How to use the Preview Pane add-on for File Explorer in Windows 10 PowerToys

Want a faster way to preview files in File Explorer without opening them? Microsoft’s PowerToys brings powerful enhancements to Windows 10, including the Preview Pane add-on — a hidden gem that lets you view file contents instantly.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to enable and use the Preview Pane add-on in File Explorer using PowerToys, and how it can speed up your workflow when browsing files like markdowns, PDFs, SVGs, and more.

🧰 What Is the Preview Pane Add-on in PowerToys?

The Preview Pane add-on extends File Explorer’s built-in preview functionality. With this feature enabled, you can preview more file types — such as Markdown (.md), SVG, PDF, and Source Code files — directly in File Explorer, without needing to open them in separate apps.

This is particularly useful for developers, writers, and anyone working with code or documents daily.

✅ How to Install PowerToys

Before using the Preview Pane add-on, you need to install PowerToys:

1. Visit the official PowerToys GitHub page:
   https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys
2. Download and install the latest version compatible with Windows 10.
3. Launch PowerToys from the Start Menu or system tray.

🔍 How to Enable the Preview Pane Add-on

Once PowerToys is installed:

1. Open PowerToys Settings.
2. Click on File Explorer Add-ons in the sidebar.
3. Under “Preview Pane,” toggle on the add-ons you want to enable, such as:
   • Markdown (.md)
   • SVG (.svg)
   • PDF (.pdf) (requires additional setup)
   • G-code (.gcode)
4. Close the PowerToys window — settings are saved automatically.

📂 How to Use the Preview Pane in File Explorer

1. Open any folder in File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab at the top of the window.
3. Click Preview pane (or press Alt + P).

The preview pane will appear on the right side of the window.

4. Click on a supported file (like .md, .svg, or .pdf) — a live preview of the content will appear in the pane.

No need to launch a separate app to peek inside the file!

🧠 Benefits of the Preview Pane Add-on

• 🔍 Instant file previews without opening apps
• 📄 Supports more file types than native File Explorer
• 🚀 Faster file management and content browsing
• 👨‍💻 Great for coders, designers, and document reviewers

💡 Pro Tips

• Combine the Preview Pane with PowerToys Run to supercharge file search and access.
• Use this tool alongside FancyZones for multitasking and workspace management.
• If previews aren’t showing, make sure your file type is supported and the correct add-on is enabled in PowerToys.

🚀 Final Thoughts

The Preview Pane add-on in Windows 10 PowerToys is a must-have productivity booster. It enhances File Explorer with seamless file previews — saving time and keeping your workflow efficient. Whether you’re organizing Markdown documents or browsing SVG icons, this feature helps you do it faster and smarter.