Moving Windows on Windows 11: A Quick Guide

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11, ensuring you can customize your setup to fit your needs perfectly.

To begin with, here is a quick step guide to move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11:  

  • Press the Windows key + Tab to open the Task View.
  • Click and drag the window you want to move to the desired monitor.
  • Alternatively, press the Windows key + Left/Right arrow to move the window to the left or right monitor.
  • You can also right-click on the window’s title bar and select ‘Move to’ and then choose the desired monitor.

Note that this is just an overview of the basic steps. As you continue reading the entire blog, you will discover several more methods, each with their detailed step-by-step instructions for moving windows to another monitor in Windows 11.   

Understanding Multiple Monitor Setup

First off, let’s clear up why using multiple monitors can boost your productivity. For example, imagine having your email open on one screen while working on a document on another.

If you need to move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11, you can easily do so to enhance your workflow and keep everything organized.

As a result, there’s no more clicking back and forth—everything is in your line of sight.

Studies show that using multiple monitors can increase productivity by up to 30%. That’s a serious edge in any workspace.

Preparing Your Setup

Before you start moving windows, make sure your monitors are correctly set up. Here’s how to do it in Windows 11:

  • Connect Your Monitors: First, plug in your additional monitors to your computer. Most modern setups use HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C.
  • Open Settings: Next, press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  • Navigate to System > Display: Then,  you’ll see the visual layout of your monitors. If they’re not detected, click on the Detect button.

Also Check: How can you fix the issue of Windows 11 not detecting a second monitor ?

Setting Up Display Preferences

Now, here’s where you configure how your monitors behave:

Rearrange Displays: Drag and drop the monitor icons to match the physical arrangement on your desk. Consequently, this helps Windows know where one screen ends and another begins.

Choose Display Modes: Furthermore, you can select from several modes:

  • Duplicate: In this mode, shows the same screen on both monitors.
  • Extend: Subsequently, makes all monitors act as one big screen.
  • Second screen only: Finally, uses only the second monitor.

How to move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11 ?  

Windows 11 offers several convenient methods to easily move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11, improving productivity and workspace organization. Let’s explore these techniques in detail:

Method 1: Drag and Drop

  • Connect Your Monitors: Firstly, ensure that both monitors are connected to your computer and are recognized by Windows 11.
  • Select the Window: Secondly, click on the title bar of the window you want to move.
  • Drag the Window: Then, hold down the left mouse button and drag the window towards the edge of the screen in the direction of the other monitor.
  • Move to the Other Monitor: finally, continue dragging until the window crosses over to the other monitor. Release the mouse button to drop the window in the desired location.

Method 2: Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Select the Window: Initially, click on the window you want to move to make sure it is active.
  • Use the Keyboard Shortcut: Subsequently, press Windows + Shift + Left Arrow or Windows + Shift + Right Arrow depending on the direction you want to move the window. This will instantly move the active window to the adjacent monitor.

Method 3: Taskbar Options

  • Right-Click on the Taskbar: First, if you have multiple windows open, right-click on the taskbar icon of the window you want to move.
  • Select “Move”: Then, click on the “Move” option from the context menu.
  • Use Arrow Keys: Next, after selecting “Move,” use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move the window to the desired monitor. Once it reaches the edge of the screen, it will transition to the other monitor.
  • Press Enter: Finally, once the window is in the desired position, press Enter to drop it there.

Also Check: How to copy path of an EXE file in Windows 11 ?

Method 4: Snap Layouts

  • Select the Window: to begin, click on the window you want to move.
  • Use Snap Assist: Next, hover your mouse over the maximize button (the square icon) in the top right corner of the window. This will display Snap Layouts.
  • Choose a Layout: Then, select a layout that suits your needs. If you want to move the window to another monitor, you can drag it to the desired position in the layout.
  • Release the Window: Lastly, once you’ve selected the layout, release the window, and it will snap into place on the other monitor.

Method 5: Display Settings

  • Open Display Settings: Firstly, right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.”
  • Identify Monitors: Secondly, in the Display settings window, you will see a visual representation of your monitors. Click on “Identify” to see which monitor is which.
  • Adjust Display Arrangement: Then, you can drag and rearrange the monitors in the settings to match their physical arrangement on your desk. This will help when moving windows between them.
  • Apply Changes: Finally, click “Apply” to save any changes you make.  

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things might not go as smoothly as planned when you try to move Windows to another monitor on Windows 11. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

  • Monitor Not Detected: Firstly, ensure your cables are securely connected. Use the Detect button in the Display settings.
  • Incorrect Resolution: Additionally, if your monitors aren’t displaying correctly, adjust the resolution in the Display settings.
  • Window Snapping Problems: Moreover, ensure Snap Assist is enabled. Go to Settings > System > Multitasking and toggle on Snap Windows.

Also Check: What is the default image viewer in Windows 11 ?

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered the different methods to move windows to another monitor on Windows 11, you can create a more efficient and productive workspace.

Furthermore, whether you prefer the simple drag-and-drop method, quick keyboard shortcuts, or using Snap Layouts, Windows 11 offers flexible options to suit your work style.

Additionally, remember that practice makes perfect – try different methods to find what works best for you. If you encounter any problems, don’t forget to check our troubleshooting section.

With these tools at your disposal, you can transform your multi-monitor setup into a seamless workspace that improves your productivity and makes multitasking a breeze.

Source: [ howtogeek, reddit, superuser, techsolutions.support ]

Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)

How do I move a window to another screen in Windows 11 ?  

To move a window to another screen in Windows 11, click and hold the title bar, then drag it to the edge of your monitor until it crosses over. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Windows + Shift + Left Arrow or Windows + Shift + Right Arrow to quickly transfer the window.

How do I move a window to another desktop in Windows 11 ?

Open Task View: Press Windows + Tab to view all your open windows.
Drag the Window: Click and hold the window you want to move, then drag it to the desired desktop thumbnail.
Release: Release the mouse button to place the window on the new desktop.

How do I force a window to move to another monitor ?

To force a window to move to another monitor, right-click the window’s taskbar icon and select “Move.” Then, use the arrow keys to shift the window to the desired monitor. Once it reaches the edge, press Enter to place it there.


Content Writer

Smith Ron, the writer at Assistme360. He has extensive experience in crafting straightforward, step-by-step guides for technical issues. His broad knowledge ensures accurate solutions. Kindly spare a moment to drop a comment down and express your opinions. Your feedback can be valuable in assisting others who may come across similar problems.


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