Home Tech 15 Best Autohotkey Alternatives Macro Programs For Window

15 Best Autohotkey Alternatives Macro Programs For Window

Ever heard of Autohotkey? It is one of the best scripting language software for Desktop Windows, which seems more powerful than any batch file. It is an inexpensive and open-source utility tool for Microsoft Windows. 

The AutoHotkey aims to give easy-to-use shortcut keys for software automation, macro-creation, hotkeys, and keyboards. It automatically allows the automation of repetitive work in Windows apps. 

With mouse clicks and keystrokes, this tool will help you create macros and applications. You can either pen down macros manually or use a macro recorder.

It can be a hotkey if keys and buttons can be combined successfully. Hence, hotkeys can be created for the joystick,  mouse, and keyboards.

The software was recently released on October 14, 2019, and was licensed by GPL. It has a Microsoft Windows operating system and a C++ programming language.

However, Autohotkeys has sent some tools packing with incredible function and ease of use, but today, you will learn about similar software and other  AutoHotkey alternatives.

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Best Autohotkey Alternatives – Our Top Pick👌👌

Looking for better Autohotkey Alternatives Macro Programs For Windows? Continue reading to review a well-written list of free and easy-to-use scripting tools you may want to consider.

1. AutoIT

AutoIT (Download Here) is among the best Autohotkeys alternatives you can bet on anytime.

It lets helps you read a script while allowing the functions of keystrokes, executing programs, mouse clicks, automation, manipulation of Windows functions, and a whole lot of others. 

It is a collection of simulated commands, strokes, and window manipulation. In the AutoIT tool, mouse movements will help you automate many tasks that cannot be done in other scripting languages.

Best Autohotkey Alternatives

Its setup process is compatible and easy, runs effortlessly on all Windows OS, and takes little or no time to get running.

It gives you all the relief you need while performing actions on your system.

AutoIT is capable of advanced functions too. For example, it can automate simple text and clipboard functions. The best part of this Autohotkey alternative is that is easy to use. It should be an Autohokey alternative to try out.

Features of AutoIT:-

  • It is easy to learn basic and similar syntax.
  • It creates GUI.
  • AutoIT manipulates processes and Windows.
  • It can compile and turn scripts into a single executable.
  • The regular expression is used.
  • It supports Component Object Model (COM).
  • It involves the use of mouse movements and keystrokes stimulation.

AutoIT is free software that has system support for both Linux and Windows.

Autohotkey vs Autoit:-

AutoHotkey and AutoIt are powerful scripting languages that can help you automate tasks on your Windows computer.

If you need to automate simple desktop tasks or create custom keyboard shortcuts, AutoHotkey may be the better choice.

AutoIt may be the better choice if you need to automate complex GUI applications or interact with multiple windows and controls.

here is a table comparing AutoHotkey and AutoIt:-

Feature AutoHotkey AutoIt
Programming Language AutoHotkey uses its own scripting language based on the syntax of the AutoIt scripting language. AutoIt uses its own scripting language that is similar to BASIC.
Ease of Use AutoHotkey is generally considered easier to learn and use due to its more modern syntax and user-friendly documentation. AutoIt is also easy to learn, but its syntax may be more challenging for beginners.
Scripting Capabilities AutoHotkey has many scripting capabilities, including automation, hotkeys, macros, and GUI scripting. AutoIt also has automation, hotkeys, macros, and GUI scripting capabilities, but some users feel that AutoHotkey is better suited for certain tasks.
Community Support AutoHotkey’s large and active community provides extensive documentation, forums, and user-contributed scripts. AutoIt also has a large community but may not be as active as AutoHotkey’s.
Platform Compatibility AutoHotkey is primarily designed for Windows but can also run on Linux and macOS with additional software. AutoIt is primarily designed for Windows but can also run on Wine for Linux and macOS.
Licensing AutoHotkey is released under an open-source license (GNU General Public License), meaning it is free to use, distribute, and modify. AutoIt is free for personal and commercial use, but its source code is unavailable, and its licensing is more restrictive.

2. Pulover’s Macro Creator

Pulover’s Macro Creator (Download Here) helps you easily record the movement of the mouse via clicks on the displayed Windows screen and keystrokes. Actions may be played pr paused depending on the user. 

Pulover’s Macro Creator helps you get tasks done faster, especially when you have repetitive tasks. Multiple macros can run programs, delete, send, and read copies for single-user projects.

