Simple Widgets vs Windows Widgets: Complete Comparison

Overview

Windows 11 introduced a built-in widgets panel, but it has limitations that frustrate many users. Simple Widgets offers a more flexible alternative.

Key Differences

Widget Sources

Windows Widgets is limited to Microsoft’s curated selection of widgets - Weather, Calendar, Stocks, News, and a few third-party apps from the Microsoft Store.

Simple Widgets works with any website. If it loads in a browser, you can make it a widget. This includes internal tools, niche services, and websites Microsoft will never support.

Placement Freedom

Windows Widgets shows widgets in a fixed panel that slides out from the left side of the screen. You can’t place individual widgets on your desktop.

Simple Widgets lets you place widgets anywhere on your desktop. Create a custom layout that matches your workflow.

Always-On Visibility

Windows Widgets requires you to click or hover to open the widget panel. Widgets aren’t visible while you work.

Simple Widgets widgets are always visible on your desktop. You see information at a glance without any interaction.

News and Ads

Windows Widgets includes a news feed you can’t remove, filled with clickbait and content you didn’t ask for.

Simple Widgets shows only what you choose. No news feed, no ads, no unwanted content.

When to Use Each

Choose Windows Widgets if:

• You only need basic widgets (weather, calendar)
• You prefer Microsoft’s integrated experience
• You don’t mind the news feed

Choose Simple Widgets if:

• You need widgets from any website
• You want widgets always visible on desktop
• You need cross-platform support
• You want control over what appears

Can You Use Both?

Yes! Some users combine both solutions - using Windows Widgets for quick Microsoft integrations and Simple Widgets for everything else.