How to Change Default Window Size in Windows 11 — A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to stop resizing the same app windows every time you open them? In this how-to-change-default-window-size-in-windows-11-a-step-by-step-guide, we’ll walk through several simple methods to set, save, and restore window sizes so your desktop behaves the way you want. Whether you’re a casual user, a power user, or someone who likes a tidy workspace, you’ll find practical, beginner-friendly instructions and tips here.

Summary — Key Takeaways

• You can’t set a single global “default window size” in Windows 11, but you can use several reliable methods to control how windows open: manual sizing + closing, snap layouts, app settings, taskbar options, registry edits, shortcuts, and third-party tools.
• Best first steps: resize the window, then close it (for many apps Windows remembers size), or create a custom shortcut with size parameters.
• For advanced control: use PowerToys, AutoHotkey, or registry edits (backup first).
• Always test changes, and keep a restore point before editing the registry.

Why this guide matters

• Saves time and frustration when apps open too large or too small.
• Improves productivity by ensuring consistent layouts across sessions.
• Helps users create a clean, personalized desktop environment.

1. Why change window size? Ever open an app and it’s either huge or tiny, and you spend the first minute resizing it? We’ve all been there. Unlike some operating systems that let you define a global default window size, Windows 11 relies on app behavior, user actions, and layout helpers. This guide explains methods—from the simplest to advanced—so you can pick the approach that fits your comfort level.

2. How Windows remembers window size (and when it doesn’t) Understanding how Windows behaves helps pick the right solution.

• Most desktop apps remember their last window position and size when you close them normally.
• Some apps (especially UWP/Store apps) may not remember size or may intentionally open in a default layout.
• Maximized vs. restored state matters: closing while maximized tells Windows to open the app maximized next time.
• Multi-monitor setups and DPI scaling can change behavior.

Related terms and LSI keywords: window position, last window size memory, maximize behavior, app window persistence.

3. Quick method: Resize and close — the simplest trick This is the first method to try because it’s fast and often works.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the app.
2. Resize the window manually by dragging the edges or corners to the size you want.
3. Move the window to the desired screen position (if multi-monitor).
4. Close the app using the X button or File → Exit.
5. Reopen the app to see if the size stuck.

Why it works: Many apps store their last “restored” size and position when closed instead of reading a global setting.

Pro tips:

• If the app reopens maximized, restore it (click the Restore button) first, then resize and close.
• For apps launched from a dock or pinned taskbar, this simple method often does the job.

4. Use Snap Layouts for consistent layouts Windows 11 improved snapping with Snap Layouts — great for creating consistent workspace sizes quickly.

How to use Snap Layouts:

• Hover over the maximize button or press Windows key + Z to view Snap Layout options.
• Choose a layout (two-column, three-column, side-by-side).
• Drop the window into the area you want — Windows sizes it automatically.

Best for:

• Setting up tiling that remains consistent across sessions.
• Fast multi-app workflows where precise pixel-perfect sizing isn’t required.

5. Set a fixed size using app-specific settings Some applications include built-in options to set window size or remember the window geometry.

Where to look:

• Settings or Preferences within the app (e.g., code editors, design software).
• View → Layout or Window menu in apps like Photoshop, Visual Studio, and web browsers (extensions may add options).

Example:

• In many IDEs you can set initial window size or startup layout in Settings → Appearance.

6. Create a shortcut that opens an app at a specific size Shortcuts can pass arguments or be combined with small helper apps to open at a fixed size. This is a reliable method for traditional desktop apps.

Method A — Shortcuts + built-in command arguments (rare)

• Some apps accept width/height parameters. Check app documentation first.

Method B — Use a small helper script via PowerShell or a utility

• Use a script to launch the app, wait for the window, then resize it.

Example using PowerShell (outline):

1. Create a .ps1 script that launches the app (Start-Process).
2. Use user32 APIs via Add-Type to find the window and call SetWindowPos to resize.
3. Create a shortcut to run the PowerShell script with “Run as Administrator” if required.

Note: Full script examples are available in community resources, or you can use AutoHotkey (easier for many users — see next section).

7. Use PowerToys FancyZones for layout control Microsoft PowerToys is an official tool that gives advanced window management.

What is FancyZones?

• A layout editor that allows you to create custom zones on your desktop.
• Drag windows into zones to snap them to a specific size and position.

How to set up FancyZones:

1. Install PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or GitHub.
2. Open PowerToys and go to FancyZones.
3. Click “Edit zones,” create a custom layout, and save.
4. Hold Shift (or configured hotkey) while dragging a window to snap it into a zone.

Why use it:

• Persistent layouts across restarts.
• Precise control for multi-monitor setups.
• Ideal for productivity workflows, streaming, and multi-pane workflows.

8. AutoHotkey: scripted control for power users If you want fine-grained control, AutoHotkey (AHK) scripts can move and resize windows on launch.

Basic AutoHotkey example (conceptual steps):

1. Install AutoHotkey.
2. Create a .ahk script:
   • Use Run to start the program.
   • Use WinWait to wait for the window.
   • Use WinMove to set coordinates and size (x, y, width, height).
3. Compile the script to an executable or run it directly.

