susam/uncap
FreeMap Caps Lock to Escape or any key to any key
FreeFree tier
About susam/uncap
Uncap is a lightweight, single-file Windows executable that remaps the Caps Lock key to the Escape key (or any key to any key) with no additional scripts or rebooting required. Designed primarily for vi/Vim users, it runs in the background and allows custom mappings via command-line arguments. The README also includes detailed documentation for key remapping on Linux and Mac systems using built-in tools.
Key Features
Map Caps Lock to Escape with a single download and double-click on Windows
Map any key to any key, multiple keys, or disable keys via command-line arguments
Enable, disable, or modify key mappings without rebooting the system
Disable all mappings easily by stopping the Uncap process
Single-file executable, approximately 100 KB in size
Runs in background with negligible memory (<1 MB) and CPU usage
No additional files or scripts required beyond the executable
Documentation also covers key remapping on Linux and Mac
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable (single .exe, ~100 KB)
- Changes take effect immediately without rebooting
- Easy to terminate and revert mappings
- Simple command-line interface for custom mappings
- No external dependencies or scripting languages required
- Free and open-source under MIT license
Cons
- Windows-only for the executable (Linux/Mac remapping is documented but requires different tools)
- Limited to key-to-key mapping; no macro or complex automation support
- Known issue with Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 (details in repository)
- Requires command line for custom mappings beyond Caps Lock to Escape
Best For
Remapping Caps Lock to Escape for efficient Vim navigation on WindowsCustom key remapping for productivity or accessibility on WindowsQuickly testing key mappings without permanent registry changesPortable key remapping solution on USB drives or non-admin systems
FAQ
What does Uncap do?
Uncap remaps the Caps Lock key to the Escape key (or any key to any key) on Windows systems. It runs as a background process with no output window.
How do I use Uncap to map Caps Lock to Escape?
Download uncap.exe and double-click it. No additional steps are needed; it immediately maps Caps Lock to Escape.
How can I map a different key, like Caps Lock to Left Control?
Run uncap.exe with a command-line argument, e.g., 'uncap 0x14:0xa2' maps Caps Lock (0x14) to Left Control (0xa2). You can run this from Command Prompt or the Windows Run dialog (Win+R).
How do I stop Uncap's key mappings?
Run 'uncap -k' from Command Prompt or the Windows Run dialog to terminate Uncap and restore original key behavior.
Is Uncap free?
Yes, Uncap is free and open-source under the MIT license.