Best Microsoft PowerToys Alternatives: For Windows utilities in 2025
Are you looking for Microsoft PowerToys alternatives and the best Windows utilities in 2025? While PowerToys is packed with productivity features, sometimes you want something different—maybe more focused, lighter, open source, or simply with a unique twist. With Windows evolving, so has the landscape of powerful utilities. There are fantastic apps out there, whether you want window management, quick search, clipboard mastery, or even just to supercharge your workflow.
We’ve handpicked the top 10+ outstanding Microsoft PowerToys alternatives and best for Windows utilities that boost your productivity and make life a little easier. Explore the options below—you may just find your new favorite tool!
Top 10+ Microsoft PowerToys Alternatives and Best for Windows Utilities in 2025
1. Ditto Clipboard Manager
If you wish the clipboard in PowerToys was even smarter, Ditto Clipboard Manager is a must-try. This lightweight, open-source utility remembers everything you copy, letting you access it anytime.
- Save multiple clipboard items without limits
- Search your clipboard history quickly
- Sync clipboards across computers
- Supports all file types, including text, images, and files
2. DisplayFusion
DisplayFusion is designed for people who want the best window and monitor management. It can replace or even outperform some of PowerToys’ window snapping features and works great with multi-monitor setups.
- Robust window snapping & splitting
- Custom monitor profiles and wallpapers
- Powerful hotkeys for managing windows
- Remote control from your phone
3. Everything Search
Need lightning-fast file search? Everything Search finds files and folders by name instantly on a Windows system, outpacing the PowerToys “PowerToys Run” tool for file discovery.
- Instant file and folder search across drives
- Minimal resource usage
- Real-time results as you type
- Supports advanced search operators
4. AquaSnap
For advanced window snapping and management, AquaSnap goes further than standard Windows features or FancyZones in PowerToys.
- Snap windows to edges, corners, or to each other
- Window tiling, stretching, and moving with keyboard/mouse shortcuts
- Granular control over snap sensitivity
- Multi-monitor support
5. Wox
Wox is an efficient launcher and search utility for Windows, similar to PowerToys Run but with extensive plugin support for extra features.
- Quick file and app launching
- Inline calculations, web search, translations
- Support for dozens of plugins
- Themeable and lightweight
6. QuickLook
Miss the Mac’s spacebar file preview? QuickLook brings that functionality to Windows, letting you quickly preview files without opening them.
- Instant file previews via spacebar
- Supports images, videos, PDFs, Office files, and more
- Extensible via plugins
- Smooth, clean interface
7. AutoHotkey
Looking for the best automation tool to replace PowerToys’ Keyboard Manager? AutoHotkey lets you remap keys, create macros, and automate nearly anything in Windows.
- Create simple or complex keyboard shortcuts
- Automate repetitive tasks easily
- Wide online community and script library
- Open-source and lightweight
8. Listary
Listary supercharges Windows file management and search, with powerful quick-access panels and fuzzy matching to beat PowerToys’ search options.
- Instantly access folders and files from any app
- Powerful search with smart suggestions
- Integrates with Windows Explorer, Total Commander, and more
- Customizable hotkeys and commands
9. ShareX
Looking for robust screenshot and screen recording options beyond what PowerToys offers? ShareX is a feature-rich open-source tool for capturing and sharing every kind of content.
- Capture screenshots, GIFs, or screencasts
- Advanced annotation and editing tools
- Direct upload to over 80 destinations
- Workflows, automation, and OCR
10. WinDock
WinDock is a powerful window docking tool, particularly useful for users seeking an alternative to FancyZones with customizable snapping and layout profiles.
- Configurable window snapping to edges or corners
- Profile-based setups for different workflows
- Support for ultra-wide monitors
- Lightweight performance
11. EarTrumpet
If you want finer audio control than what PowerToys offers, EarTrumpet lets you manage volume for each individual app, giving you much more control over sound on your PC.
- Per-app volume controls in the taskbar
- Simple modern UI
- Seamless integration with Windows sound settings
- Open-source and actively maintained
12. FreeCommander
FreeCommander is a dual-pane file manager that boosts productivity for power users, making it a strong alternative to PowerToys’ File Explorer add-ons.
- Tabbed dual-pane interface
- Built-in file renamer and viewer
- Support for ZIP archives, FTP connections
- Customizable keyboard shortcuts
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s no shortage of Microsoft PowerToys alternatives and best options for Windows utilities in 2025. Each tool offers something a bit different: some focus on search, others help with clipboard management, window layouts, automation, or audio. Mix and match these alternatives to create your ultimate productivity suite for Windows—your workflow, your way.
FAQs About Microsoft PowerToys Alternatives and Best Windows Utilities
1. Are these PowerToys alternatives free?
Many of the tools listed, like Ditto, Everything Search, ShareX, and EarTrumpet, are free and open source. Some, like DisplayFusion and Listary, offer both free and paid versions with additional features.
2. Can I use more than one of these utilities at the same time?
Yes! Most of these utilities are lightweight and designed to work alongside others. You can combine several tools from this list to cover everything you want PowerToys to do.