How to use Color Picker module in Windows PowerToys

PowerToys recently proposed a new module for Windows 10. This new application is Color pipette which will allow users to get the actual color that is under the slider. In this article, we will provide you with a description of how you can use the Color pipette module in Windows PowerToys.

The Color Picker module will include a ton of useful features.

• The color picker appears when the activation shortcut is activated (configurable in the settings).
• The color picker follows the mouse cursor and displays the actual color under the cursor.
• Scrolling up will open the Zoom window for better color selection accuracy.
• The left click of the mouse will copy this color to a clipboard in a predefined format (parameter).
• Changes the cursor when selecting a color (can be disabled).
• The color picker is compatible with several monitors / multi DPI. It respects the limits of the monitors and always remains in view (predefined safety zones at the top, bottom, left, right of a monitor).

It will be accessible with a keyboard shortcut and will have its own Settings page in the main user interface, as shown in the image below.

How to use the Color Picker module in Windows PowerToys

The Color Picker option is really reliable for users who want precise color composition. This function essentially selects the color of the screen pixel where the cursor is located. Once you activate the color picker, wherever your cursor moves, it displays the exact hex code for that color.

To use the Color Picker module in Windows PowerToys, follow these steps:

Assuming that the PowerToys application is running, in the PowerToys configuration window, you must switch to Color pipette. On the right side, you need to make sure that the function is activated.

The cursor changes itself when the color picker is activated.

Few quick color picker mouse actions in Windows PowerToys are:

• Move cursor – Gives you the exact color of the pixels (it follows the cursor and shows the color behind the cursor).
• Scroll up – Once you have selected a pixel color, scrolling up will give you better color accuracy.
• Left click – This copies the color in a predefined format (look in the settings for more information).

You can easily turn the color picker on and off using the keyboard shortcut. The color can be saved to the clipboard and loaded easily from the clipboard.

Note: Currently, the update is not stable and may not be available in the latest version of PowerToys 0.19.1.