Whether you’re setting up a brand-new PC or refreshing your old one, the right set of applications can dramatically improve your productivity, entertainment, security, and system performance. With Windows 11 now fully matured in 2025, app developers have optimized their software to run smoother, faster, and more securely. From system utilities to creativity boosters, here are the top 10 Windows apps you should install right away.
1. PowerToys – For Productivity Power Users
Category: Productivity Tools
Why You Need It:
Microsoft’s PowerToys is a must-have for power users. It brings advanced functionalities like FancyZones (for window snapping), PowerRename (bulk file renaming), and Quick Accent typing tools. Perfect for multitasking professionals and developers.
Best For: Workflow automation, window management, and productivity enhancement.
2. Everything – Ultra-Fast File Search
Category: File Management
Why You Need It:
Windows Search can sometimes feel sluggish, but Everything indexes your files and folders in seconds, allowing lightning-fast search results across your system. It’s incredibly lightweight and accurate.
Best For: Users with massive file libraries or cluttered drives.
3. ShareX – Advanced Screenshot and Screen Recording Tool
Category: Screen Capture / Content Creation
Why You Need It:
ShareX is more than just a snipping tool. Capture scrolling webpages, annotate screenshots, record screen activity, and automate tasks—all in one open-source app.
Best For: Bloggers, educators, tech support, and content creators.
4. LibreOffice – Free Microsoft Office Alternative
Category: Office Suite
Why You Need It:
Not everyone wants to pay for Microsoft Office. LibreOffice offers a full-featured word processor, spreadsheet editor, presentation maker, and more—compatible with MS Office formats.
Best For: Students, freelancers, and budget-conscious users.
5. VLC Media Player – Play Any Media File
Category: Media Player
Why You Need It:
VLC remains the undisputed king of media players. It supports almost every audio/video format imaginable, plays DVDs, streams, and even works as a basic converter.
Best For: Movie lovers and media enthusiasts.
6. Bitwarden – Secure Password Manager
Category: Cybersecurity
Why You Need It:
In 2025, managing dozens of passwords is standard. Bitwarden keeps your credentials safe using end-to-end encryption, syncing across devices, and offering auto-fill for faster logins.
Best For: Anyone with multiple online accounts and a focus on security.
7. Malwarebytes – Extra Layer of Security
Category: Antivirus / Malware Protection
Why You Need It:
Even if you have Windows Defender, Malwarebytes adds an extra layer by focusing on real-time malware detection, ransomware blocking, and web protection. It’s lightweight and effective.
Best For: Extra protection without slowing down your PC.
8. Rainmeter – Customize Your Desktop Like a Pro
Category: UI Customization
Why You Need It:
Rainmeter turns your Windows desktop into a living dashboard. Add clocks, weather, RSS feeds, CPU meters, and more. Ideal for users who love visual customization and want useful widgets.
Best For: Power users and aesthetic enthusiasts.
9. Notepad++ – The Developer’s Notepad
Category: Code Editor / Text Tool
Why You Need It:
If you edit code, config files, or plain text documents, Notepad++ is an essential upgrade from Windows’ built-in Notepad. It supports dozens of programming languages, syntax highlighting, and plugins.
Best For: Developers, writers, and system admins.
10. OBS Studio – Record & Stream Like a Pro
Category: Streaming / Screen Recording
Why You Need It:
Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) lets you record or stream live to platforms like Twitch and YouTube. In 2025, it’s still the gold standard for professional-level streaming and video recording.
Best For: YouTubers, gamers, educators, and online presenters.
Bonus Mentions (Honorable Mentions)
- 7-Zip – A lightweight file archiver that supports RAR, ZIP, ISO, and more.
- Revo Uninstaller – Deeply cleans unwanted software including registry entries.
- EarTrumpet – Gives you advanced control over per-app sound volume.
- ClipClip – Enhances your clipboard by storing multiple copied items.
- Flow Launcher – Powerful Spotlight-style app launcher for Windows.
Conclusion
Whether you’re working from home, gaming, studying, or just browsing, the right set of apps can transform your Windows experience in 2025. From boosting your productivity with PowerToys and Notepad++, securing your system with Bitwarden and Malwarebytes, to customizing your desktop with Rainmeter—this curated list covers the essentials and more.
Don’t overload your system with unnecessary software. Instead, install smartly, keep your system clean, and focus on tools that actually enhance your experience.