Snap Layouts and Snap Groups

Owned by Ian Fleshman-Cooper
Last updated: Apr 11, 2024
2 min read

Overview

In Windows 11, Snap Layouts and Snap Groups are features designed to enhance multitasking and window organization.

Snap Layouts:

Snapping Windows:

You can easily snap windows to the side of the screen by dragging them to the edge. Alternatively, use the maximize button on a window to reveal Snap Layout options.

Snap-drag.png

Snap Layout Options:

After maximizing a window, Snap Layout options appear. Click on one of the layouts to arrange open windows side by side or in a grid.

snapoption2.png

Customizing Snap Layouts:

Hover over the maximize button, or use Win + Z, to explore more layout choices. Click on a specific layout to apply it.

Snap Groups:

Organizing Snapped Windows:

Snapped windows form a Snap Group. Automatically create a new Snap Group by snapping windows from different apps.

Switching Between Snap Groups:

Use Alt + Tab to switch between open Snap Groups and other open applications.

Virtual Desktops and Snap Groups:

Combining with Virtual Desktops:

Enhance multitasking by using Snap Groups with Virtual Desktops. Open Task View (Win + Tab) to manage both Snap Groups and Virtual Desktops.

For more information on virtual desktops, visit the Virtual Desktops wiki page.

Customizing Snap Layouts and Groups:

Settings Configuration:

Customize Snap Layouts and Snap Groups in the System section of the Settings app. This gives you the ability to adjust options such as automatic window snapping.

  1. Search Settings in the search bar on the taskbar or within the start menu.

  2. Select the Settings app.

  3. Select Systems within the sidebar.

  4. Scroll down until you find and select Multitasking.

Keyboard Shortcuts:

Windows Key Shortcuts:

  • Snap windows left:

    • Win + Left Arrow

  • Snap windows right:

    • Win + Right Arrow

  • Access Snap Groups:

    • Win + Z