xNeat Clipboard Manager

It’s rather hard to imagine using the computer without the Windows clipboard. Although it’s not actually visible, it’s one of the most frequently used operating system features. However, it’s limited to a single slot, but specialized applications like xNeat Clipboard Manager want to extend its functionality and number of items it can save.

The application spends most of its time in the tray area, with the possibility to bring up the settings panel from there. It’s also the first thing that shows up on launch, letting you change the maximum number of clipboard slots, whether or not to run with Windows, and what combination of keys to press to bring up the clip selection menu.

You’re free to change the default hotkey, but make sure it’s not used by other applications, in order to avoid conflict. The application can keep track of almost anything that can be copied, and this also includes files. Text, however, has all formatting options removed upon paste, so you need to make sure colors, font, and other elements are not of interest.

Pressing the configured hotkey brings up a small menu with all recent things you copied. However, this only works when a text field is active, which is a bit disappointing, considering the application can also keep track of files, as well, meaning you can’t use the clipboard for more files to move them to different locations.

On the other hand, having files in the clipboard can be used to your advantage. For instance, copying an image files gives you the possibility to insert it in any document which supports this function. Unfortunately, there’s no possibility to save history or organize items in multiple groups, so closing the application discards all clipboard items.

All things considered, we come to the conclusion that xNeat Clipboard Manager is a practical little utility that can greatly extend the functionality of the clipboard. A custom hotkey can be used to bring up the item selection panel, while the possibility to store files of different types comes as a major advantage and comfort option.