How to Use Emojis on Windows?

Emojis have transformed the way we communicate, adding tone and clarity to digital messages. While most smartphone users insert emojis effortlessly, many Windows users remain unaware of the simple tools available on their computers. This gap limits expressiveness in emails, chats, and documents. So, how can one easily use emojis on a Windows device? This guide answers that by outlining keyboard shortcuts, touch-screen options, third-party tools like GetEmoji, and integration within WPS Office. With these methods, anyone can enhance their communication using emojis right from their Windows system.

Part 1: How to Use the Built-in Emoji Keyboard Shortcut

Windows 10 and 11 come with a built-in emoji panel that many users overlook. This feature is incredibly useful for quickly adding emojis without switching apps or interrupting your workflow. It works system-wide and is compatible with most modern applications, including WPS Office, web browsers, and messaging platforms.

Steps to Use the Emoji Shortcut Panel:

1. Click into any text field—this could be in a document, chat box, email, or form.

2. Press Windows Key + . (period) or Windows Key + ; (semicolon) on your keyboard.

3. The emoji panel will pop up near your cursor.

4. Browse through categories like smileys, animals, food, and symbols—or use the search bar at the top to find something specific.

5. Click on the emoji you want, and it will be inserted directly where your cursor is.

6. Press Esc or click outside the panel to close it once you're done.

Bonus Tip: This panel also includes kaomojis (ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ) and symbols like currency, arrows, and math signs—perfect for academic or professional use.

Personal Experience:
I rely on this shortcut daily—especially when writing casual emails, chat messages, or even social media posts. It’s incredibly fast and keeps me in the flow of writing without having to reach for the mouse or open external tools. Once you get used to it, it becomes second nature and can even boost your writing tone by making messages more expressive and relatable.

Part 2: How to Access Emojis via the On-Screen Keyboard

For users on touch-enabled devices or those who prefer a visual interface, the Windows On-Screen Keyboard offers an easy and accessible way to insert emojis. This method is especially practical for tablet users, 2-in-1 laptops, or when a physical keyboard isn't available. It’s built right into Windows, so there’s no need to install extra software.

Steps to Enable and Use the Emoji Keyboard:

1. Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and select “Show touch keyboard button.”

2. A small keyboard icon will appear near the system tray—click on it to launch the on-screen keyboard.

3. Once the keyboard pops up, tap the smiley face emoji icon in the lower-left corner.

4. Browse through the emoji categories or scroll to find your desired emoji.

5. Tap the emoji to insert it directly into any active text field—whether in WPS Office, a web browser, or a messaging app.

Why Does This Method Stands Out?

• Great for touch screens and stylus users

• Doesn’t require memorizing shortcuts

• Useful for accessibility or when the physical keyboard is disabled

Personal Experience:
Although it's a bit slower than using the keyboard shortcut (Windows Key +.), I’ve found the on-screen emoji keyboard to be a user-friendly and reliable backup—especially when using my hybrid laptop in tablet mode. It feels natural to tap and select emojis, and the layout is spacious enough to navigate easily with fingers. It's my go-to method when working on the go or when I just want to give my wrists a break from typing.

Part 3: Third-Party Tool for Enhanced Emoji Access

While the built-in Windows emoji panel is convenient, sometimes users need a broader selection, specific styles, or easier access across different platforms. That’s where third-party tools like GetEmoji.com come in. It’s a free, browser-based emoji directory that offers a wide range of emojis in a clean, easy-to-navigate layout—no plugins or downloads required.

Example Tool: GetEmoji.com – Simple and Versatile
If you're looking for emojis that match a certain tone, brand aesthetic, or are optimized for web use, this tool can be a great addition to your digital toolkit.

Steps to Use GetEmoji.com:

1. Go to GetEmoji.com in your browser.

  2. Use the search bar or scroll through categories to find your desired emoji.

  3. Highlight and copy the emoji directly from the site.

  4. Paste it into your WPS document, email, chat, or social media post.

Pro Tip: Bookmark the site or pin it to your browser’s toolbar for quicker access during your writing sessions.

Personal Experience:
I often turn to GetEmoji when I'm looking for a more expressive or visually consistent emoji—especially for social media captions, blog posts, or emails where tone matters. Compared to the built-in panel, GetEmoji provides a larger, clearer display of emojis and makes it easy to copy without extra steps. It’s a go-to resource when I want to be more creative or when I’m working on content that requires a unique look and feel. It complements my workflow perfectly alongside WPS Office.

Part 4: How to Enhance Your Experience with WPS Office

WPS Office stands out as a powerful yet lightweight productivity suite that rivals Microsoft Office, especially for users seeking speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It's fully compatible with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats, allowing seamless document handling without any formatting issues.

Insert Emojis in WPS Office: A Simple Guide

1. Launch any WPS application—Writer, Presentation, or Spreadsheet.

2. Click into a text field where you want the emoji.

3. Press Windows Key +. (period) to open the emoji panel.

4. Browse or search emojis and click to insert directly into your document.

Why Choose WPS Office?

• Supports all major file types including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX

• Takes up only 300MB of space—ideal for low-storage or older devices

• Intuitive UI that’s beginner-friendly yet robust for professional use

• Includes AI-enhanced tool like grammar checks, templates, and PDF editing

• Regular updates with new features—all without subscription fees

Personal Experience
WPS Office has truly transformed my productivity on my aging laptop. Unlike bulky alternatives, it loads in seconds and runs without lag. I especially love how easily I can add emojis using the Windows shortcut—no add-ons or special plugins required. Whether I'm working on reports, slides, or spreadsheets, everything just works smoothly and looks professional.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use emojis in all Windows applications?

Most modern Windows apps support emojis. Older programs might display them as empty boxes or not render them at all.

Q2: How to search for a specific emoji?

Open the emoji panel with Windows + ., then type a word like “heart” or “star” in the search bar.

Summary

Emojis bring warmth, emotion, and clarity to everyday digital communication—and with Windows, accessing them is easier than ever. Whether you're using the quick Windows + . shortcut, navigating the touch-friendly on-screen keyboard, or turning to helpful third-party tools like GetEmoji.com, there's a method for every device and user preference. These options empower you to express more, faster. Even better, WPS Office supports emoji integration smoothly across its suite of tools—whether you're drafting a document in Writer, creating a vibrant presentation, or organizing data in Spreadsheets.

Unlike heavier alternatives like Microsoft Office, WPS offers a lightweight, free, and intuitive platform that doesn’t sacrifice performance. With built-in AI features, robust compatibility with major file types, and seamless emoji handling, it enhances your workflow without slowing you down. If you're seeking a modern office suite that’s responsive, emoji-friendly, and tailored for real-world productivity, WPS Office is your go-to solution. It proves that professional tools can be efficient, expressive, and enjoyable to use.