Do you ever feel like your computer screen is too cluttered with open windows, apps, and documents? If yes, then Windows 11 has a powerful feature just for you—Multiple Desktops. Think of it as having several separate workspaces on the same computer. One desktop can be for work, another for entertainment, and yet another for personal projects.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use multiple desktops in Windows 11 step by step, so you can stay organized, boost productivity, and make your digital life a whole lot easier.
What Are Multiple Desktops in Windows 11?
Multiple Desktops (also called Virtual Desktops) allow you to create and switch between different workspaces. Each desktop can have its own apps and windows open, so you don’t have to mix everything on one screen.
For example:
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Desktop 1: Work apps like Word, Excel, Outlook.
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Desktop 2: Entertainment apps like Spotify, Netflix, YouTube.
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Desktop 3: Personal tasks like shopping, browsing, or studying.
Benefits of Using Multiple Desktops
Here’s why you should start using them:
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Stay organized: No more cluttered taskbar with dozens of apps.
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Increase productivity: Keep work separate from personal use.
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Better multitasking: Quickly switch between tasks without losing focus.
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Custom workspaces: Create unique desktops for projects, hobbies, or gaming.
How to Create a New Desktop in Windows 11
Creating a desktop is super simple.
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Press Windows + Tab to open Task View.
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At the top of the screen, click New desktop (+).
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A new desktop will appear—you can now open apps and windows in it.
How to Switch Between Desktops
Once you’ve created multiple desktops, switching is easy.
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Use the shortcut Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow to move between desktops.
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Or, press Windows + Tab, then click the desktop you want.
How to Rename a Desktop
Renaming helps keep things organized.
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Press Windows + Tab.
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Right-click the desktop thumbnail.
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Select Rename and type in a name (e.g., Work, Gaming, Study).
How to Move Windows Between Desktops
Want to send an app from one desktop to another?
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Press Windows + Tab.
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Right-click the app or window.
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Choose Move to > Desktop [number].
This way, you can shuffle apps between workspaces as needed.
How to Customize Desktops with Different Wallpapers
Windows 11 lets you set unique wallpapers for each desktop.
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Press Windows + Tab.
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Right-click the desktop thumbnail.
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Select Choose background.
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Pick a different wallpaper for that desktop.
Now each workspace looks distinct!
How to Close a Desktop
If you don’t need a desktop anymore:
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Press Windows + Tab.
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Hover over the desktop thumbnail.
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Click the X in the corner to close it.
Don’t worry—closing a desktop won’t close your apps; they’ll move back to another desktop.
How to Use Multiple Desktops with Touchpad Gestures
If you have a laptop with a touchpad, gestures make things even faster:
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Swipe four fingers left or right to switch desktops.
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Swipe four fingers up to open Task View.
Keyboard Shortcuts for Multiple Desktops
Here are the most useful shortcuts:
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Windows + Tab → Open Task View.
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Ctrl + Windows + D → Create a new desktop.
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Ctrl + Windows + F4 → Close current desktop.
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Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow → Switch between desktops.
How Many Desktops Can You Create?
Technically, Windows 11 doesn’t set a hard limit—you can create dozens. But for most people, 5–10 desktops are more than enough before things get messy.
Best Use Cases for Multiple Desktops
Here’s how people usually set them up:
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Work Desktop: Emails, spreadsheets, Teams/Zoom.
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Entertainment Desktop: Movies, music, games.
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Learning Desktop: Online courses, notes, research.
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Creative Desktop: Photoshop, coding tools, design apps.
Troubleshooting: Can’t Find Task View Button?
If the Task View button isn’t visible on your taskbar:
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Right-click the taskbar.
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Select Taskbar settings.
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Toggle on Task view.
Now you’ll see the Task View icon next to Search.
Conclusion
Multiple Desktops in Windows 11 are like having several monitors on a single screen. They help you stay organized, improve focus, and make multitasking easier. Whether you’re working, studying, or relaxing, creating separate desktops can bring order to the chaos of too many apps and windows.
So go ahead, set up your work, play, and personal desktops—and enjoy the freedom of a clutter-free digital workspace.
FAQs
Q1: Do multiple desktops use more RAM?
Not really. Windows only runs the apps you open, so extra desktops themselves don’t consume much memory.
Q2: Will closing a desktop close my apps?
No. Apps will move to another active desktop.
Q3: Can I set different taskbars for each desktop?
Not yet—Windows 11 shares the same taskbar across desktops, but wallpapers can differ.
Q4: How do I quickly see all my desktops?
Press Windows + Tab to view all desktops at once.
Q5: Can I use multiple desktops on multiple monitors?
Yes! You can use desktops across monitors for even more workspace flexibility.