Top 10 Hidden Features in Windows 11 You Should Be Using

Published on August 17, 2025 by Light4Tech Solutions

Windows 11 has been available in the market for some time now, and many users have enjoyed its clean and fast performance. However, the powerful built-in features of the operating system go unnoticed. The little-known functions make a big impact in productivity, customization and ease of use. In this post, we will look at 10 hidden features in Windows 11 that you should start using today to get the most out of your PC.

1. Secret Start Menu with Right-Click

While the centered Start menu is the first thing you notice in Windows 11, there is a lesser-known shortcut that brings up a powerful menu. You can right-click the Start button (or press Win + X) to get links to Device Manager, Disk Management, Task Manager, and more. The “power user menu” can save you from looking for the correct settings screen.

2. Snap Layouts for Better Multitasking

Windows 11 has improved on the snap feature by introducing Snap Layouts. Place your cursor on the Maximize button of any window and you will see predefined grid layouts for arranging apps side by side. This is particularly useful for multitaskers who want to arrange multiple windows without dragging them manually.

3. Virtual Desktops with Custom Backgrounds

Virtual desktops are not new but in Windows 11 you can now assign each desktop a different background. This is more important for users who want to visually distinguish their work and personal spaces. For instance, you could keep one desktop for productivity with a calming background and another for entertainment with a bold background.

4. Clipboard History and Cloud Sync

Windows 11 has a clipboard manager that you might not have known. You can see a history of items you’ve copied by pressing Win + V. And if you enable cloud sync, your clipboard history will sync across devices linked to your Microsoft account, making it very convenient when you switch between PCs.

5. Focus Sessions in the Clock App

The Clock app includes a hidden productivity feature known as Focus Sessions. This feature integrates with Spotify and Microsoft To Do, allowing you to block distractions, set timers, and stay productive. It’s essentially a built-in Pomodoro-style timer with more features.

6. Direct Storage for Faster Gaming

PC gamers will be happy to know that Windows 11 has DirectStorage support. This technology lets the games load the assets directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, without going through the CPU. This means faster load times and smoother performance—if you have compatible hardware and games.

7. Hidden Gesture Controls on Touchpads

If you are using a laptop with a precision touchpad, Windows 11 has customizable gestures. For instance, you can set up three-finger swipes to switch desktops, four-finger taps to open notifications, or even pinch gestures to adjust volume. These shortcuts can help you interact with your system in a different way.

8. Built-In Screen Recorder in Xbox Game Bar

Many users know that the Xbox Game Bar can capture screenshots, but it also has a full-featured screen recorder. Press Win + G to open it, and use the record function to capture gameplay or any other on-screen activity—without third-party apps.

9. Dynamic Refresh Rate for Smooth Performance

Windows 11 supports Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR), a feature that adjusts your screen’s refresh rate based on what you are doing. For example, it can reduce the refresh rate when you are reading documents to save battery, and increase the refresh rate when you are scrolling or gaming for better visuals—if your display supports it.

10. Voice Typing with Auto Punctuation

Need to draft a quick note or even write a blog post? Press Win + H to start Voice Typing. This tool is quite good and now includes auto punctuation. It is a hidden productivity feature, especially if you prefer to speak instead of type.

Final Thoughts

The new version provides many powerful features which enhance your daily computing speed and intelligence and enjoyment beyond its appearance changes. Users of any skill level from gamers to professionals to casual users will discover valuable features that help maximize their PC potential.