I’m testing the Typinator beta for Windows in my daily routine to see how reliably text shortcuts and Smart Elements work.
The full version is currently available for macOS. I’m currently testing the beta version for Windows. It’s not yet known when the full version will be released.
How the program works:
The program inserts frequently used text as soon as you type a predefined shortcut. This way, you don’t have to retype recurring phrases every time.
Getting Started
The installation went smoothly. Afterward, I created my own shortcuts and tested them in various programs. The shortcuts were reliably replaced, even when followed by a period.
For example, “mfg” is replaced with “Best regards,” “tp” with “techpanther.de,” and for “Jfw,” both lines are output exactly as follows: “
Julian Fuernkranz
techpanther.de.”
Even a longer text block with the abbreviation “adrx” works.
xmfg becomes “Best regards”
"Adrx" becomes "Address"
Usage and Smart Elements
You can quickly create your own abbreviations. The settings weren’t entirely self-explanatory at first. But with a little trial and error, I was able to set up my abbreviations.
I also created the abbreviation “Date” using a Smart Element for date and time. Both values are inserted correctly. A text block with an input field also works: When inserting it, I can enter a name, which then appears in the designated spot.
The Benefits of Typinator
Typinator saves time when dealing with text you use regularly. Greetings, names, web addresses, and longer responses can be inserted using short shortcuts. Templates with line breaks can also be used quickly.
Typinator’s Smart Elements are also interesting.
First, I tested the automatic insertion of the date and time. Both values were inserted correctly after entering the shortcut “Date.”
The shortcut “gruss” inserts a template with an input field: “Hello [Name1],
Thank you for your message.” When inserting it, I can enter the name, for example, “Julian.” Typinator then inserts it into the salutation: “Hello Julian,
Thank you for your message.”
My impression so far
The shortcuts and text blocks I’ve tested work reliably. I find it particularly useful that longer templates, line breaks, and variable inputs are also possible. I haven’t yet tested importing existing text blocks or syncing with the Mac version; both sound promising.
Since Typinator for Windows is still in beta, I’ll continue testing the app in my daily routine. Overall, it makes an interesting impression. For important workflows, I’d personally wait for a stable version.
Leave a Reply