10 Tools to Keep Any App "Always on Top" in Windows
Pin any window above the rest using free utilities and an AutoHotkey shortcut.
Overview
Windows has no universal "always on top" button, but several free tools add it to any window — handy for keeping a calculator, video, or reference visible while you work. This guide rounds up ten options.
Note: Download each tool only from its official website/repository to avoid bundled or fake installers.
Key Takeaways
- These tools pin any window above others.
- AutoHotkey gives a one-line hotkey solution.
- Some add extra window-management features.
- All the picks are free.
The Tools
- WindowTop — pin windows, plus dimming and transparency features.
- DeskPins — click a pin to keep a window on top.
- AutoHotkey — a script maps a hotkey to toggle always-on-top.
- StayOnTop — lightweight pin utility.
- TurboTop — tray menu to toggle any window on top.
- Always On Top — simple dedicated tool.
- OnTopReplica — shows a live, always-on-top clone of a window.
- WinLister — lists windows and toggles their state.
- 4t Tray Minimizer — minimize to tray plus always-on-top.
- PowerMenu — adds always-on-top and transparency to window menus.
Quick AutoHotkey Method
1. Install AutoHotkey from its official site.
2. Create a .ahk script with: #SPACE::WinSet, AlwaysOnTop, , A
3. Run the script; press Windows + Space over any window to toggle always-on-top.
4. Add the script to startup to keep the hotkey available.
Which to Use
- Hotkey lovers/scripters: AutoHotkey.
- Click-to-pin simplicity: DeskPins.
- Feature-rich (dim/transparency): WindowTop.
- Live clone of a window: OnTopReplica.
Troubleshooting
Problem: Fullscreen app ignores always-on-top.
Solution: Exclusive-fullscreen apps override it — use windowed/borderless mode.
Problem: Hotkey not working.
Solution: Ensure the AutoHotkey script is running (green icon in tray) and no other app uses the same hotkey.
Problem: Tool flagged by antivirus.
Solution: Download from the official source and verify; window utilities are sometimes false-flagged.
Problem: Setting lost after restart.
Solution: Add your tool/script to startup so it’s always available.
Conclusion
To keep a window always on top, pick a tool that matches your style — DeskPins for click-to-pin, WindowTop for extra features, or a tiny AutoHotkey script for a global hotkey. Download from official sources and add it to startup for convenience.
