Even experienced Windows users often don’t realize how much more efficient their system could be — and what’s better, these upgrades can cost you nothing. In this guide, I’ll walk through a set of free utilities (many of them open-source) that enhance productivity, reduce friction, and make your daily use of Windows more enjoyable.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
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Microsoft PowerToys
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Keyla
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TwinkleTray
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Traffic Monitor
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Windhawk
These tools may look small, but together they turn a standard Windows setup into a streamlined, dynamic workspace — without taxing your system.
1. Microsoft PowerToys
Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of small utilities designed to extend Windows functionality. It makes frequent tasks faster and more intuitive — window snapping, file previews, clipboard management, and more.
You can install it from its official GitHub repo or via the Microsoft Store.
Key features to try first:
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PowerToys Run – Launch apps, find files, run commands instantly.
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Always On Top – Pin windows above others.
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Peek – Preview files (images, documents, videos) without opening them.
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FancyZones – Configure custom window layouts that match your workflow.
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Advanced Paste / Text Extractor – Format clipboard content or pull text from parts of screen.
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Color Picker / Screen Ruler – Simple tools for designers or development work.
PowerToys is the Swiss Army knife for power users.
2. Keyla — Neutral Layout Switcher
Rather than using a region-specific tool, Keyla is a cross-platform, light layout switcher for Windows. It lets you assign hotkeys to change keyboard layouts quickly, avoiding the clunky default layout switching in Windows.
Keyla is a clean, no-frills option preferred by those who need fast layout switching without added bloat. Download from open-source archives (e.g. Softpedia) softpedia.com.
3. TwinkleTray — Monitor Brightness Control
TwinkleTray gives you quick brightness control for one or multiple monitors via the system tray.
Highlights include DDC/CI support, per-monitor brightness, scheduled dimming, and command-line options.
This is especially handy if you use your system late at night or have dual displays.
4. Traffic Monitor — Real-Time System Stats
Traffic Monitor puts CPU, memory, and network usage right in your taskbar. It’s a customizable, low-resource alternative to opening Task Manager. Great for keeping an eye on system health without disruption.
5. Windhawk — Custom Mods for Windows
Windhawk is a modular platform for enhancing Windows behavior with mini “mods.” Want smart snapping, custom Alt+Tab behavior, or taskbar tweaks? Windhawk gives you a modular way to do it, and new mods are added by the community.
Popular modules include:
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Slick Window Arrangement – smart window alignment
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Alt+Tab per Monitor, Middle-click to close, Taskbar hide speed, and more
Conclusion
If you’re building a smooth, efficient Windows setup, these five free utilities are a great starting point.
Install PowerToys, Keyla, TwinkleTray, Traffic Monitor, and Windhawk — and start working smarter.
Also read: Best Free Antivirus for Windows 11 in 2025
