Files matter
Keep PDFs and other copied files with the text and images already in your history.
Windows clipboard history and clipboard manager guide
Press Win+V to open the built-in Windows clipboard history. If you need file history, dedicated snippets, larger limits, compose packs, or the same workflow on Mac, PasteDock goes further.
How to open clipboard history on Windows
Press Windows V. The first time, select Turn on. Choose an earlier item to paste it or pin items you want Windows to keep.
PasteDock opens its searchable history with Alt Ctrl V and its compact HUD with Alt Ctrl C.
What Windows clipboard history keeps
Microsoft documents a maximum of 25 copied entries. Older entries are removed automatically unless pinned, and unpinned history is cleared when the PC restarts. Each item is limited to 4 MB; supported formats are text, HTML, and bitmap images.
Turn it on
Press Windows V, then select Turn on. You can also use Settings → System → Clipboard.
Pin an item
Open Win+V and pin an entry you need after a restart. Unpinned entries are temporary.
Clear all
Open Win+V and select Clear all, or use Settings → System → Clipboard → Clear.
Delete one item
Open Win+V, choose the menu beside the item, then select Delete.
Win+V vs PasteDock clipboard manager
| Feature | Windows clipboard history | PasteDock |
|---|---|---|
| Open history | Windows V | Alt Ctrl V |
| History size | 25 entries | Free 50; Pro default 500 and configurable |
| Supported content | Text, HTML, bitmap up to 4 MB | Text, images, and files |
| After restart | Only pinned entries remain | History persists locally |
| Reusable content | Pin items | Dedicated snippets with attachments |
| Multi-item workflow | Paste one item | Multi-select and compose packs |
| Mac companion | No | Yes, same license |
When to use PasteDock on Windows
You need more than 25 items
Free keeps 50 history items. Pro starts at 500 and allows a larger configured limit.
You repeat the same replies
Save daily messages, addresses, images, and attachments in a permanent snippet list.
You switch between PC and Mac
Use the same layout and membership across Windows and macOS.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open clipboard history on Windows?
Press Windows V. If it is disabled, select Turn on.
Why did my clipboard history disappear after restart?
Microsoft says Windows clears clipboard history after restart except for pinned entries. PasteDock persists its local history.
How do I clear clipboard history?
Use Settings → System → Clipboard → Clear, or Win+V → Clear all. Pinned Windows items remain. See the complete clear clipboard history guide.
Keep more than Win+V
Download the Windows clipboard manager with local history, files, snippets, and compose paste.
Download PasteDock for Windows