You don't need anything more for a quick conversion.

There’s no shortage of converter tools or apps online, many coming with friendly user interfaces to help get the job done. Yet some of these services might be sprinkled with ads while others cost money to unlock their full feature sets. Fortunately, Microsoft provides some features baked directly into Windows, so you can perform as many unit conversions as you wish, no extra installation or mobile device required!

Also read: Windows 11 Search Bar Not Working? Here’s 9 Ways to Fix It

Windows’ Search function relies on Bing not Google to provide your search results for you. But did you know that you can also use it to do a quick conversation directly from the search bar?

Also read: How to Use Windows 11 Performance Monitor

Microsoft may have shifted Cortana’s strategy but it remains a built-in Windows feature and like other virtual assistants, Cortana has no problems with performing unit conversions. In addition to providing the same functionality as Windows Search, Cortana can recognize your voice too enabling hands-free conversions.

Also read: How to View and Clear Activity History on a Windows PC

The Windows Calculator is your go to unit converting companion if you don’t have Internet access.

Also read: How to Take Advantage of Windows 11’s Improved Accessibility Tools

While you have the Cortana or Calculator app open, right-click the app’s icon on your taskbar and click “Pin to taskbar”. Once you do so, you can launch Cortana or the Windows Calculator at any time in any virtual desktop by clicking the corresponding icon on the taskbar.

Click the triple dot menu icon on the upper-left of the Cortana conversation window and go to “Settings -> Voice activation -> Voice activation privacy settings” link to launch the “Voice Activation” section. Switch on the “Let apps access voice activation services” and “Cortana” toggles and you are good to go! Now whenever you need to make a unit conversion, just say “Cortana” followed by your conversion phrase. Note that enabling this feature may reduce your laptop’s battery life and consume more memory.

Image credit: UXWing All screenshots by John Ruiz

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