Ever feel like your desktop is too cluttered with open apps and windows? Windows 11 has a neat trick to fix that — virtual desktops. They let you create separate workspaces so you can keep things organized. Think of them like multiple desks in your office — one for work, one for personal stuff, and maybe one just for fun.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to switch between desktops in Windows 11 easily, along with some smart tips to make the most of this feature.
What Are Virtual Desktops?
Virtual desktops let you create multiple desktops on a single computer. Each one can have its own set of windows, apps, and even wallpapers. This helps you separate tasks — like work projects, gaming, or online learning — without the chaos of a single desktop full of clutter.
Why Use Multiple Desktops?
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Stay organized by separating work and personal apps.
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Reduce distractions — keep social media on one desktop, work on another.
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Improve productivity with focused environments.
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Create custom layouts for meetings, presentations, or gaming sessions.
How to Create a New Desktop
Before switching between desktops, you need at least two.
Steps:
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Press Win + Tab or click the Task View icon (two overlapping rectangles) on the taskbar.
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Click New Desktop in the top bar.
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Open the apps you want on that desktop.
Repeat these steps to create more desktops as needed.
How to Switch Between Desktops Using the Taskbar
This is the easiest and most visual way.
Steps:
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Hover over or click the Task View icon on the taskbar.
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Select the desktop you want to switch to.
That’s it — instant change.
How to Switch Desktops with Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are faster once you get used to them.
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Win + Ctrl + Left Arrow → Switch to the desktop on the left.
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Win + Ctrl + Right Arrow → Switch to the desktop on the right.
Perfect for quick multitasking.
How to Use Touchpad Gestures to Switch Desktops
If your laptop supports precision touchpad gestures:
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Place four fingers on the touchpad.
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Swipe left or right to switch between desktops.
Smooth and intuitive for laptop users.
How to Move Windows Between Desktops
Sometimes you open an app in the wrong desktop. Easy fix.
Steps:
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Press Win + Tab to open Task View.
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Right-click the app window.
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Select Move to > Desktop X (choose the destination desktop).
How to Rename Your Desktops
Naming desktops makes it easier to remember what’s on each.
Steps:
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Open Task View (Win + Tab).
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Right-click the desktop you want to rename.
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Select Rename and type the new name.
How to Change Wallpaper for Each Desktop
Want each desktop to have its own look? You can set unique wallpapers.
Steps:
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Go to Settings > Personalization > Background.
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Right-click the desktop thumbnail in Task View.
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Choose a different wallpaper for that desktop.
How to Close a Desktop
When you’re done with a desktop, closing it is simple.
Steps:
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Open Task View (Win + Tab).
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Hover over the desktop.
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Click the X in the corner to close it.
Apps from that desktop will move to the previous one.
How Many Desktops Can You Have?
There’s no strict limit for most users — Windows 11 allows dozens of desktops. But having too many can make switching confusing.
Do Desktops Affect System Performance?
Not really. Virtual desktops share the same system resources. If your PC can handle multiple open apps, it can handle multiple desktops just fine.
Can You Use Different Accounts on Different Desktops?
No. All desktops belong to the same user account. If you want completely separate logins, you’ll need multiple user profiles.
Best Practices for Using Virtual Desktops
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Keep one desktop for work, one for personal use.
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Use keyboard shortcuts for speed.
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Rename desktops for clarity.
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Close unused desktops to stay organized.
Conclusion
Switching between desktops in Windows 11 is a game-changer for productivity and organization. Whether you’re a multitasker juggling projects or someone who likes a clutter-free workspace, virtual desktops help you stay focused and efficient. With a few shortcuts and a bit of setup, you’ll never go back to a single messy desktop again.
FAQs
1. Can I set different apps to launch on specific desktops?
Not automatically, but you can manually arrange them in each desktop.
2. Will closing a desktop close my apps?
No, apps will move to the previous desktop.
3. Are virtual desktops available in Windows 10?
Yes, but Windows 11 adds better features like per-desktop wallpapers.
4. Can I drag and drop files between desktops?
You can’t drag directly, but you can copy and paste between them.
5. Is there a limit to how many desktops I can create?
Technically no, but too many can clutter your workflow.