Furthermore, the software supports a specific function made by a user ranging from image search, taking screenshots, search files, folder, resize, move, and many other functions performed.

Moreover, it supports user-defined functions from image search, taking screenshots, search files and folders, move, resize, and much more.

Webinar part 1 feat. Pulover's Macro Creator

 This is an Autohotkey alternative for any user.

Features of Pulover’s Macro Creator:-

  • It supports advanced loops
  • Control and Windows commands
  • Image and pixel searches can be done.
  • Functions and variables
  • It has a user-defined function system.

This is free software that can be used on a Windows system.

3. PhraseExpress

PhraseExpress is used to write repetitive texts and expressions. For those who find it hard to construct a different type of expression, PhraseExpress should be your number one plug. 

It consists of customized keyboard shortcuts to insert text parts you cannot do without whenever you are writing.

This is done so that you do not always have to type those parts repeatedly when you want to use them. 

Best Autohotkey Alternatives 1

PhraseExpress is supported on any Windows application, and programs can be automatically set. You can launch programs, correct words that are wrongly spelled, increase the keyboard’s function and manage emails signature efficiently without much hassle. 

This software takes care of every nitty-gritty detail you can sometimes overlook. You wouldn’t want to miss out on this Autohotkey alternative. 

PhraseExpress is free and is supported on Windows, Mac, IOS, and Linux. 

It is important to always read the user manual of every software before downloading it to avoid unforeseen issues.

Features of PhraseExpress:-

  • It uses tabular forms.
  • As you type, every form adapts.
  • It uses Macro Recorder Support.
  • Macros are in a single place.
  • It has an AI-powered text translation.
  • There is usually an output preview of forms.
  • Lightweight code-free phrases.

4. Arduino IDE

This Autohotkey alternative is one you should try out immediately. Arduino IDE makes it easy for programming newbies to understand the rudiments of programming without the feeling of frustration. 

It has an easy community-driven system interface that perfectly makes coding simple to do through the use of a specific programming function. 

The best part of it is that it has an easy-to-understand auto-format system that takes users very little time to master. This software is support on Windows and Linux.

Features of Arduino IDE:-

  • It has a serial monitor.
  • The auto-format function is simple.
  • It has a programmer function.
  • Burn bootloader.
  • The software supports sketch editing tools.
  • Sketches management.

5. Python

This is another best Autohotkey alternative that you should check out. Python is a big deal amongst newbies, programmers, and programmer experts. Its software can easily blend with SOL and Java PHP. 

Python is used in many industries, and the best part about it is that it is a combination of web development and the programming of networks.

You will find it easy to learn because of its language, as it provides users with more traditional options.

This software can be downloaded from its main source website since it is free and open. It can be used on Windows, Mac, and OS X systems.

How to Make Hotkeys in Python

Features of Python:-

  • It has a cross-platform language.
  • The language is expressive.
  • Python is easy to learn and use.
  • It has an object-oriented language.
  • Comprises of a huge standard library.
  • The language it uses can be read, understood, and interpreted.

AutoHotkey vs Python:-

AutoHotkey is a great choice if you need to automate repetitive tasks in a Windows environment. Python is likely the better option if you need to develop complex applications or work with data.

Here’s a comparison table of AutoHotkey vs Python:-

Feature AutoHotkey Python
Purpose Automation scripting language primarily used for Windows automation tasks, such as macro creation, hotkeys, and GUI automation The general-purpose programming language used for web development, data science, automation, and more
Syntax Similar to C++ and Basic syntax Clean and easy-to-read syntax
Learning Curve Easy to learn with a small learning curve Can be more difficult to learn for beginners
Platform Windows only Cross-platform
Community support A small community with limited resources Large community with extensive resources and libraries
Performance Good performance for automation tasks Excellent performance for most tasks
Libraries Limited libraries and modules available A huge number of libraries and modules are available
Popularity Less popular compared to Python One of the most popular programming languages
Debugging Basic debugging features available Advanced debugging features are available
GUI support Built-in support for creating GUI applications Extensive GUI frameworks available
Database support Limited database support A large number of database libraries are available
Web development Not suitable for web development Suitable for web development with frameworks like Django and Flask

6. WinAutomation

The WinAutomation tool gives you total control, and you can automate every process that is taking place on your desktop. This tool allows users to automate web pages and applications.

