Published on May 2, 2025 5 min read

Use PowerToys Run to Mimic Mac's Spotlight in Windows

Mac users have long relied on Spotlight as a comprehensive system-wide search utility to find files, launch applications, and perform tasks using simple key commands. In contrast, Windows' built-in search functionality has often fallen short in terms of speed, ease of use, and features. Enter PowerToys Run, an essential component of Microsoft PowerToys, which brings a Spotlight-like search tool to Windows. This feature offers rapid access, high versatility, and extensive customization options.

The Allure of Spotlight: Why Windows Users Craved a Similar Tool

Spotlight's main appeal stems from its streamlined design and quick execution. Activating the search bar with Command + Space allows users to type their query and receive live search results. Its seamless integration and swift response times have made it indispensable for Mac users, leaving many Windows users longing for similar functionality.

Key features that enhance Spotlight's attractiveness include:

• Instant access via a single key combination, displaying the search bar for quick workspace access.
• Comprehensive search across files, applications, contacts, calendar events, and web results, providing a unified interface.
• Instant search results during typing, enabling users to refine requests for precise results.
• Quick Actions for calculations, conversions, and other tasks directly from the search bar.
• Customizable results, allowing users to exclude specific folders or files from searches.

Windows Search: The Existing Solution and Its Shortcomings

Windows' built-in search operates from the Start menu and the taskbar search field. However, users frequently criticize it for several reasons:

• Slow display of search results, especially on older or less powerful machines.
• Limited to basic file lookup and application discovery, lacking Spotlight's comprehensive features.
• An overcrowded results page, making it difficult to find desired information.
• Limited customization options for tailoring search functionalities to individual needs.
• Resource-intensive indexing that affects overall system performance.

PowerToys Run: Bridging the Gap

PowerToys Run, part of the Microsoft-developed open-source PowerToys, delivers a Spotlight-like search functionality for Windows, addressing the limitations of Windows Search. This versatile launcher accelerates searches for applications, files, and system settings.

Key Features of PowerToys Run

• Instant search result completion while typing.
• Plugin-based architecture, allowing developers to build additional features.
• Customizable presentation settings, including themes, window position, and font adjustments.
• Keyboard navigation for efficient searches without a mouse.
• An extensive plugin library, including calculators, unit converters, and web search tools.

How to Install and Configure PowerToys Run

1. Download PowerToys from the official GitHub repository at https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys.
2. Follow the wizard-based installer to complete the installation.
3. Launch PowerToys from the Start menu after installation.
4. Enable "PowerToys Run" in the settings to activate the feature.
5. Customize settings, including hotkey combinations, appearance, and plugin management.

Customizing PowerToys Run for Optimal Performance

• Choose a more convenient shortcut, such as Ctrl + Space, for easier access.
• Select a visual theme that matches your desktop environment, with dark mode being a popular choice for aesthetics and eye comfort.
• Enable or disable plugins based on your needs to enhance performance and reduce clutter.
• Exclude specific folders from searches to improve performance by reducing unwanted results.
• Set a limit on the number of search results to balance speed with comprehensive coverage.

Essential PowerToys Run Plugins

PowerToys Run vs. Windows Search: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Tips and Tricks for Power Users

• Create command and application aliases for frequently used tasks to save time.
• Explore the PowerToys Run plugin repository to discover new functionalities.
• Consider developing custom plugins to extend PowerToys Run capabilities for the community.
• Keep PowerToys updated to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.

The Future of PowerToys Run

PowerToys Run is an actively developed project, with new features and plugins regularly introduced. Its future looks promising as developers aim to enhance Windows compatibility and explore advanced plugins based on machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Conclusion

PowerToys Run is a superior alternative to Windows Search, offering fast searches, customizable features, and a rich set of built-in tools. Its plugin-based architecture allows users to create a Spotlight-like search experience on Windows, making it an essential tool for boosting productivity and optimizing workflows. All users seeking enhanced efficiency should consider installing PowerToys Run.