The Microsoft Store doesn’t always get the love it deserves — many users assume it’s full of half-baked apps or mobile ports. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a goldmine of free tools that can genuinely improve your Windows experience. From boosting productivity to customizing your desktop, these 8 free Microsoft Store apps will make your PC smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable to use.
PowerToys
For: Productivity & customization
Microsoft’s own PowerToys is like a Swiss Army knife for Windows power users. It adds dozens of features that should honestly be built into Windows already — like FancyZones (for snapping windows in custom layouts), PowerRename (for batch renaming files), and Quick Accent (for adding special characters easily).
Why it’s great: Once you start using FancyZones, you’ll never want to go back to default window snapping again.
EarTrumpet
For: Audio control
Ever wished you could control sound per app instead of muting your whole system? EarTrumpet gives you a beautiful, modern volume mixer right in your taskbar. Adjust individual app volumes, switch playback devices instantly, and say goodbye to Windows’ clunky default audio settings.
Why it’s great: It’s lightweight, elegant, and feels like it should’ve been part of Windows from the start.
Files App
For: A better File Explorer
The default Windows File Explorer works fine — but Files takes it to the next level. It offers a clean, modern interface with tabbed browsing, dual-pane view, and smooth animations. It’s everything you wish File Explorer was.
Why it’s great: Tabs, dark mode, and cloud integration make file management actually enjoyable.
QuickLook
For: Instant file previews
Inspired by macOS, QuickLook lets you preview almost any file by simply selecting it and pressing the Spacebar. No need to open the full app — it works with photos, videos, PDFs, Word docs, and even code files.
Why it’s great: It saves you countless clicks and time when browsing through files.
Microsoft Power Automate
For: Automating repetitive tasks
If you’re constantly doing the same clicks or copy-paste routines, Power Automate can handle them for you. It’s like having your own mini digital assistant. Record actions once, and let the app repeat them automatically.
Why it’s great: Turns boring tasks into one-click shortcuts — perfect for workflows, reports, and productivity geeks.
ShareX
For: Advanced screenshots and screen recording
Forget the Snipping Tool — ShareX is a powerhouse. You can capture scrolling screenshots, record GIFs, annotate instantly, and even upload directly to cloud storage. It’s open-source, customizable, and adored by developers and creators alike.
Why it’s great: It’s free, professional-grade, and more powerful than most paid alternatives.
Winaero Tweaker
For: Deep system customization
Want to change hidden Windows settings that Microsoft doesn’t show you? Winaero Tweaker gives you full control — from disabling telemetry and ads to customizing taskbar transparency and font styles.
Why it’s great: Lets you truly own your Windows setup without digging into the Registry manually.
Notepads App
For: Fast, modern text editing
Notepad is a classic, but Notepads is its sleeker, smarter cousin. It offers multiple tabs, Markdown support, syntax highlighting for code, and a clean Fluent Design interface.
Why it’s great: It’s lightweight yet powerful — perfect for notes, quick edits, or coding on the fly.
Bonus: Lively Wallpaper
For: Animated desktop backgrounds
If you want your Windows desktop to move, Lively Wallpaper lets you use live wallpapers, GIFs, and even videos as your background — without eating too much CPU.
Why it’s great: It makes your setup look futuristic without slowing your system down.
Conclusion
These free Microsoft Store apps prove that Windows can be as elegant, powerful, and customizable as you want it to be — no hacks or shady downloads required.
Whether you want smoother multitasking, better visuals, or just a cleaner experience, these tools can transform your PC in minutes.
Because sometimes, the best upgrades don’t come from hardware — they come from the right software.
