How to view clipboard history?

By HotBotUpdated: July 30, 2024

Answer

Clipboard history is a valuable feature that allows users to access and manage multiple items that have been copied and cut. This can significantly enhance productivity by enabling quick retrieval of previously copied text, images, and other elements. This guide will discuss various methods to view clipboard history on different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, along with some third-party tools that can be used for the same purpose.

Viewing Clipboard History on Windows

Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer built-in clipboard history features that are easy to use. Follow these steps to activate and view clipboard history:

Enable Clipboard History

Press Win + V to open the clipboard history panel.
If clipboard history is not enabled, you’ll see a prompt to turn it on. Click Turn on.

Access Clipboard History

After enabling, press Win + V again to view your clipboard history.
A panel will appear showing the list of items you’ve copied recently.
Click on any item in the list to paste it into your current application.

Pinning and Deleting Items

To pin an item for future use, click the three dots next to the item and select Pin.
To delete items, click the three dots and select Delete.
To clear the entire history, click Clear all from the three dots menu.

Viewing Clipboard History on macOS

macOS does not have a built-in clipboard history manager like Windows. However, there are several third-party applications that can provide this functionality.

Continue

Using Third-Party Apps

Paste

Download Paste from the App Store.
Once installed, Paste will automatically start tracking your clipboard history.
Use the shortcut Command + Shift + V to view your clipboard history.

Alfred

Download Alfred from its official website.
Install and configure Alfred with the Powerpack feature.
Enable the clipboard history feature from Alfred’s preferences.
Use the designated hotkey to access your clipboard history.

Viewing Clipboard History on Linux

Linux users can take advantage of various clipboard managers to keep track of their clipboard history. Some of the popular options include:

Clipman

Install Clipman using your distribution's package manager (e.g., sudo apt install clipman).
Once installed, Clipman will start monitoring your clipboard activities.
Access clipboard history from the system tray icon or use a designated shortcut.

CopyQ

Install CopyQ using your distribution's package manager (e.g., sudo apt install copyq).
Launch CopyQ and it will start tracking your clipboard history.
Use the designated shortcut (Ctrl + Tab by default) to view your clipboard history.
CopyQ also provides advanced features such as scripting and custom commands.

Using Web Browsers for Clipboard History

Some web browsers offer clipboard history functionalities through extensions and built-in features.

Google Chrome

Install the Clipboard History Pro extension from the Chrome Web Store.
Once installed, you can access your clipboard history by clicking on the extension icon.
The extension provides options to manage and search your clipboard history.

Mozilla Firefox

Install the Copy Plain Text extension from the Firefox Add-ons website.
Though primarily for copying plain text, this extension can help manage clipboard content.
Use the extension's options to handle and view clipboard history.

Advanced Clipboard Management Tools

For users who require more advanced clipboard management, several specialized tools are available:

Ditto (Windows)

Download and install Ditto from its official website.
Ditto provides a robust clipboard manager with features like search, synchronization, and encryption.
Access clipboard history by pressing Ctrl + `.

Clipy (macOS)

Download and install Clipy from the official website.
Once installed, Clipy will track your clipboard history and provide quick access via a menu bar icon.
Use the shortcut Command + Shift + V to view and manage your clipboard history.

Parcellite (Linux)

Install Parcellite using your distribution's package manager (e.g., sudo apt install parcellite).
Launch Parcellite and it will begin tracking your clipboard history.
Access clipboard history from the system tray or use the designated shortcut.

From built-in features to third-party applications, there are numerous ways to view and manage clipboard history across different operating systems. Understanding these methods can significantly boost productivity and streamline workflows. Each tool and method offers unique features, allowing users to choose the best fit for their individual needs.