Keeping a window on top in Windows 11 can be a real game-changer, especially if you’re multitasking and need to keep an eye on one particular app. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can make any window stay on top, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.
How to Keep a Window on Top in Windows 11
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your chosen window remains visible above all others, no matter what. This functionality isn’t built into Windows 11 by default, but can be achieved by using third-party software or built-in features.
Step 1: Download and Install Microsoft PowerToys
First, head to the Microsoft PowerToys GitHub page, download the software, and install it.
Microsoft PowerToys is a set of utilities for power users to tune and streamline their Windows experience for greater productivity. Among its features is “Always on Top,” which lets you pin any window.
Step 2: Open PowerToys and Enable “Always on Top”
Launch PowerToys, go to the “Always on Top” section, and toggle the feature on.
Once you open PowerToys, you’ll find various utilities. Navigate to “Always on Top” and simply switch it on. This feature allows you to pin any window using a keyboard shortcut.
Step 3: Set Your Keyboard Shortcut
Define a keyboard shortcut that you’ll use to pin a window on top.
In the “Always on Top” settings, you can set a custom keyboard shortcut. By default, it might be Windows Key + Ctrl + T, but you can change it to something more intuitive for you.
Step 4: Pin the Desired Window
Go to the window you want to keep on top and press your keyboard shortcut.
Move to the window you want to pin, and press the keyboard shortcut you set in PowerToys. You’ll see a visual confirmation indicating the window is now pinned on top.
Step 5: Unpin the Window
Use the same keyboard shortcut to unpin the window when you no longer need it on top.
If you want to unpin the window, just press the same keyboard shortcut again. The window will return to its normal behavior.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the window you selected will always stay on top, making multitasking easier and more efficient.
Tips for Keeping a Window on Top in Windows 11
- Use PowerToys: It’s a versatile tool that provides multiple utilities, including “Always on Top.”
- Custom Keyboard Shortcuts: Customize shortcuts to something memorable for you.
- Monitor Visual Cues: Pay attention to visual cues confirming the window is pinned.
- Try Other Software: If PowerToys isn’t to your liking, other software like DeskPins and TurboTop offer similar functionality.
- Regular Updates: Keep PowerToys updated to benefit from the latest features and fixes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Microsoft PowerToys?
Microsoft PowerToys is a set of utilities for power users to customize and enhance their Windows experience. It includes features like “Always on Top.”
Is PowerToys free to use?
Yes, PowerToys is completely free and open-source. You can download it from the official GitHub page.
Can I pin multiple windows?
Yes, you can pin multiple windows using the same keyboard shortcut, as long as each window you want to keep on top is selected individually.
What if the window doesn’t stay on top?
Ensure that “Always on Top” is enabled in PowerToys and that you’re using the correct keyboard shortcut.
Are there alternatives to PowerToys?
Yes, alternatives like DeskPins and TurboTop offer similar window-pinning features.
Summary
- Download and Install Microsoft PowerToys.
- Open PowerToys and Enable “Always on Top.”
- Set Your Keyboard Shortcut.
- Pin the Desired Window.
- Unpin the Window.
Conclusion
Keeping a window on top in Windows 11 is an incredibly handy feature, especially when juggling multiple tasks. By using Microsoft PowerToys, you can easily set any window to stay on top, ensuring that important information is always visible. While PowerToys might seem like an extra step, it’s worth the effort for the productivity boost it offers.
For those who love to multitask, this tool can be a real lifesaver. Imagine watching a video tutorial while working on a project, or keeping a chat window open while browsing the web. All of this becomes seamless with the “Always on Top” feature. Remember to explore PowerToys further, as it offers a lot more than just window pinning.
With this guide, you’re now equipped to make your Windows 11 experience more efficient and tailored to your needs. So why wait? Give it a try and see how much easier multitasking can be. If you’re interested in learning more, check out other articles and guides on optimizing your Windows setup. Happy multitasking!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.