The split screen feature on Chromebooks/ChromeOS is a useful function that allows users to view and work on two windows simultaneously. This can enhance productivity and multitasking, especially for tasks that require switching between different tabs or applications. There are different ways to use the split screen feature on Chromebooks, depending on the device type and user preference.
Limitations of the Chromebook Split Screen Feature
The split screen feature of ChromeOS has some limitations that users should be aware of. There are several reasons why you might be unable to achieve a split screen on your Chromebook device:
- The Chromebook might be in tablet mode, which does not support split screen by default.
- The split screen shortcut might be disabled on some models.
- You might have clicked the maximize button on the window they want to use for split screen, which prevents it from being resized.
Additionally, you should note that by default, the split screen mode splits the screen 50/50, which might not be suitable for some apps or tasks. You can adjust the window sizes by hovering the mouse cursor over the vertical line between the windows and dragging it left or right. However, this adjustment might not be precise enough for some users who prefer more control over their window layouts.
How to use Split Screen on a Chromebook via Drag and Drop
- Move the cursor to the menu bar of the open window and drag+drop it to the left or right side of the screen
- A gray outline of the window appears on the edge of the screen
- After releasing the window on the desired side, repeat the for the other window that you want to move to the opposite side of the screen
How to use Split Screen on a Chromebook Using the Maximize Button
You can also use the maximize button to activate the Chromebook split screen feature which requires less moving of the mouse pointer.
- Click and hold the maximize button and move either to the left or right arrow symbol right next to it
- After releasing the window on the desired side, repeat the for the other window that you want to move to the opposite side of the screen
How to use Split Screen on a Chromebook Using a Keyboard Shortcut
You can also use a keyboard shortcut to activate the Chromebook split screen feature, which might be even more comfortable, depending on your situation/habits.
- Press and hold the Alt key and tap the [ ] key
The [ ] key is the one next to the backspace key. to snap the active window to the right half of the screen.
- After releasing the window on the desired side, repeat the for the other window that you want to move to the opposite side of the screen
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Using Split Screen on Chromebooks
Can I use split screen on a Chromebook while connected to an external monitor?
Yes, you can extend your Chromebook’s split screen functionality to an external monitor by connecting the monitor and then dragging windows or using the maximize button to place them on either screen.
How can I make one window larger than the other in split screen mode on a Chromebook?
After activating split screen, hover your cursor over the divider between the two windows and drag it to adjust the size of each window according to your preference.
Is it possible to use split screen on a Chromebook in tablet mode?
Typically, split screen is not supported in tablet mode on Chromebooks, but some models may offer this functionality with a recent ChromeOS update.
What can I do if the split screen feature isn’t working on my Chromebook?
Check if your Chromebook is in tablet mode, ensure split screen shortcuts are enabled in your settings, and avoid using the maximize button on the window you want in split screen.
Can all apps be used in split screen mode on a Chromebook?
While most apps support split screen, some might not function as expected due to their design or the way they resize. Test your desired apps to determine compatibility.
How do I exit split screen mode on my Chromebook?
To exit split screen, click the maximize button on one of the windows or drag the dividing line to the screen’s edge to make one window full screen.
Why can’t I precisely adjust the split screen window sizes on my Chromebook?
The split screen adjustment feature is designed for quick resizing and may not offer pixel-perfect control for all users. Some might find the available adjustment range sufficient, while others may seek more precision.
How can I improve my multitasking efficiency using split screen on a Chromebook?
For effective multitasking, open related tasks or applications side by side, such as a document and a research webpage, to minimize the need to switch back and forth between tabs.
Are there any shortcuts to swap windows in split screen mode on a Chromebook?
ChromeOS doesn’t provide a direct shortcut for swapping windows in split screen mode, but you can manually drag windows to switch sides or use Alt+Tab to switch focus and then adjust as needed.
Can I use keyboard shortcuts to adjust window sizes in split screen mode?
ChromeOS provides specific keyboard shortcuts to snap windows to the left or right side of the screen: use Alt + [ to snap to the left and Alt + ] to snap to the right. However, there are no designated keyboard shortcuts for resizing windows in split screen mode.
How do I use split screen for specific applications like Google Docs and Sheets?
Open Google Docs and Sheets in separate windows and then use one of the split screen activation methods to view and work on them simultaneously.
What to do if a window doesn’t snap to the side when trying to use split screen?
Ensure the window isn’t maximized or in full-screen mode. Try dragging the window to the screen edge again or use the maximize button method for snapping.
How does split screen impact the performance of a Chromebook?
Using split screen on a Chromebook might increase resource usage, especially with demanding applications, but most modern Chromebooks are designed to handle multitasking efficiently.
Can I use split screen with Android apps on a Chromebook?
Yes, many Android apps available on Chromebooks support split screen mode, allowing you to use them alongside ChromeOS apps or web pages.
Is there a way to use split screen with more than two windows on a Chromebook?
The default split screen feature on Chromebooks is limited to two windows. For more complex window management, you might need to manually resize windows or use additional software if available.
Extra: How to Zip and Unzip Files on a Chromebook
The ability to compress and decompress files is essential, especially when dealing with large amounts of data or when sending files over the internet. For Chromebook users, this task is made simple with the built-in tools of Chrome OS. In our other guide, we show you how to unzip files on Chromebooks or how to create new ZIP archives using the built-in compression feature of ChromeOS.
Extra: How to Zoom In and Out on a Chromebook
Zooming in and out on a Chromebook is a valuable skill for enhancing your user experience, whether for work, education, or leisure. There are multiple ways you can zoom in and out on a Chromebook. These include keyboard shortcuts, touchpad gestures, and specific tools designed to magnify small screen sections. Our other guide covers these methods comprehensively, ensuring you can adjust your Chromebook’s display to your personal requirements.
