How to Turn Off Tablet Mode on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 10, 2025

Windows 11 introduced a sleek, modern interface that works well on tablets and touchscreen devices. But if you’re using a laptop or desktop, Tablet Mode can sometimes feel unnecessary, as it changes your desktop layout and hides some familiar elements.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to turn off Tablet Mode in Windows 11, explain why it happens, and provide additional tips to make your PC experience smoother.

What Is Tablet Mode on Windows 11?

Tablet Mode is a Windows feature that optimizes your device for touch input:

  • Full-screen apps instead of windowed apps.

  • More spacing between icons and taskbar elements.

  • Touch-friendly Start menu and taskbar.

It’s great for tablets, 2-in-1 laptops, or touchscreen devices, but for standard laptops or desktops, it can be annoying and unnecessary.

Why You Might Want to Turn Off Tablet Mode

  • You prefer using a mouse and keyboard.

  • Tablet Mode hides the taskbar and desktop icons.

  • Apps open in full-screen by default, which may slow productivity.

  • You accidentally triggered Tablet Mode on a 2-in-1 laptop.

Method 1: Turn Off Tablet Mode via Settings

This is the most straightforward way to disable Tablet Mode.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

Step 2: Go to System > Tablet

Click System in the left sidebar → Select Tablet.

Step 3: Change Tablet Mode Settings

Under When I use this device as a tablet, select:

  • Don’t switch to tablet mode

This ensures Windows 11 stays in desktop mode permanently.

Method 2: Turn Off Tablet Mode Using Action Center

You can quickly toggle Tablet Mode from the Quick Settings menu.

Step 1: Open Quick Settings

Press Windows + A or click the network, volume, or battery icon in the bottom-right corner.

Step 2: Look for Tablet Mode

If the Tablet Mode icon is present (tablet symbol), click it to turn it off.

Method 3: Disable Automatic Tablet Mode on 2-in-1 Devices

Windows 11 can automatically switch to Tablet Mode when you detach or fold a 2-in-1 device.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press Windows + I → Go to System > Tablet.

Step 2: Configure Automatic Behavior

Under When I sign in or switch devices, choose:

  • Don’t switch to tablet mode automatically

This prevents accidental toggling in the future.

Method 4: Use Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

If Settings isn’t working, you can disable Tablet Mode via Registry.

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows + R, type:

regedit

and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to Tablet Mode Key

Go to:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ImmersiveShell

Step 3: Modify TabletMode Value

  • Look for TabletMode → double-click it.

  • Set the value to 0 → Click OK.

  • Restart your PC.

This disables Tablet Mode permanently.

Method 5: Turn Off Tablet Mode Using Group Policy (Windows 11 Pro)

For Pro users, Group Policy can control Tablet Mode behavior.

Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor

Press Windows + R, type:

gpedit.msc

and hit Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to Tablet Mode Settings

Go to:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Tablet PC > Tablet Mode

Step 3: Disable Automatic Tablet Mode

Double-click Turn off automatic tablet mode → Select Enabled → Apply → OK.

Tips for a Smooth Windows 11 Desktop Experience

  • Pin frequently used apps to the taskbar for easy access.

  • Use Snap Layouts to organize windows efficiently.

  • Customize the Start menu for quick access to programs.

  • Avoid accidentally entering Tablet Mode on 2-in-1 devices by adjusting automatic settings.

Conclusion

Turning off Tablet Mode on Windows 11 is simple, whether through Settings, Quick Settings, Registry, or Group Policy. By disabling it, you regain full control of your desktop layout, taskbar, and multitasking experience.

These steps ensure your Windows 11 device behaves like a traditional laptop or desktop without unnecessary touch-focused adjustments.

FAQs

Q1: Can I turn off Tablet Mode permanently on Windows 11?
Yes, using Settings or Registry Editor, you can prevent Windows from switching to Tablet Mode automatically.

Q2: Why does Windows 11 keep switching to Tablet Mode?
This usually happens on 2-in-1 devices when the keyboard is detached or folded.

Q3: Is Tablet Mode only for touchscreens?
Yes, it’s designed for touch input, optimizing full-screen apps and spacing.

Q4: Can I still use my desktop in Tablet Mode?
Yes, but the taskbar, Start menu, and app windows will behave differently.

Q5: Does turning off Tablet Mode affect Windows updates?
No, it only changes the user interface, not system updates or functionality.

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