AutoHotkey for typing text: an easier alternative
AutoHotkey hotstrings are a Windows classic for never typing the same thing twice. Here's how they work and when something simpler makes more sense.
Many people find AutoHotkey while looking for a way to type their signature, their address or a common reply with just a few letters. It's a free and very powerful program, but everything is done by writing a small script.
If text shortcuts are all you need and you spend your day in the browser, you may not need to write any code at all. Here we compare AutoHotkey hotstrings with NexoPad, including what each does well and where each falls short.
How AutoHotkey hotstrings work
A hotstring is an abbreviation that AutoHotkey replaces with longer text. You write it in a .ahk file like this: ::btw::by the way. Every time you type btw in any Windows program, "by the way" appears instead.
By default, nothing happens until you type an ending character, such as a space, a period or Enter. If you want it to be instant, you add the * option: :*:btw::by the way. For text with several lines, you put it in parentheses below the shortcut.
Anything beyond fixed text has to be coded. Asking for a name before inserting takes functions like InputBox, and today's date takes FormatTime. Hotstrings send plain text: pasting bold text or links needs extra code that works with the clipboard.
Comparison table
| AutoHotkey | NexoPad | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free and open source | Free plan with basic usage; Pro $49/year |
| Where it works | In almost any Windows program | Only inside the browser: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera and Brave |
| Operating system | Windows only | Whichever one your browser runs on |
| How you create shortcuts | By writing a script in a .ahk file | In a visual window, no code |
| When the text is replaced | After a space, period or Enter, unless you use the * option | As soon as you finish typing the shortcut |
| Asking for details before inserting | By coding it, for example with InputBox | Fields, dropdowns and dates with variables like {{input:Name}} |
| Formatted text | Needs extra code | Yes: bold, lists and links where the website supports them |
| Using it on several computers | You copy the file yourself | Syncs with your account |
| Also | Automates keys, mouse and windows | Notes with reminders, links, clips and AI |
The same idea, no code
NexoPad uses the same idea as hotstrings, but inside your browser and without files. In the popup's Snippets view you type the text, format it if you like, pick a shortcut and you're done. The text appears as soon as you finish typing the shortcut. Only when a shortcut is the start of a longer one does it wait for you to press Space.
What you'd have to code in AutoHotkey takes one click here: a field to type a name, a list to pick an option, today's date or whatever you've copied. When you use the shortcut, a small box opens so you can fill it in. All the options are in the variables guide.
If you forget a shortcut, search for it with // right in the field or with Ctrl+K. And because your shortcuts travel with your account, you have them in your browser at home and at work without copying files around.
When to choose each
Stick with AutoHotkey if…
You need your shortcuts in desktop programs (Word, Notepad, an internal business app), you also want to automate keys or windows, or you enjoy coding and prefer something free and local.
Choose NexoPad if…
You mostly type in the browser, don't want to touch code, need forms or formatted text, use a Mac or several computers, or want to share templates with your team.
How to move your hotstrings to NexoPad
Open your .ahk file
Every line in the ::shortcut::text format is a template. Note down the ones you use in the browser.
Create them in the Snippets view
Copy the text and the shortcut. You can keep the same ones, but don't leave the same shortcut active in both programs, or the text will be inserted twice.
Swap code for variables
If you used InputBox or FormatTime, replace them with {{input:...}} or {{fecha}}. That way your script is left only for what happens outside the browser.
Frequently asked questions
Does NexoPad work in Word or other Windows programs?
No. NexoPad is a browser extension and only expands shortcuts on websites. For desktop programs, AutoHotkey or Espanso are better options.
Can I use AutoHotkey and NexoPad at the same time?
Yes. AutoHotkey hotstrings also work in the browser, so use different shortcuts in each one so they don't both fire.
Do I need to know how to code to use AutoHotkey?
For fixed text, copying the ::shortcut::text format is enough. To ask for details, add dates or paste formatted text, you do need to write some code.
Is NexoPad sync free?
Your shortcuts travel with your account on every plan, but the free plan lets you use one browser at a time. With Pro you can use up to five at once.
Published on October 14, 20266 min read
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