Keeping a window always visible while working can significantly improve productivity. Whether you’re comparing documents, watching a tutorial, monitoring a chat, or tracking live data, the ability to pin a window on top in Windows 10 ensures it stays above all other open applications.
Although Windows 10 does not include a built-in “always on top” feature for every app, there are several easy ways to achieve this using official tools and lightweight utilities.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to pin a window on top in Windows 10, step by step.
✅ Why Pin a Window on Top?
Here are common situations where this feature is useful:
- Watching a YouTube tutorial while coding
- Keeping a calculator visible during spreadsheet work
- Monitoring stock charts or system stats
- Keeping a chat window accessible during gaming
- Comparing two documents side by side
Pinning a window prevents it from minimizing or hiding behind other programs.
🔹 Method 1: Use Microsoft PowerToys (Best & Official Method)
The easiest and safest way to pin windows on top is by using Microsoft PowerToys, a free tool developed by Microsoft.
Step 1: Install Microsoft PowerToys
- Download PowerToys from the official Microsoft website or GitHub.
- Install it like any standard Windows application.
- Launch PowerToys after installation.
Step 2: Enable “Always on Top”
- Open PowerToys.
- Click on Always on Top from the left sidebar.
- Toggle Enable Always on Top to ON.
Step 3: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
To pin a window:
- Click the window you want to keep on top.
- Press:
Windows Key + Ctrl + T
A border will appear around the window, confirming it’s pinned.
To unpin it, press the same shortcut again.
✔ Official Microsoft solution
✔ Safe and lightweight
✔ Works on all standard apps
🔹 Method 2: Use Third-Party Tools (Alternative Option)
If you prefer other tools, lightweight apps like DeskPins can also pin windows.
These programs let you click a “pin” icon and select the window you want to keep on top.
⚠ Always download software from trusted sources to avoid malware.
🔹 Method 3: Use Built-In App Features (Limited Support)
Some applications have built-in “Always on Top” options. Examples include:
- Media players
- Calculator apps
- Certain browser extensions
Check the app’s settings menu to see if this feature is available.
However, Windows 10 itself does not provide a universal built-in option without tools like PowerToys.
🛠 How to Customize Always on Top in PowerToys
PowerToys allows extra customization:
- Change the keyboard shortcut
- Disable sound notifications
- Adjust border color and thickness
- Exclude specific apps from being pinned
This gives you full control over how pinned windows behave.
🔄 How to Remove a Pinned Window
To unpin:
- Select the pinned window
- Press Windows + Ctrl + T again
Or disable the feature completely inside PowerToys.
⚡ Tips for Better Multitasking in Windows 10
While using pinned windows, you can also:
✔ Use Snap Assist to arrange windows
✔ Press Windows + Arrow Keys to snap windows
✔ Use Task View (Windows + Tab) for better window management
✔ Create virtual desktops for organized workflows
Combining these features boosts efficiency dramatically.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Windows 10 have a built-in always-on-top feature?
No, not universally. You need a utility like Microsoft PowerToys.
2. Is PowerToys safe?
Yes. It is developed and maintained by Microsoft.
3. Can I pin multiple windows at once?
Yes. PowerToys allows multiple windows to stay on top simultaneously.
4. Will pinned windows stay on top after restart?
No. You must re-pin them after restarting your computer.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Pinning a window on top in Windows 10 is incredibly useful for multitasking, productivity, and monitoring tasks. While the operating system doesn’t provide this feature by default, Microsoft PowerToys offers a simple and reliable solution.
By using the shortcut Windows + Ctrl + T, you can instantly keep any window visible while working on other applications.
If you frequently switch between tasks, this feature can save time and reduce frustration — making your Windows 10 experience smoother and more efficient.