To create a new virtual desktop, simply press Win+Ctrl+D. Then, to switch between them, press Win+Ctrl and the Left or Right Arrow... How-To Geek Configure Multiple Desktops in Windows - Microsoft Support Open task view: hover over the task view icon on the taskbar, or press the Windows key + Tab. Right-click on the desktop that you ... Microsoft Support Switch Desktops Easily in Windows 11 - Comodo News Nov 19, 2025 —
: Opens a thumbnail view of all active windows. Press Tab repeatedly to cycle through them, and release Alt to select.
If you are on a laptop or prefer using the mouse: switch desktop windows 11 shortcut
: Win + Ctrl + F4 . Open windows on that desktop will automatically move to the nearest remaining one. Alternative Navigation Methods
If you prefer using a mouse or touchpad rather than the keyboard, Windows 11 offers built-in alternatives: To create a new virtual desktop, simply press Win+Ctrl+D
: Snaps the current window to the top, bottom, left, or right side of the screen. Pro Tips for Customization
Example: If Microsoft Edge is the first icon on your taskbar, pressing will instantly bring it to the front. Quick Snap Layouts Right-click on the desktop that you
: This "locks" the switcher on your screen, allowing you to use your arrow keys or mouse to select a window without holding down any keys. The Task View: Windows + Tab
Windows Key + Ctrl + D (Press this, and a new desktop is instantly created and switches you to it.)
| OS | Switch Desktop Shortcut | | :--- | :--- | | | Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow | | Windows 10 | Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow (same) | | macOS | Control + Left/Right Arrow (Mission Control) | | Linux (GNOME/KDE) | Ctrl + Alt + Left/Right Arrow (default) |
If you have multiple desktops already open and want to toggle between them without looking at a menu, use these: