Switching between windows on Windows 11 isn’t rocket science, but it’s a bit weird how many ways there are to do it. Whether you’re jumping between tabs, a Word doc, or a game, getting the hang of these tricks can save you a fair bit of hassle. Here’s how I’ve had it working on my machine, along with a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Step-by-Step on Changing Windows on Windows 11
Getting comfy with switching can seriously speed things up. So, let’s get into it.
Method 1: Use Alt + Tab
This is the good old shortcut. Hold Alt and tap Tab. A quick switcher overlay pops up — like a cheat sheet for your open windows. Keep Alt held and tap Tab to cycle through, then let go when you see what you want. Usually works like a charm, but sometimes on certain setups, it feels a bit laggy or the view doesn’t update straight away. Still, it’s quick as a bolt.
Why it helps: super handy for flicking between things without touching the mouse or clicking icons. Perfect when you’ve got heaps of windows open.
Expect: instant switch, no dramas. Sometimes, on first try, it might lag or not show all windows, so just give it a couple of goes.
Method 2: Use Windows + Tab
Press Windows + Tab. This opens Task View. It’s like a bird’s eye of everything open — thumbnails of all your apps and desktops. Click on what you want and it’ll jump straight there. Sometimes, it’s easier than Alt+Tab, especially if your screen’s a bit cluttered.
Why it helps: gives you a full preview, not just icons or a list.
When? If Alt + Tab feels sluggish or not showing everything, this is your backup plan. Also handy for managing virtual desktops.
What to expect: a clean overview with big previews. Might take a sec to load if you’ve got tonnes of windows or heavy stuff running. Sometimes the thumbnail animations lag, but mostly it’s smooth as.
Method 3: Click on the taskbar icons
Just point, click, and switch. Click an icon on the taskbar (bottom of the screen), and that window pops up. Fair dinkum, simple but effective. If you’ve pinned your favourite apps or got a few open, it’s a quick shot.
Why use it: no shortcuts needed, no fussing around. Just click what you want.
When? If shortcuts aren’t your thing or you’re more mouse-oriented, this is your go-to.
Expect a quick switch — most of the time. Sometimes, if an app’s minimised or not loaded properly, you might need to click twice or hang on a sec, but otherwise no worries.
Method 4: Virtual Desktops
Hit the Task View button (next to Search on the taskbar), then click New Desktop. Or, tap Win + Ctrl + D to whip up a fresh virtual desktop right away. On one machine, it worked spot-on, but on another, I had to restart or switch desktops a few times before it settled down. Virtual desktops are ace if you want to keep stuff tidy — separate work from play, you know.
Why? It keeps your windows in neat little groups — perfect for organising and making switching a breeze.
When? If you’re juggling multiple jobs or need a bit of focus, it’s a bit odd but pretty effective.
What to expect: new desktops showing up in Task View, switching via Win + Ctrl + Left/Right. Just watch out — sometimes they glitch after big updates, so save your work first.
Method 5: Snap Layouts
Hover over a window’s maximize button (that little square) or click it, and you’ll see options for Snap Layouts. Pick a layout grid, and your window moves into place. You can then snap other windows around it — makes multitasking a whole lot easier. I’ve noticed older apps sometimes don’t snap perfectly, but most modern ones are spot-on.
Why? Keeps your screen tidy, especially if you want multiple windows visible side by side. Great for working on a few things at once.
When? If you’re lining up a few windows and don’t want to drag them manually all over the shop.
Expect: your windows snapped into place nicely. Sometimes, the snap menu feels a bit sluggish if your system’s busy, but mostly it runs smoothly.
Because of course, Windows has to make things a bit tricky sometimes — hiding features or hiding options away. But once you get the hang of these tricks, it all becomes second nature. Hopefully, this helps shave a bit of time off your day. Cheers!
Tips for Switching Windows on Windows 11
- Remember the shortcuts — Alt + Tab, Windows + Tab, and Win + Ctrl + arrow keys will be your mates.
- Pin what you use often — right-click on apps in the taskbar and select Pin to taskbar for a quick grab.
- Check out Snap layouts and virtual desktops: game changer for busy days.
- Touch gestures — if you’ve got a touchscreen, swipe in from the sides with three fingers to switch windows. Might be a bit quirky, but it works on a few machines.
- Practice a bit: having a go at these tricks for a few minutes makes everything feel natural sooner. On one setup, I had to reboot after enabling some features, but after that, smooth sailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the quickest way to switch windows?
Definitely Alt + Tab. It’s not fancy, but once you get used to it, it’s super quick. Task View or clicking icons can lag a second or two behind sometimes.
Can I customise the taskbar in Windows 11?
Absolutely. Right-click on the taskbar or go to Settings > Personalisation > Taskbar. Pin your go-to apps, change the alignment, even move it to the sides if you’re keen. It’s pretty flexible.
How do virtual desktops help in real life?
They’re like different rooms for your head. One for work, one for mates and stuff. Keeps the clutter down and helps you focus on what matters. Sometimes I forget which desktop I’m on, but overall, pretty handy.
Are Snap Layouts supported by all apps?
Most modern ones are, yeah. Older programs or lightweight apps might have issues, but generally, it’s pretty reliable. Worth a shot if you’re organising lots of windows.
What if I don’t see the Task View button?
Just press Windows + Tab. It’s quicker anyway once you memorise it.
Summary
- Alt + Tab rules for quick flicks.
- Windows + Tab shows everything at once if you like the visual view.
- Clicking on taskbar icons is easy as.
- Use virtual desktops to keep things tidy.
- Snap Layouts are great for organising your screen.
Some of these tricks might feel a bit odd at first, especially if your Windows isn’t all up to date or if it’s hiding options behind the scenes. But once you get your head around it, it’s dead easy. Hope this makes your life a bit smoother. Cheers!