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Character Map vs Extra Keys

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Character Map icon
Character Map
Extra Keys icon
Extra Keys

Character Map vs Extra Keys: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Character Map Extra Keys
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

Character Map
Character Map

Description: Character Map is a utility in Windows that allows users to view and copy characters from various fonts installed on their computer. It can be useful for finding symbols, accented letters, or other obscure characters.

Type: software

Extra Keys
Extra Keys

Description: Extra Keys is a free on-screen virtual keyboard software for Windows. It provides an additional customizable keyboard overlay allowing you to map custom shortcuts, macros, text snippets, emojis, and more for quick access while typing.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

Character Map
Character Map Features
  • View all characters in any font installed on your computer
  • Search for characters by name or by code point value
  • Preview characters in different font sizes
  • Copy characters to the clipboard
  • Zoom in to see characters in more detail
  • Compare characters across multiple fonts
  • View character metadata like Unicode name and code point
Extra Keys
Extra Keys Features
  • On-screen virtual keyboard overlay
  • Fully customizable layouts and keys
  • Macro support
  • Text snippets
  • Emoji picker
  • Multiple keyboard profiles
  • Touchscreen support
  • Windows Hello support

Pros & Cons Analysis

Character Map
Character Map
Pros
  • Easy way to find and insert special characters
  • No need to memorize or lookup character codes
  • Supports all fonts installed on your system
  • Lightweight and fast
Cons
  • Limited functionality compared to more full-featured font tools
  • Cannot edit or create new characters
  • Does not allow font installation or management
  • Only includes fonts installed locally, not web fonts
Extra Keys
Extra Keys
Pros
  • Very customizable
  • Lots of shortcut options
  • Touchscreen friendly
  • Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
  • Limited to Windows OS
  • Can conflict with some games
  • No mobile app

Pricing Comparison

Character Map
Character Map
  • Not listed
Extra Keys
Extra Keys
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

Character Map
Character Map
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Extra Keys
Extra Keys
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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