By extracting data from local files, this tool chooses and completes your web forms with the assistance of a macro recorder/web recorder.

It is one of the fastest and most efficient tools you can lay your hands on. 

15 Best Autohotkey Alternatives Macro Programs For Window

WinAutomation helps you to update your database with every detail/data you might ever need from your email.

This tool also allows for the extraction of data from any web page into a worksheet or text file of your choice. 

WinAutomation Overview

Features of WinAutomation:-

  • You can multitask with it
  • It uses a Macro recorder for speed and efficiency
  • It has an automation process for mouse and keyboard
  • Automation for Desktop and Web
  • For security purposes, it has triggers and system monitoring
  • You can automate emails data into an Excel sheet
  • Automation for FTP
  • UI designer
  • The auto-login makes accessing easy
  • It has a process designer

7. Actionaz

Actionaz is also called ‘Action’ and is one of the best tools for automation. Just as the name implies, it lets you execute lots of action at a single goal. No programming language is needed to use this tool as it is free and can be used on Windows 10, 8, 7, and Linux systems.

For an advanced user to use this tool, the use of JavaScript is advised as it will enhance the functions. 

It is developed in Qt and C++ and can also support Ubuntu and Windows 64 and 32 bits.

Features of Actionaz:-

  • The automation process is one of the best
  • It improves team collaboration
  • Increases office productivity
  • Makes use of a Macro recorder

8. TinyTask

TinyTask is software that does a simple automation process by recording playback. Recently, TinyTask has an EXE compiler that brings every bit of scattered program together.

This software does not need an installer for you to use and does not affect your usage of other files or applications on your system

Features of TinyTask:-

  • It reports bugs found in your system
  • The automation process is user friendly
  • EXE compiler to assemble scattered programs together
  • It has a portable task process
  • It makes use of command recording

9. AutoKey

The AutoKey is another good Autohotkey alternative you can opt for when searching for a new tool to use. 

AutoKey was previously named AutoKey Py3 and it works perfectly on a Windows 11 and Linux system. 

It allows users to gather scripts and execute programs that are needed for the user. The AutoKey software is a free and open-source tool that can be downloaded easily.

Features of AutoKey:-

  • Scripts in AutoKey can be assigned
  • It launches proge=rams and uses scripts
  • It doesn’t tamper with files and folders
  • Movements can be done by clicking a mouse
  • It manipulates Windows and works perfectly for loops that are running within the system
  • Uses open documents
  • Variables can be manipulated and retrieved

10. UI Vision Kantu

The UI Vision Kantu is a browser extension that automates the web and applications of your system. This extension gives the necessary security assurance that a user needs before opting for this open-source tool.

It sure is an Autohotkey alternative users can download when they use it. It can be used on a Mac, Windows, and Linux system that supports Chrome, and firefox apps.

Web and Desktop Automation with UI Vision - Free RPA Software

The app helps to verify website layout and canvas elements for programmers, developers, and designers. It recognizes images, resizes Windows, and has lots of other browser resolutions you want to.

Features of UI Vision Kantu:-

  • It has a Google Chrome extension
  • It automates business process
  • It completes code
  • It has room for auto-update
  • Web scraping is anonymous
  • Form filler is automatic

11. Hammerspoon

This automation software links the Lua scripting engine and the operating system which is very powerful for any OS X system. 

When you decide to get Hammerspoon as an Autohotkey alternative, you should know that it is a collection of browser extensions that you special automation power for efficiency and speed.

Hammerspoon can be used to write codes and connect to an OS X, Windows, mouse pointers, WiFi, batteries, clipboards, screens, filesystem objects, location services, screens, and any audio devices.

Exploring the many features of Hammerspoon is necessary before downloading so that you do not put your device at a risk but if you feel it is safe for you, you can go ahead to download. Explore as much as you want to and if you do not find it interesting, remove the browser extension from your system.

Hammerspoon is made by plugins called spoons. It works well when you write in Lua by connecting you to all other actions you require. 

It provides you with keyboard shortcuts, some Windows operations, and works with Applescript. WiFi can be used to run lots of commands and when you are running low on battery, a display alert will let you know. 

Hammerspoon lets you play iTunes automatically when MAC detects it running on your system.

