Switching between open windows is a fundamental skill for efficient multitasking on both Windows 11 and Windows 10. Whether you're juggling multiple applications or quickly moving between tasks, Windows offers several built-in features and shortcuts to streamline the process. From simple keyboard shortcuts to more visual tools like Task View, each method has its own use case depending on your preferences and needs.
In this guide, we'll walk through the different ways to switch between open windows in Windows. We'll cover various shortcuts, the use of Task View, and how to manage open windows using the taskbar. Each method is detailed with step-by-step instructions, so you can decide which one works best for you.
Efficiently switching between windows helps improve productivity, reduces the time spent navigating, and allows you to keep multiple apps or documents active without getting lost in open windows. Whether you're a power user or simply trying to get the most out of your Windows machine, these tips will help you manage your workflow better.
⚠️ Please note: The process described below is the same in Windows 11 as it is in Windows 10. However, bear in mind that we'll be using screenshots from Windows 11, so your UI may look a little different.
How to Switch Between Open Windows with Task View
Task View is a visual feature to see and switch between all open windows. It allows you to quickly glance at all active windows, desktops, and any virtual desktops you have open.
- Open Task View
Press “Windows + Tab” on your keyboard. This will open the Task View interface where you can see all your currently open windows and virtual desktops.
- Select a Window
Click on the window you want to switch to, or navigate using the arrow keys and press Enter to select the highlighted window.
How to Switch Between Open Windows using Alt+Tab
The Alt+Tab shortcut is a fast and efficient way to cycle between all open windows without using the mouse.
- Press Alt+Tab
Hold down the Alt key and tap the Tab key once. This will bring up a visual overlay showing thumbnails of all open windows.
- Navigate Between Windows
While still holding down Alt, keep pressing Tab to move between the open windows. Release the keys when you reach the window you want to open.
How to Switch Between Open Windows using Ctrl+Alt+Tab
Unlike Alt+Tab, the Ctrl+Alt+Tab combination leaves the window switcher open, allowing you to use arrow keys to navigate through open windows more easily.
- Press Ctrl+Alt+Tab
Press “Ctrl+Alt + Tab” together. This will open a static version of the window switcher that remains visible.
- Select a Window
Use the arrow keys to navigate through the open windows and press Enter to select the desired one.
How to Cycle Between Open Windows using the Alt + Esc Shortcut
Another useful shortcut is Alt+Esc, which allows you to cycle through open windows in the order they were opened, without showing a preview.
- Press Alt+Esc
Hold the Alt key and press the Esc key to immediately switch to the next window in line. Continue pressing Esc while holding Alt to cycle through all open windows one by one.
How to Switch Between Open Windows from the Taskbar
If you prefer using the mouse, you can quickly switch between open windows by utilizing the taskbar.
- Hover Over a Taskbar Icon
Move your mouse cursor over the application icon in the taskbar. A preview of all open windows for that application will appear.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About
Can I activate a window by hovering over it with the mouse?
To enable “mouse hover activation” in Windows, navigate to the Ease of Access settings in the Control Panel, select the “Make the mouse easier to use” link, and then check “Activate a window by hovering over it with the mouse“. For more detailed instructions, please see our dedicated guide on activating windows by hovering.
What should I do if I accidentally minimize or can't find a window?
If a window is minimized, you can restore it by clicking its icon on the taskbar. If you can't locate the window on your screen, try using “Alt + Tab” to cycle through all open applications. For more help, including steps to uncover windows that are off-screen, check our comprehensive guide on how to restore hidden or minimized windows.
How can I switch between multiple desktops in Windows?
To switch between virtual desktops in Windows, open Task View by pressing “Windows + Tab” and click on the desktop you wish to switch to. Alternatively, use “Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow” to switch between desktops more quickly. For a more in-depth guide, visit our detailed article on switching between desktops.
Are there any touch gestures for switching windows in Windows 11?
