Windows' built-in file search has a long history of poor performance and a lack of advanced options. Many users don't hesitate to install a replacement, and previously we have recommended alternatives like Agent Ransack or SearchMyFiles from Nirsoft. However, today we want to add WinFindr, a new search tool that includes support for locating specific entries in the Windows Registry, and logical and/or parameters.

WinFindr: A Super Search Tool for Files and Folders on Your PC
File and folder search

Some things are historically bad in Windows, and among them is the file search. Its dependence on an index, performance issues, and poor results haven't gone away, which is why we keep exploring faster and more robust alternatives. WizFile, UltraSearch, Agent Ransack, SearchMyFiles... it's hard to go wrong with these tools, but there is a new option on the web called WinFindr that goes a step beyond files.

How to search files and Registry strings with WinFindr

WinFindr: A Super Search Tool for Files and Folders on Your PC
WinFindr is new, but we haven't found any errors during our tests.

WinFindr is new, but we haven't found any errors during our tests.

Indeed, WinFindr doesn't limit itself to searching files and folders; it can also find strings and references within the Windows Registry. This is very useful for modifying values or troubleshooting some programs, and it works just as well as the built-in search in the Registry Editor. Another aspect worth mentioning is the search logic. In essence, WinFindr allows us to use multiple parameters and combine them under or expressions (positive result if any of the keywords) or and (positive result when all are present).

WinFindr: A Super Search Tool for Files and Folders on Your PC
More than a million and a half references in a few seconds... although all drives are solid state.
WinFindr: A Super Search Tool for Files and Folders on Your PC
If you want to change the language, you can do so.

WinFindr has an Ignore section to discard any configured references, a Search log with precise details about the search, and a Settings section to change the language (Spanish included) or force dark mode of the interface. Finally, WinFindr brings support for searching in the system console (not yet available, but all commands are already on the official page), and for now it comes in two versions: one with a traditional installer, and the other portable.

(Editor's note: A false positive in VirusTotal)

Official site and download: Click here