Features of Hammerspoon:-

  • It gives you access to core Hammerspoon functionality
  • It manipulates the system’s audio devices
  • Provides you with a simple on-screen alert display
  • Automates tasks
  • You can watch apps launch and termination events
  • Automatically inspects source of audio devices data
  • Find hs. Window and application objects

12. Macro Express

This is a windows macro utility tool that allows users to record, edit, and playback keyboard and mouse macros.

The robust nature and powerful feature of the Macro Express tool make it stand out amongst all other Autohotkey alternatives. 

The Macro Express is a given set of written down instructions or an easy keystroke/mouse action done.

A 60 second overview of Macro Express

It is time-efficient as a user may not have a need to repeat a given task continually. This effective way of managing time makes the Macro Express more desirable to users than the others.

Due to its automation capabilities, the wear and tear that our hands go through while typing is avoided as it automatically takes away that burden.

Features of Macro express:-

  • It creates a lot of macro files
  • The macroscope properties are used to define when a macro will run or not
  • It creates and runs macros

13. Phrase Express

This tool relieves you from typing normal text phrases which is the major reason why it uses texts and snippets given by the macro tool.

Phrase express helps you abbreviate easily while giving you the option to expand or modify abbreviations too.

It provides you with an easy-to-use automation process that helps you complete repetitive tasks.

This is by far one great Autohotkey alternative tool to use as it has no room for spelling errors with quick access to Windows clipboard history when you have a need to use it.

14. JitBit Micro Recorder

This Autohotkey alternative tool is a strong automation tool that converts macros into similar EXE files.  It is an easy-to-use tool with no need for a prior programing language experience. 

Best Autohotkey Alternatives 2

The simple EXE file JitBit converts macros into can be used on all Windows versions with no exception. 

To use the JitBit Micro Recorder, you need to your keyboard or mouse macros to hotkeys and then you can run them from any app on your system. 

Jitbit Macro Recorder tutorial

Features of JitBit Micro Recorder:-

  • Very Flexible
  • Easy usage
  • It offers users the stealth mode option
  • It concerts macros into simple EXE files you can access
  • Offers loop the macro playback option
  • Very accessible
  • It gives different playback speeds of your choice
  • You can run the software from any of your applications as long as you have assigned mouse and keyboard macros to hotkeys 

15. HotKeyz

This is another Autohotkeys alternative and a convenient utility tool that boosts the productivity of your tasks. 

With HotKeyz, the use of a mouse is not necessary which makes working with it much faster and bearable.  It helps you have a well-organized list of hotkeys where interaction is solely based on commands you assign.

Its automation prowess takes care of repetitive tasks, which reduces the time and effort spent using the tool. 

📗FAQ’s

What are alternatives to Autohotkeys?

Some alternatives to AutoHotkey are AutoIt, AutoKey, and SikuliX. Each program offers similar functionality to AutoHotkey, including the ability to automate tasks, create hotkeys, and simulate mouse and keyboard input.

Which is better AutoHotkey or AutoIt?

Both AutoHotkey and AutoIt are powerful automation tools with their own strengths and weaknesses. AutoHotkey is more beginner-friendly and has a larger community, while AutoIt is more flexible and can be used to create more complex automation scripts. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What is the Linux equivalent of AutoHotkey?

AutoKey is a popular automation tool for Linux similar to AutoHotkey in functionality. It allows users to create hotkeys, automate tasks, and simulate mouse and keyboard input.

Is AutoHotkey freeware?

Yes, AutoHotkey is a free and open-source program available for download from its official website.

Can Python replace AHK?

Python can create automation scripts and simulate mouse and keyboard input, but it may not be as beginner-friendly or as feature-rich as AutoHotkey.

Is AHK better than Python?

AutoHotkey may be better than Python for certain automation tasks, focusing on automating keyboard and mouse input. However, Python is a more versatile language and can be used for various programming tasks.

Is it safe to use AutoIt?

Yes, AutoIt is a safe program if downloaded from a reputable source and used responsibly.

Is using AutoHotkey bannable?

AutoHotkey is not inherently bannable, but using it to automate gameplay in online games may be against the game’s terms of service and result in a ban.

Is AutoHotkey detectable in games?

Game developers can detect the use of AutoHotkey in their games, especially if it is being used to automate gameplay. However, this will depend on the specific game and how it detects cheats.

How to create hotkeys in Linux?

Hotkeys can be created in Linux using a program such as AutoKey or by manually configuring them in the system settings.

What is Metakey on Linux?

The Meta key on a Linux keyboard is equivalent to the Windows key on a Windows keyboard. It is often used as a modifier key for system-level keyboard shortcuts.