Sample WinMove command (conceptual)

• WinMove, WindowTitle, , X, Y, Width, Height

Pros:

• Extremely flexible and automatable.
• Can map hotkeys to resize current window instantly.

Cons:

• Requires learning basic scripting.
• Mistakes in scripts can create unexpected behavior if not tested.

9. Edit the registry (advanced; backup first) There is no single universal registry key to set default window size for all apps. Some applications store settings in registry keys which you can edit — but be cautious.

Steps before proceeding:

• Create a System Restore Point.
• Export registry keys before making changes.

Common places to explore:

• HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software<AppVendor><AppName>
• HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MapSettings (note: not guaranteed)
• User-specific AppData configuration is often safer than registry edits.

When this is useful:

• When an app explicitly stores window geometry in the registry.
• For enterprise deployment where specific settings must be enforced via policies.

Warning:

• Registry edits can break apps or the system. Only do this if you know the key and have a backup.

10. Use third-party apps (overview and safety tips) There are many apps that help manage window sizes and positions:

• DisplayFusion — excellent for multi-monitor setups and window rules.
• AquaSnap — snapping and tiling with advanced rules.
• WindowManager — remembers and restores window sizes and positions.
• WinSize2 — lightweight utility for rules-based sizing.

Safety tips:

• Download from official websites.
• Check community reviews and recent updates.
• Avoid unsigned executables from unknown sources.

Comparison table (quick overview)

11. How to make changes persist across multiple monitors Multi-monitor setups introduce complexity: scaling, orientation, and primary monitor changes affect remembered sizes.

Key tips:

• Use consistent DPI scaling across monitors when possible.
• Make the monitor arrangement mirror how you work (Settings → System → Display).
• When moving windows between monitors, use FancyZones or third-party rules to keep size consistent.
• If you unplug monitors, some apps may reset positions — restore point or script can help.

12. Troubleshooting: Common problems and fixes Problem: Window size isn’t remembered after reboot

• Fixes:
  • Close the app after resizing (don’t force-quit).
  • Check app permissions and whether it stores settings in the cloud.
  • Use a tool like WindowManager or AutoHotkey to enforce sizing.

Problem: App always opens maximized

• Fixes:
  • Restore the window (click Restore), resize, and close.
  • Check the app’s shortcut — right-click → Properties → Run: set to “Normal window.”
  • If shortcut specifies “Maximized,” change to “Normal window.”

Problem: Resize script doesn’t work

• Fixes:
  • Ensure window title or class used in the script matches exactly.
  • Add WinWait or sleep/delay to allow the app to initialize.
  • Run script with proper permissions.

Problem: Desktop layout shifts when disconnecting monitor

• Fixes:
  • Use DisplayFusion to remember monitor profiles.
  • Disconnect safely and reconnect; consider a script to restore layout.

13. Tips to avoid common mistakes

• Always test changes on a single app first.
• Use “Normal window” run mode in shortcuts unless you want maximized behavior.
• Backup registry and create a system restore point before advanced edits.
• Keep scripts organized and commented so you remember why you built them.
• Prefer official or well-reviewed tools to avoid security risks.

14. Accessibility and user experience considerations

• Make sure custom window sizes don’t interfere with magnifiers or screen readers.
• Large fonts and scaling may change perceived usable space; test after changing DPI.
• Consider keyboard accessibility: set hotkeys to position windows quickly.

15. Security and privacy implications

• Scripts that modify windows are generally safe, but executable scripts from third parties can be risky.
• Download PowerToys from Microsoft or GitHub releases, and third-party tools from reputable publishers.
• Avoid running unsigned scripts or tools with elevated privileges unless necessary.

16. Conclusion: Which method should you use? Short answer: Start simple, escalate only if needed.

• If you want a quick fix: resize + close, or use a shortcut with “Normal window.”
• For robust layout control: PowerToys FancyZones (free and supported).
• For automation and fine control: AutoHotkey or PowerShell scripts.
• For enterprise or multiple monitors: DisplayFusion or WindowManager.
• For advanced registry-level changes: only if the app documents the keys and you have backups.

Step-by-step recommended path:

1. Try resizing + closing the app.

2. Use Snap Layouts or FancyZones for consistent layouts.

3. Create a shortcut or AutoHotkey script if you need a specific size every time.

4. Move to third-party tools for complex multi-monitor rules or persistent profiles.

5. Only edit the registry as a last resort — backup first.

6. FAQs (5 unique questions & concise answers)

Q1: Can I set a universal default window size for all apps in Windows 11? A1: No single global setting exists; you use app behaviors, shortcuts, scripts, or third-party tools to approximate a universal default.

Q2: Will Windows 11 remember window size after a restart? A2: Often yes for many desktop apps if you close them after resizing, but behavior varies by app and depends on whether you closed it in a restored or maximized state.

Q3: Is PowerToys FancyZones safe and recommended? A3: Yes — it’s an official Microsoft utility (open source) and is a recommended solution for custom desktop layouts and persistent zones.

Q4: Do I need to learn programming to automate window sizes? A4: Not necessarily. AutoHotkey requires minimal scripting knowledge; PowerToys and third-party tools offer GUI-based setups. Full scripts are optional.

Q5: Will registry edits help set window size? A5: Only if the application stores window geometry in the registry. Registry edits carry risk — always backup before changing.