Last week I spent some time looking for a good shortcut program for Windows. My requirement was that it needed to be free of cost and provide good features. I ended up spending a lot of time downloading applications, which boasted freeware in big letters. Well, these freeware applications ended up being nothing but evaluation copies. I hate when software developers try to get you hooked and lie about the cost. Honestly, I did not even open most of the cost-related applications. My search went on!

The best free shortcut application I found was Active Keys. It was very quick to install and the user interface is easy. It may not look very modern, but do not be fooled. This is a robust application. As I kept on searching for more options, I ended up coming back to this one. The website is very informative and explains all the features. There is nothing to complain about.

I found a free alternative in AutoHotkey. This one is for advanced users, because you have to develop your own macro scripts. Although you can partially record macros, script development skills are definitely needed. It has no user interface, so be prepared to read the help guide. Scripting appeals to me because there is no limit of what you can do. It does require you to invest time in learning the scripting technique and write the scripts. I may use this application one day, but not for right now. I can see it being useful when performing client demonstrations using Windows software to automate key and mouse commands. Do not download this one, unless you are used to scripting.

IF you have extra money in your pocket, the best of them all is Hotkeycontrol XP. This has a super-nice interface, very easy to use, offers all the functionality you could ask for including On-Screen Display (OSD), shortcuts for typing text, e.g. email addresses, multimedia features, windows see-through on demand etc. It cost $34.95, so if you have the money, I certainly recommend this one, you will not be disappointed. Make sure you make use of the evaluation period first though. Personally, I prefer spending my $35 on Lattés from Starbucks. For now, I will use Active Keys, but I may get Hotkeycontrol XP if I feel the need for more features.

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