Everything
ActiveOverview
Everything is a desktop search utility for Windows that indexes and searches files and folders by name. It builds an index of NTFS volumes upon first run, enabling rapid searches via partial filename entry. Designed for users needing faster alternatives to Windows Search, it focuses solely on filenames for quick indexing and low resource use.
Key Features
- Quick Indexing - Indexes file and folder names on NTFS volumes in seconds to minutes depending on file count.
- Instant Search - Displays results as the user types partial filenames in the search box.
- Low Resource Usage - Uses minimal RAM and disk space while maintaining a small on-disk database.
- Real-time Updates - Updates index in real-time as files are added, modified, or deleted.
- Advanced Filters - Supports Boolean operators, wildcards, and search commands for precise queries.
- Simple Interface - Provides a clean interface showing all files initially, filtered by search input.
- HTTP Server - Allows searches via web browser through optional HTTP server.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Full access to all features; optional donations supported. |
Platforms & Requirements
Runs on Windows (XP and later), with support for local NTFS volumes; indexes 1,000,000 files in about 1 minute. Does not support non-NTFS filesystems natively or other operating systems. Portable version available without installation.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Windows Explorer context menu
- Command-line search via Everything.exe
- HTTP server for web-based searches
- ETP/FTP server for network access
- Custom INI configuration files
- Search history and bookmarks
- Third-party tools via SDK
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Windows Search | Built-in but slower indexing and searches content beyond just names. |
| Listary | Freemium launcher with Everything integration, adds app launching features. |
| DocFetcher | Open-source, indexes file contents across platforms, slower for names only. |
| UltraSearch | Free, uses NTFS Master File Table for fast searches, less configurable. |
Reputation
Everything is widely praised for its speed and efficiency in filename searches, often recommended as a superior alternative to Windows Search. Users appreciate the low resource footprint and reliability. Some note limitations like NTFS-only support and lack of content indexing as drawbacks.
Sources (8)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everything_(software)
- https://everything.en.softonic.com
- https://www.voidtools.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5670
- https://download.cnet.com/everything/3000-2379_4-10890746.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ublmc2eUKm0
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTXHriiIRtc
- https://www.voidtools.com/support/everything/
- https://www.voidtools.com/support/everything/using_everything/