What is an example of Xdotool?

An example of using Xdotool in Linux is to simulate a mouse click with the command “xdotool click 1”, where “1” represents the left mouse button.

What is the difference between AutoHotkey and AutoKey?

AutoHotkey and AutoKey are both automation tools, but AutoHotkey primarily focuses on automating keyboard and mouse input, while AutoKey focuses more on text expansion and system-level hotkeys.

What coding language does AutoHotkey use?

AutoHotkey uses its own scripting language based on the syntax of the AutoIt scripting language.

Is AutoHotkey worth it?

Whether or not AutoHotkey is worth it will depend on your specific needs and how much you value automation and hotkey creation.

Is AutoIt detected as a virus?

AutoIt is not a virus, but some antivirus programs can detect it due to its ability to simulate user input and automate tasks.

Why is AutoIt used?

AutoIt is used for automation tasks, such as filling out forms, clicking buttons, and sending keystrokes. It can also be used for creating macros and automating repetitive tasks.

Which is the spy tool of AutoIt?

AutoIt is not a spy tool but can be used to automate tasks that may be considered spyware or malware.

Is AutoHotkey a spyware?

AutoHotkey is not a spyware, but it can be used to automate tasks that may be considered spyware or malware.

Is it cheating if you use AutoHotkey?

Whether or not using AutoHotkey in a game is considered cheating will depend on the specific game’s terms of service and how it defines cheating.

Are Zen scripts detectable?

Zen scripts can be detectable by some anti-cheat systems in games, especially if they are being used to automate gameplay.

Do you get banned for AFK?

Whether or not you can get banned for being AFK in a game will depend on the specific game’s terms of service and how it defines AFK.

Are macros illegal in games?

Using macros in games can be against the game’s terms of service and result in a ban. However, some games may allow certain types of macros.

Is there a Ctrl Z for Linux?

Yes, the keyboard shortcut for undoing changes in Linux is usually Ctrl+Z.

What is a hyperkey?

A hyperkey is a keyboard key that is used as a modifier key to create custom keyboard shortcuts.

What is a meh key?

A meh key is a keyboard key that is used as a modifier key in the X Window System to create custom keyboard shortcuts.

What is the diamond key on a keyboard?

The diamond key, also known as the super key or the Windows key, is a keyboard key that is used as a modifier key to create custom keyboard shortcuts.

What is the use of Xdotool?

Xdotool is a program for simulating user input in Linux, which can be used for tasks such as automating GUI interactions and creating custom keyboard shortcuts.

What is the alternative to Xdotool?

SikuliX is an alternative to Xdotool for automating GUI interactions in Linux and other platforms.

What is the function of Xdotool?

The function of Xdotool is to simulate user input in Linux, which can be used for tasks such as automating GUI interactions and creating custom keyboard shortcuts.

What is the weakness of AutoKey?

One weakness of AutoKey is that it may not be as flexible as other automation tools, such as AutoHotkey, for more complex tasks.

Is Excel handling available in AutoHotkey?

Yes, AutoHotkey can automate tasks in Excel, such as filling out forms and running macros.

How much does AutoHotkey cost?

AutoHotkey is a free and open-source program, and therefore does not cost anything to use.

Can Notepad++ be used for AutoHotkey?

Yes, Notepad++ is a popular text editor for editing AutoHotkey scripts.

Is AutoHotkey a macro?

AutoHotkey can be used to create macros, but it is also a more powerful automation tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks.

What is the difference between MouseClick and click AHK?

“MouseClick” and “click” are both AutoHotkey commands for simulating mouse clicks, but “MouseClick” is more flexible and can be used to specify the location and type of mouse click, while “click” is a simpler command that clicks the left mouse button by default.

Can AutoHotkey record mouse movement?

Yes, AutoHotkey can be used to record and playback mouse movements and clicks, as well as keyboard input.

Final Thoughts

All the above-mentioned Autohotkey alternatives are at your disposal when you need to make work-life easy. 

Most of them are free, open-source, and easy to use. You do not necessarily need to know programming before you can use them. 

You should get their software version to get the best out of their services. This will give you unlimited access to automation options that will blow your mind away.  Giving all the time you need by managing tasks efficiently 

Feel free to explore them and pick out what works best for you.

Don’t forget to tell us your favorite Autohotkey alternative in the comment section.