Like many Windows users, I am always on the lookout for ways to boost my productivity. Command Palette quickly became an essential tool for me. This powerful utility has completely changed how I interact with Windows, giving me instant access to the tools I need. It helped me become a power user almost instantly, and it can do the same for you.

What Is Command Palette?

Command Palette is a utility built on top of PowerToys Run, a launcher that improves productivity by letting you quickly access apps, files, and other Windows features using your keyboard. It works similarly to Spotlight on Mac. Its main function is to help you locate what you need on Windows without having to go through multiple menus.

Command Palette enhances PowerToys Run with a modern UI, additional plugins (like WinGet, bookmarks, and Windows services management), and a dedicated settings interface. As Microsoft plans to retire PowerToys Run, Command Palette will become the default launcher.

How to Enable Command Palette

To activate Command Palette, first install PowerToys. You can download it from the Microsoft Store or the official GitHub page. If PowerToys is already installed, make sure you have the latest version.

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Posts 2 Next, launch PowerToys, expand "System Tools" in the left sidebar, click on "Command Palette," and toggle it on. The utility will now run in the background.

You can open Command Palette by pressing Win Alt Space. This shortcut works well, but if desired, you can change it in the settings.

Command Palette Features That Made Me a Power User

While I don't utilize every feature of Command Palette, several stood out and significantly improved my efficiency on Windows. Let me share the ones that transformed my daily workflow.

Skip the Slow File Explorer or Windows Search

When searching for a file, folder, or application, Command Palette delivers nearly instant results compared to Windows Search or File Explorer’s search. Just type the name of the item you're looking for and double-click it in the results to open it.

Do Quick Calculations

If you need to perform a quick calculation, there's no need to open a calculator app. Command Palette can handle basic math equations by typing the equals sign (=) followed by your equation.

The result of the above equation will immediately appear as 30. For more complex calculations, you may want to use the full-featured Calculator app.

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Posts 4 ### Quickly Execute System Commands

Windows system commands or Command Prompt commands are instructions typed to interact with the OS or perform tasks. Instead of constantly launching Command Prompt or PowerShell, you can execute many useful Windows commands directly from Command Palette. Simply type the greater than symbol (>), followed by the command you want, and press Enter.

This will open a Command Prompt window displaying the output of your command.

Bookmark Frequently Used Items

If you regularly access certain web pages, files, or folders, you can bookmark them in Command Palette for faster access. This saves time since you won’t have to navigate multiple windows or menus.

To do this, double-click "Add Bookmark" in Command Palette. Enter the bookmark name along with the URL or file path, then click "Save."

You can now access it from the list when you open Command Palette or search for it if it's not immediately visible.

Perform Web Searches Effortlessly

Sometimes you want to do a quick web search without opening your browser first. In Command Palette, start your search by typing two question marks followed by your query, then press Enter.

This will open your default browser, whether it's Chrome, Edge, or another one based on your settings. If it doesn’t match your preference, you can adjust your default browser in the Settings app.

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Posts 17 ### Navigate Open Windows Easily With Windows Walker

At times, you might have many windows open, and using the Taskbar or Alt Tab to switch between them becomes inefficient. When you have over 20 windows, locating the right one can be challenging.

Command Palette offers a simple way to find the window you need using its search function. In the tool, press the less than sign (

### Expand Command Palette’s Capabilities With WinGet

If the default extensions in Command Palette don’t include the tool you’re looking for, you can install additional ones via WinGet. Before proceeding, ensure WinGet is installed on your system. You can get it from the Microsoft Store (it's listed as App Installer) or the official GitHub page.

Next, open Command Palette, double-click "Search WinGet," and look for the extension you need. Once found, select it and click Install in the bottom-right corner to begin installation.

If you have your own WinGet extension, you can also add it to Command Palette. Since that process is intended for developers, it goes beyond the scope of this article.

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These are just a few of the extensions within Command Palette that I’ve found helpful. Additional useful extensions allow easy access to settings, Windows services, Microsoft Store searches, and Windows Registry queries. It's a straightforward tool to explore, and you might discover some great extensions that elevate your Windows experience.

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