Windows 11 supports several touchpad gestures for managing windows. For example, you can switch between open windows by swiping with three fingers left or right on the touchpad. Swiping up with three fingers opens Task View, and swiping down shows the desktop. Ensure your touchpad settings are configured to support these gestures through the Settings app under Devices > Touchpad.
How do I manage virtual desktops when multiple windows are open?
When working with multiple open windows across virtual desktops, use Task View by pressing “Windows + Tab” to manage and navigate between them. You can create or close virtual desktops, drag windows between them, or jump directly to a specific desktop.
Is there a shortcut to close the currently active window?
To quickly close the active window, press “Alt + F4”. This shortcut will close the window currently in focus, but remember that if you have unsaved work, you may be prompted to save changes before the window closes.
Can I customize how Alt+Tab displays windows?
You can adjust how the Alt+Tab switcher displays the open windows by going to Settings > System > Multitasking. Here, you can choose to display all open windows or limit the switcher to the most recently used windows. Customizations can help streamline window management and reduce clutter.
How can I make always-on-top windows switchable using Alt+Tab in Windows 11?
For windows that you need to keep always on top, third-party utilities like “Always On Top” or settings within specific applications may be necessary, as Windows does not natively support toggling always-on-top status via Alt+Tab. Adjustments in the respective application settings or additional tools are required.
What's the difference between Alt+Tab and Task View in terms of usability?
Alt+Tab offers a quick and efficient way to switch between your most recently used windows, suitable for rapid toggling. On the other hand, Task View provides a more comprehensive overview of all your open windows and virtual desktops, making it ideal for managing larger workspaces or sorting through numerous applications.
Can Task View display applications that are minimized?
Yes, Task View shows all open applications, including those minimized to the taskbar. It presents a thumbnail preview which can be clicked to restore and bring the application to the foreground.
How do I use the mouse to switch between windows efficiently?
Utilize the taskbar to manage open windows by clicking on application icons to bring them to the foreground or right-clicking for additional options such as closing windows. Hovering over icons displays thumbnails of open windows, enabling quick switching with a single click.
Can I open Task View with touch gestures?
For touch-enabled devices, swipe up from the bottom of the screen with three fingers to open Task View. This gesture provides a quick and natural way to access all open windows and virtual desktops without needing physical keys or buttons.
Is there a way to filter apps shown in Alt+Tab based on their type or usage?
Windows itself does not offer filtering options in the Alt+Tab dialog. However, users can organize their windows by minimizing unused applications or grouping similar applications in the same or adjacent virtual desktops for better management.
How can I quickly switch back to the desktop from any open application?
Press “Windows + D” to minimize all open windows and go straight to the desktop. Press it again to restore the windows to their original state.
What are the advantages of using Ctrl+Alt+Tab instead of Alt+Tab?
Using “Ctrl+Alt+Tab” opens the window switcher and keeps it open, allowing you to navigate between windows using the arrow keys without continuously holding down the shortcut keys. This is particularly useful for users who prefer to use keyboard navigation over mouse input and need time to make selections.
Related: How to Switch Between Desktops in Windows 11 or Windows 10
Windows offers several methods to switch between desktops, each tailored to different user preferences. In our other guide, we show you how to switch between desktops in Windows 10 or Windows 11, unsing hotkeys, Task View, or touchpad gestures.
Related: How to Activate a Window by Hovering over It with the Mouse
Activating a window by simply hovering over it with your mouse is a convenient feature in both Windows 11 and Windows 10. This functionality, often referred to as “mouse hover activation“, allows users to shift focus between open windows without clicking. In our other guide, we show you how to enable hover activation on Windows, so you can bring a window into focus simply by hovering your mouse cursor over it.
Related: How to Restore Hidden or Minimized Windows
Windows 11 provides a highly customizable user interface, allowing you to manage and arrange your windows in various ways. However, this flexibility can sometimes lead to confusion when windows become hidden, minimized, or resized. In our other guide, we show you various methods to restore windows that fall into these different categories: – Whether your window is minimized, hidden, or just needs to be resized back to full-screen mode.
