CNET Editors' review
This powerful utility makes it easy to create and manage hot keys that open programs, shut down your computer, control media applications, and more.
Hotkeyz's intuitive interface divides hot keys into nine preset categories, including Control Panel, Desktop, and Internet. A simple table lists the 11 preconfigured hot keys that perform basic tasks like launching Internet Explorer, accessing the Control Panel, and adjusting volume. Novices will appreciate the step-by-step guide to creating their own hot keys, especially for more complex operations such as opening your Internet Explorer home page or automatically filling in online log-in information. A reliable help guide also eases the learning the curve.
Hotkeyz sits in the system tray when not in use, but of course, it has its own hot key combination. This user-friendly, effective freeware application makes it easy for anyone to create customized keyboard shortcuts.
Publisher's Description
From Skynergy:
You can work faster and more efficiently by using your keyboard instead of your mouse. HotKeyz is a keyboard utility that will boost your productivity and it is really fun to use. HotKeyz lets you easily create and maintain a categorized list of your hotkeys. Each hot-key, a key combination on your keyboard, will launch a command. You decide which commands go with which hot-keys.
What's new in this version: Version 2.8.3 adds new default command: Copy Text to Clipboard and toggles for 9 Desktop Window Positions.
More Products to Consider
- Bring back the Windows "Start" menu to Windows 8.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Return the Windows 7 style Start menu to Windows 8.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Create multiple alerts which can alert you at a specific moment...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Enable clock with countdown, reminder, stopwatch, and desktop s...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Place favorite Web links, program shortcuts, and widgets on a f...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Clean up icon clutter on your desktop.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Set unlimited numbers of alarm clocks on Windows.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Display the RSS feeds in the widget in an attractive way.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Place a monthly calendar on your Windows desktop.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Get dock with live icon reflections and speed up access to your...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Split and merge files easily.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Create widgets to control RS232 related devices without any pro...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Edit text files and create PDF documents.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Enhance your desktop with different widgets.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Restrict the amount of time that a child or anyone uses their c...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Play a popular Japanese puzzle game with various features.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Change the background image on your computer periodically.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Customize the look and feel of the Windows user interface.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Delete stubborn registry keys.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Record your keystrokes.Download
This download is served from an external site
closeNOTICE: This link will open a connection to a third-party site. CNET cannot ensure the security of software that is hosted on external sites.
Sponsored Products
Installed
Smart Install - Access to your favorite programs from the Windows desktop.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Download a Web site to local directory for offline browsing.Download
Installed
Smart Install - Give your Windows 7, XP, or Vista cursor a wide range of effect...Download
Installed
Smart Install - Generate your own virtual keyboard.Download
Installed
Smart Install
-
All versions:
4.2 starsout of 27 votes
-
Current version:
4.5 starsout of 4 votes
-
My rating:
Write review
Results 1-4 of 4
-
"Make you keyboard do what you want. Easily!"
Version: HotKeyz 2.8.3
Pros
Very simple to do. Open interface, find function you want, assign keys you wish to perform the function and save.
Quick, easy, affective, straightforward.
Interface automatically disappears to notification tray.Cons
None - But don't forget to open the program on computer restart. I don't think that it is automatic. But hey so what? All's good.
Summary
All I wanted was to be able to operate volume control with one hand. This does the job perfectly. And I've gone a little further and added a few more hotkey functions too because it's so easy and affective.
This is not good now. It has become unresponsive. I tried to uninstall and then reinstall. It starts off fine but then becomes unresponsive again.
Updated on Nov 14, 2012
Time to look for a better hot key software. -
"you can program your own hotkeys"
Version: HotKeyz 2.8.3
Pros
creating "hotkeys" or "shortcuts" for repetitious entries...i.e. name, address, email, etc.
Cons
No "how to" guide on creating any hotkeys
Summary
The more I use this product, the easier it is getting. Unfortunately, it took an email to the creator to figure out how to program a multiple text/ multiple box hot key.
If this had a "how to use this program" or "How to create your own Hotkeys" tutorial, it would be awesome. Most of the stuff I will probably never use, unless or until I figure out what it all does.
I gave it 3 stars because it is the only program I have found that lets me create my own hotkeys, so it's good.
I don't mean to diss it, it is just VERY confusing to use for things other than the preprogrammed items, which I am still figuring out. -
"Very convenient."
Version: HotKeyz 2.8.3
Pros
Fairly simple to use.
Cons
No complaints.
-
"Very good, very many options."
Version: HotKeyz 2.8.3
Pros
Improves computer functionality.
Cons
Crashes sometimes, outdated graphics.
Summary
I used to program to create several useful hotkeys, such as Alt-U pastes ü, and Shift-Alt-U pastes Ü. Saves a lot of time over Alt-0252, and much easier to remember. I also mapped Win keys to my favorite programs. I made Win-I open my browser, Win-G now opens my gmail, and so many other things. You can use time delays and such as well.
Note: Crashes appear to have been caused by another program, the graphics still suck though. >.<
Updated on Aug 19, 2010
Results 1-4 of 4
Add Your Review
Submit your reply
E-mail this review
Report offensive content
See more CNET content tagged:
Previous Versions:











