Jump to Key Sections
Having two applications side by side can greatly improve productivity by allowing you to work on multiple tasks simultaneously without constantly switching between windows. Whether you need to compare data in two different spreadsheets, reference information from a website while writing a document, or simply multitask efficiently, learning how to have two applications side by side in Windows 10 is a valuable skill. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to achieve this and provide additional tips to enhance your productivity.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Having Two Applications Side By Side Windows 10
Previously, arranging two applications side by side in Windows required multiple steps and was often time-consuming. Users had to manually resize each window, align them correctly on the screen, and adjust the sizes for a comfortable viewing experience. This not only ate up valuable time but also led to frustration for many users.
Luckily, Windows 10 introduced several features that simplify the process of having two applications side by side. These features include the Snap feature, Task View, keyboard shortcuts, and more. By utilizing these tools effectively, you can easily arrange and manage multiple applications on your screen, boosting your productivity and efficiency.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods, there are a few things you should prepare to ensure a smooth experience when having two applications side by side in Windows 10:
1. A Windows 10 PC: Make sure your computer is running on Windows 10, as some methods may not be available on older versions of the operating system.
2. Updated software: Update your applications and Windows 10 to the latest version to ensure compatibility and access to all features.
3. Sufficient screen space: Having multiple applications side by side requires enough screen space. Consider using a larger monitor or connecting an external display if needed.
Method 1: Using the Snap Feature
The Snap feature in Windows 10 allows you to quickly arrange windows side by side, as well as easily resize and switch between them. Here’s how to use it:
1. Open the first application you want to have side by side.
2. Click and hold the title bar of the application window.
3. Drag the window to the left or right side of the screen until a transparent overlay appears.
4. Release the mouse button to snap the window to that side of the screen.
5. The application window will now take up half of the screen space.
6. Open the second application you want to have side by side. It will automatically occupy the remaining space on the opposite side.
7. To resize the windows, click and drag the vertical divider between the two applications.
Pros:
– Easy and quick method to arrange applications side by side.
– Allows for easy resizing and switching between applications.
– No need for keyboard shortcuts or additional software.
Cons:
– Limited to two applications side by side.
– Cannot adjust window sizes beyond half or two-thirds of the screen.
Method 2: Using Task View
Task View is another useful feature in Windows 10 that enables you to have two applications side by side, as well as manage multiple virtual desktops. Follow these steps to utilize Task View:
1. Press the Task View button on the taskbar or use the keyboard shortcut Win + Tab to open Task View.
2. In Task View, click on the desired application window and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen.
3. Release the window when a transparent overlay appears and the window will snap to that side.
4. Open Task View again and click on another application window to bring it to the other side.
5. You can also create multiple virtual desktops by clicking on the "+ New desktop" button in Task View. This allows you to have different sets of applications side by side on separate desktops.
Pros:
– Allows for managing multiple virtual desktops, perfect for multitasking.
– Easy to move applications between desktops.
– Provides flexibility in arranging applications side by side.
Cons:
– Requires additional steps compared to the Snap feature.
– Can be overwhelming for users unfamiliar with virtual desktops.
Method 3: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, Windows 10 offers several key combinations to quickly arrange windows side by side. Here are the steps:
1. Open the first application you want to have side by side.
2. Press the Win + Left Arrow keys to snap the window to the left side of the screen.
3. Open the second application you want to have side by side.
4. Press the Win + Right Arrow keys to snap the window to the right side of the screen.
5. The two applications will now be arranged side by side.
Pros:
– Efficient method for users who are comfortable with keyboard shortcuts.
– Allows for quick arrangement and switching between applications.
Cons:
– Limited to two applications side by side.
– May take time to memorize and master the keyboard shortcuts.
Method 4: Using Additional Software
There are a variety of third-party software options available that can enhance window management in Windows 10. These tools offer advanced features and customization options for arranging and organizing applications on your screen. Some popular software solutions include:
– DisplayFusion: This tool provides advanced multi-monitor support, window splitting, and additional shortcuts for managing windows efficiently.
– AquaSnap: AquaSnap offers features like window snapping, window tiling, and desktop resizing, allowing for precise window management.
– Divvy: Divvy provides a grid-based system that enables you to split your screen into customizable regions, making it easy to arrange multiple applications quickly.
Using additional software can offer more control and customization options for managing windows side by side. However, keep in mind that these tools usually come at a cost or offer limited functionality in their free versions.
Pros:
– Enhanced features and customization options for window management.
– Flexibility in resizing and arranging windows.
Cons:
– Additional cost for advanced features in most cases.
– Requires installation of third-party software, which may not be preferable for some users.
Why Can’t I Have Two Applications Side By Side?
There are several reasons why you might encounter difficulties when attempting to have two applications side by side in Windows 10. Here are a few common issues and their corresponding fixes:
1. Insufficient screen resolution: If your screen resolution is set too low, it might not have enough space to display two applications side by side. Adjust your screen resolution to a higher value in Windows settings.
2. Application compatibility issues: Some older or less optimized applications might not support snapping or resizing properly. Ensure that your applications are updated to the latest version or consider using alternative software with better compatibility.
3. Unresponsive windows: Occasionally, windows may become unresponsive or freeze when arranging them side by side. Restart your applications or restart your computer to resolve this issue.
Additional Tips
Here are a few tips to enhance your experience when having two applications side by side in Windows 10:
1. Adjust window sizes: Experiment with different window sizes to find a configuration that works best for your workflow. You can manually resize windows by clicking and dragging the window edges.
2. Use window snapping shortcuts: Pressing the Win key and arrow keys allows you to quickly snap windows in different configurations without using the mouse.
3. Explore taskbar options: Right-click on the taskbar to access the taskbar settings and enable options like "Show windows side by side" to simplify the process of having two applications side by side.
5 FAQs about Having Two Applications Side By Side Windows 10
Q1: Can I have more than two applications side by side in Windows 10?
A: Windows 10 allows you to have two applications side by side using built-in features like Snap and Task View. However, if you need to have more than two applications side by side, you can consider using additional software solutions like DisplayFusion or Divvy.
Q2: Can I resize the windows beyond half or two-thirds of the screen?
A: Window resizing is limited to half or two-thirds of the screen using the built-in Snap feature or keyboard shortcuts. If you need more flexibility in resizing, you can explore third-party software options that offer more customization.
Q3: Why can’t I snap certain applications to the sides of the screen?
A: Some applications have specific window settings that prevent them from being snapped or resized. Check the application’s settings or consider using alternative applications with better compatibility for window management.
Q4: Can I snap windows using touch gestures on a touchscreen device?
A: Yes, on touchscreen devices, you can use touch gestures like swiping from the left or right edge of the screen to snap windows side by side. This feature is available on Windows 10 tablets and touchscreen laptops.
Q5: Can I have multiple virtual desktops with two applications side by side on each?
A: Yes, Windows 10’s Task View feature allows you to create multiple virtual desktops, each with different sets of applications side by side. This is particularly useful for users who need to manage and switch between various workspaces.
In Conclusion
Having two applications side by side in Windows 10 can significantly improve your productivity and efficiency. With features like Snap, Task View, keyboard shortcuts, and additional software tools, arranging and managing multiple applications on your screen becomes simpler and quicker. Take advantage of these methods and tips to optimize your workflow and make multitasking a breeze. Remember to adjust window sizes, explore taskbar options, and consider using third-party software to enhance your window management experience.