Introduction
Have you ever found yourself working on multiple tasks simultaneously, wishing you could view two windows side by side in Windows 10? Perhaps you’re writing an article and need to reference a website, or maybe you’re comparing two documents or spreadsheets. Whatever the task may be, the inability to split-screen can be frustrating and time-consuming. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to split-screen in Windows 10 using built-in features, third-party applications, and keyboard shortcuts.
How to Split-Screen in Windows 10 using Built-in Features
Windows 10 has built-in features that allow you to split-screen without the need for any additional software. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Windows you want to Split-Screen
Open the two windows you want to view side by side. For example, you may have a Word document open on one window and a web page open on the other.
Step 2: Resize the Windows
Click and hold the title bar of one of the windows, and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen until it snaps into place. Release the mouse button, and the window will be resized to take up half of the screen. Do the same for the other window on the opposite side of the screen.
Step 3: Adjust the Split-Screen
To adjust the size of each window, hover your cursor over the vertical line dividing the two windows, and drag it left or right to resize the windows as needed.
For touchscreen users, swipe in from the left edge of the screen and hold until the current app shrinks. Then, drag it to the left or right half of the screen, and choose a second app to fill the other half.
Top 5 Third-Party Applications to Split-Screen in Windows 10 for Better Multitasking
If you want more advanced features, such as customizing split-screen shortcuts or resizing the windows more precisely, there are several third-party applications available. Here are our top five picks:
1. AquaSnap
AquaSnap is a popular split-screen application that allows users to customize keyboard shortcuts for various window snapping options, such as quarter screen or edge snapping. It also offers the ability to resize windows more precisely, with features such as snap areas and custom grid support.
Pros: Customizable keyboard shortcuts, precise window resizing
Cons: Free version is limited, requires installation
Link: https://www.nurgo-software.com/products/aquasnap
2. Magnet
Magnet is a lightweight and easy-to-use split-screen application that allows you to snap windows to either side of the screen or to one of the corners. It also offers a convenient menu bar icon for quick access to its features.
Pros: Simple interface, lightweight
Cons: Limited customization options
Link: https://magnet.crowdcafe.com/
3. Windows Split Screen
Windows Split Screen is a free and open-source application that offers various split-screen modes for up to four windows, including customizable shortcuts. It also allows users to define custom snap areas using the mouse.
Pros: Open-source, supports up to four windows
Cons: Limited customization options, requires installation
Link: https://github.com/nono240/Windows-Split-Screen
4. FancyZones
FancyZones is a split-screen tool from Microsoft’s PowerToys suite that provides various window layouts, including a customizable grid and snap-to-edge zones. It also supports keyboard shortcuts and the ability to save layouts for future use.
Pros: Free, customizable grid and zones
Cons: Requires installation, limited customization options
Link: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/powertoys/fancyzones
5. Divvy
Divvy is a powerful split-screen tool that provides users with various layouts, including customizable grids and snap areas. It also offers keyboard shortcuts, the ability to save layouts, and integration with other applications.
Pros: Customizable grids and snap areas, integration with other apps
Cons: Expensive price point, requires installation
Link: https://mizage.com/divvy/
How to Adjust Split-Screen View Size and Proportion in Windows 10 for Optimal Productivity
Now that you’ve learned how to split-screen in Windows 10, it’s important to adjust the view size and proportion for optimal productivity. Here’s how:
Resizing the Split-Screen View
To resize the split-screen view in Windows 10, simply click and drag the dividing line between the two windows to the left or right. You can also click on the title bar of either window and drag it to the left or right until it snaps into place. Adjust the size of the windows until they are the desired size for your tasks.
Choosing the Right Size and Proportion
Choosing the right size and proportion for your split-screen view depends on the tasks you’re performing. For example, if you’re writing a document and need to reference a web page, you may want to have the document take up two-thirds of the screen and the web page take up one-third. However, if you’re comparing two documents side by side, you may want them to take up an equal amount of space on the screen.
How to Customize Split-Screen Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 10 for Ease of Use
If you use split-screen frequently, customizing keyboard shortcuts can save you time and improve your workflow. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open Settings
Click on the Windows icon in the lower left corner of the screen and select Settings from the menu.
Step 2: Go to Keyboard Settings
Click on Devices, followed by Keyboard, then scroll down to the “Snap windows” option and click on “View shortcut”.
Step 3: Customize Keyboard Shortcuts
Choose a keyboard shortcut you want to customize and click on it. Then, press the new key combination you want to use. Repeat this process for any other shortcuts you want to customize.
Tip: Choose shortcuts that are easy to remember and don’t conflict with other system or application shortcuts.
How to Troubleshoot Common Issues When Splitting-Screen in Windows 10
While split-screen view is generally reliable, there are some common issues that can occur. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
Issue 1: Windows Won’t Snap into Place
If the windows won’t snap into place, try resizing the windows manually by clicking and dragging the edges.
Issue 2: Split-Screen View Distorted
If the split-screen view is distorted or the windows appear too small, try adjusting the screen resolution in the Display settings.
Issue 3: Third-Party Software Interference
If you’re using third-party software for split-screen view and experiencing issues, try uninstalling the software or checking for updates.
A Comparison of Split-Screen Features in Windows 10 versus Other Operating Systems
While Windows 10 offers built-in split-screen features and the ability to install third-party software, how does it compare to other operating systems? Here’s a comparison:
Windows 10
Windows 10 offers built-in split-screen features and third-party software options for split-screen view. It also allows for customization of keyboard shortcuts.
macOS
macOS offers similar split-screen features to Windows 10, including the ability to snap two windows side by side. macOS also offers a split-view feature for full-screen apps.
Linux
Linux offers various window managers and desktop environments that allow for split-screen view and customization. However, it requires a more advanced skillset to set up and customize compared to Windows 10 and macOS.
How to Get the Most out of Split-Screen in Windows 10: Tips and Tricks from Power Users
Now that you have learned how to split-screen in Windows 10, here are some tips and tricks from power users to maximize the benefits:
Tip 1: Use Split-Screen View for Specific Tasks
Instead of using split-screen view for all tasks, use it for specific tasks that require multitasking, such as writing and researching. This will help prevent distraction and improve productivity.
Tip 2: Customize Keyboard Shortcuts
Customizing keyboard shortcuts can save time and make split-screen view more efficient. Choose shortcuts that are easy to remember and work well with your personal preferences.
Tip 3: Use Third-party Applications
Third-party applications offer more advanced features than built-in split-screen features, such as custom grid support and snap areas. Choose an application that works best for your needs and workflow.
Conclusion
In this article, we have provided a comprehensive guide on how to split-screen in Windows 10 using built-in features, third-party applications, and keyboard shortcuts. We have also covered tips and tricks from power users and compared Windows 10 split-screen features with other operating systems. With these techniques in mind, you can now split-screen view like a pro and maximize your productivity.