Tablet mode was a big deal in Windows 10. It allowed touch-enabled devices to switch to a simplified interface that felt more like a tablet than a traditional PC. But with Windows 11, things are a little different. Microsoft redesigned the operating system to work smoothly across both desktops and tablets, so there’s no dedicated tablet mode toggle anymore.
If you’re stuck with your PC acting like it’s in tablet mode—or you just want to use the traditional desktop interface—this guide will show you how to exit tablet mode in Windows 11 and regain the classic desktop experience.
Does Windows 11 Have Tablet Mode?
Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 does not have a separate tablet mode option. Instead, it automatically adjusts the interface depending on whether you’re using a touchscreen, keyboard, or detachable device.
For example:
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If you remove the keyboard on a 2-in-1 laptop, Windows 11 switches to a touch-friendly layout.
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If you reconnect the keyboard, it automatically switches back to the desktop layout.
So, when people ask how to “exit tablet mode” in Windows 11, they usually mean switching back to the normal desktop layout.
Step 1: Reconnect Your Keyboard or Mouse
The simplest way to exit tablet-like mode is to plug in your keyboard or mouse.
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For detachable devices (like Surface Pro), just reattach the keyboard.
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For touchscreen laptops, connecting a mouse will bring back desktop-style interactions.
Step 2: Check Auto-Rotation Settings
Sometimes, auto-rotation can make your display act like a tablet.
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Press Windows + A to open Quick Settings.
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Look for the Rotation Lock button.
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If it’s enabled, turn it off so the screen can rotate freely.
This helps if your screen is stuck in portrait mode like a tablet.
Step 3: Switch Display Layout
Windows 11 automatically tweaks UI elements for touch input. If you want the desktop back:
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Right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
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Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors.
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Adjust alignment and icons to make your desktop feel more traditional.
Step 4: Change Tablet Settings
You can fine-tune how Windows 11 behaves when using a 2-in-1 device:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to System > Tablet.
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Under When I use this device as a tablet, choose:
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Don’t switch to tablet mode (if you prefer desktop layout always).
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Or adjust to your preference.
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This ensures your PC doesn’t keep flipping into tablet-like mode.
Step 5: Restart Your Device
If your PC feels “stuck” in tablet mode and won’t switch back:
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Save your work.
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Restart your device.
This usually resets the interface back to normal desktop view.
Step 6: Update Windows 11
Sometimes, bugs in early builds of Windows 11 caused devices to get stuck in tablet mode.
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Press Windows + I → Windows Update.
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Click Check for updates.
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Install the latest updates to fix glitches.
Step 7: Use an External Monitor
If you connect your PC to an external display, Windows 11 will default to the desktop layout. This is an easy trick to override tablet-like behavior.
Tips to Avoid Getting Stuck in Tablet Mode
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Keep Rotation Lock off unless you need it.
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Adjust Tablet Settings in Windows 11 to control how your PC behaves.
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Always keep your drivers and BIOS updated for smooth transitions between tablet and desktop modes.
Conclusion
Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 doesn’t have a dedicated tablet mode switch. Instead, it automatically adjusts depending on your hardware. If you find yourself stuck in tablet-like mode, the solutions include reconnecting a keyboard, adjusting tablet settings, disabling rotation lock, or restarting your device.
With these steps, you can easily exit tablet mode and get back to the familiar desktop experience in Windows 11.
FAQs
Q1: Why can’t I find the tablet mode option in Windows 11?
Because Windows 11 no longer has a dedicated tablet mode—it adjusts automatically.
Q2: How do I stop Windows 11 from switching to tablet mode automatically?
Go to Settings > System > Tablet and change the behavior to Don’t switch to tablet mode.
Q3: My screen is stuck in portrait mode. How do I fix it?
Turn off Rotation Lock in Quick Settings.
Q4: Can I force Windows 11 into tablet mode like in Windows 10?
No, Microsoft removed the manual toggle. It only works automatically.
Q5: Will future updates bring back tablet mode?
Unlikely, since Microsoft redesigned Windows 11 to unify desktop and tablet experiences.