buying an external sensor, verify support for both exact devices rather than relying on the generic Windows Hello label. Microsoft’s Enhanced Sign-in Security documentation describes the feature.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Why a feature may not appear
- Windows version or update: Some examples above come from 2026 preview notes and may require a particular build or update.
- Gradual rollout: Microsoft says the September 2026 File Explorer changes are rolling out gradually.
- Hardware: Pen haptics, touchpad controls, and fingerprint sign-in depend on compatible hardware.
- Display or configuration: Snap layout choices vary with screen size, and Focus behaviors can be customized.
For update status, open Settings > Windows Update. Treat preview-note changes as update-specific examples, not universal features of every Windows 11 installation.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
