---
title: "PowerToys alternative. Comparison: PowerToys vs. SMBAct Window Manager"
description: PowerToys is a set of Windows utilities such as FancyZones and PowerToys Run. SMBAct is a dedicated cross-platform window manager with custom shortcuts.
canonical: https://smblob.com/products/smbact/docu/alternatives/window-manager/powertoys-alternative-comparison-powertoys-vs-smbact-window-manager/
date: 2023-07-30
locale: en
---

# PowerToys alternative. Comparison: PowerToys vs. SMBAct Window Manager

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PowerToys is a set of Windows utilities such as FancyZones and PowerToys Run. SMBAct is a dedicated cross-platform window manager with custom shortcuts.

PowerToys is a free set of utilities developed by Microsoft for Windows 10 and 11. Its window management module is FancyZones, a window layout manager; the other modules cover unrelated tasks such as file renaming, app launching and key remapping.

PowerToys Overview:

- FancyZones: FancyZones is a PowerToys module that offers advanced window layout customization. It allows users to define custom grid-based layouts and snap windows into specific zones for efficient multitasking and organization.
- PowerRename: PowerRename is a tool that provides bulk file renaming capabilities. It enables users to search and replace text in file names, add prefixes or suffixes, and perform other batch renaming operations.
- PowerToys Run: PowerToys Run is a quick launcher utility that allows users to search for and launch applications, files, and settings on their Windows system. It provides a convenient and efficient way to access various resources without navigating through the traditional Start menu.
- Keyboard Manager: The Keyboard Manager module in PowerToys enables users to remap keys and create custom keyboard shortcuts. It allows for personalized key mappings, improving productivity and accessibility.

While PowerToys provides useful utilities for Windows, its window management is limited to FancyZones’ zone-based layouts. This is where SMBAct can be a good alternative:

- Advanced Window Management: SMBAct offers powerful window management features such as window snapping, tiling, and multi-monitor support. It allows users to easily organize and resize windows, create custom window layouts, and navigate between them efficiently.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: SMBAct is a cross-platform window manager: it runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. This makes it a versatile choice for users who use multiple operating systems or switch between them frequently.
- Customizable Keyboard Shortcuts: SMBAct allows users to define custom keyboard shortcuts for various window management actions. This provides flexibility and convenience in controlling window behavior according to personal preferences.
- User-Friendly: SMBAct is designed to be user-friendly, offering a simple and intuitive interface for managing windows. It focuses on providing essential window management functionality without excessive complexity.

In summary, while PowerToys offers a range of utilities for Windows, its window management is limited to FancyZones layouts. SMBAct can be a good alternative as it provides advanced window management features, cross-platform compatibility, customizable keyboard shortcuts, and a lightweight user-friendly experience.

[Here you can find detailed information about SMBAct](https://smblob.com/products/smbact/)

  ![How to position windows on two eights, one top center quarter, one sixth and two-thirds of the screen](https://files.smblob.com/smbact/alternatives/tiled_windows_two_eights_one_top_center_quarter_one_sixth_one_two_thirds_layout.webp)

## Related articles

- [Rectangle alternative](https://smblob.com/products/smbact/docu/alternatives/window-manager/rectangle-alternative-rectangle-window-manager-for-macos---features-and-advantages/): Is there Rectangle for Windows or Linux? No, Rectangle is macOS only. Use Windows Snap, PowerToys FancyZones, GNOME or KDE tiling, or SMBAct instead.
- [Karabiner alternative](https://smblob.com/products/smbact/docu/alternatives/window-manager/karabiner-alternative-karabiner-window-manager-vs-smbact/): Karabiner is a macOS keyboard customization tool, not a window manager. SMBAct is a window manager and switcher built for window control via shortcuts.
- [IceWM alternative](https://smblob.com/products/smbact/docu/alternatives/window-manager/icewm-alternative-icewm---lightweight-and-customizable-window-manager/): IceWM is a fast, lightweight X11 window manager with a taskbar and virtual desktops, good for older hardware. SMBAct is an easier, cross-platform alternative.
- [WS Grid+ alternative](https://smblob.com/products/smbact/docu/alternatives/window-manager/ws-grid+-alternative-ws-grid+-window-manager-enhancing-window-organization-and-productivity/): WS Grid+ resizes and arranges windows with size presets, an interactive grid and hotkeys. SMBAct is a cross-platform tiling window manager and window switcher.

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