Are you looking for files or images but can't remember their names? Documents are often saved with confusing names, and you spend time opening them one by one trying to figure out which one you need. 🕵️♂️
In Windows 11, just like in macOS, you can preview files without opening them, whether PDF, Excel, Word documents or images, streamlining your search and optimizing your time.
This feature allows you to hover over or select a file, you can see its contents directly without having to open it, which simplifies folder navigation and improves your productivity.
Also, we are not talking about deleting folders or opening programs from the command line, but about easy tricks to enable previews in Windows 11 things that will make your experience more intuitive.
Use the built-in feature in File Explorer
Just like taking a screenshot or cleaning up temporary files, Windows 11 includes a handy feature called Preview, absent in Windows 10. To activate it, open the File Explorer and click the button Preview in the upper right corner.
If the button is not displayed, right-click on an empty space in the browser and choose Preview PanelThis activates a sidebar where, when you select any file, you can view its contents without actually opening it. To deactivate it, just press the same button again.
Install QuickLook for a macOS-style preview
Do you miss the quick file preview in Finder on Mac? QuickLook is your solution for Windows 11, a simple app that lets you quickly preview images, videos, and documents without opening them. ⚡
You just have to download it from the Microsoft Store, install and use it without complicated configurations. Select a file and press the key Space to instantly view its contents.
Plus, QuickLook lets you launch files, view them in full screen, open them with another app, or share them directly from the preview window. It's a versatile and efficient tool for managing files.
Activate the "Browse" feature with Microsoft PowerToys
PowerToys, developed by Microsoft, adds advanced features to improve your experience in Windows 11. Among them, the function stands out Browse, which offers a quick file preview similar to QuickLook. 👀
Download PowerToys from the Microsoft Store and open it to find a multi-optional interface. Look for the section File Management and activate the function Browse by activating the corresponding box.
By default, the combination to activate "Browse" is Ctrl+Space, although you can customize it using the pencil icon. When you use it, you'll see a floating window that allows you to easily dock, maximize, or close the preview.
Increase the size of file icons for better viewing
If you prefer not to install programs and the preview isn't enough, you can increase the size of the folder icons to better distinguish each file visually. 🔍
Simply go to the folder you want to explore, right click, select View > Extra Large Icons and you will notice that the thumbnails become more visible, making them easier to identify quickly.
If the thumbnails don't appear correctly, click the three dots at the top of the browser, open Options, go to the tab View > Advanced Settings and disable the option Always Show Icons, Never Thumbnails. Apply the changes and enjoy a clearer view.
With any of these solutions, you'll optimize the management and display of your files in Windows 11 efficiently and easily.
Want to learn more useful Windows 11 tricks? Browse our tutorials section and simplify your digital life. 🚀
