Are you tired of playing your favorite game and suddenly it minimizes when you move your mouse to your second monitor? You’re not alone! Thankfully, there’s a way to keep your game running smoothly on Windows 11 while using dual monitors. To stop games from minimizing, you need to adjust your game settings and tweak some display settings in Windows. By following these steps, you can enjoy seamless gameplay without any interruptions.
How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11
This section will guide you through the steps needed to keep your game running smoothly without minimizing when using dual monitors in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open Display Settings
First, you need to open the display settings on your Windows 11 computer.
Right-click on your desktop and select “Display settings” from the menu. This is where you can adjust the monitors’ configurations and ensure they’re set up correctly for gaming.
Step 2: Set Main Display
Next, set your main display to the monitor where you want to play the game.
In the display settings, you’ll see a diagram showing your monitors. Click on the monitor you wish to use as the main display, then check “Make this my main display.” This ensures that your game will prioritize this monitor.
Step 3: Adjust Game Settings
Now, open your game’s video or display settings and make necessary adjustments.
Look for options related to fullscreen or windowed mode. Choosing “borderless windowed” or “windowed fullscreen” can often prevent the game from minimizing when you click on the other monitor.
Step 4: Use Third-Party Software
Consider using third-party software to manage your dual monitor setup.
Applications like DisplayFusion or Actual Multiple Monitors offer additional options to control how your games and programs interact across monitors, preventing unwanted minimizing.
Step 5: Update Graphics Drivers
Finally, ensure your graphics drivers are up-to-date.
Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer and download the latest drivers. Out-of-date drivers can sometimes cause display issues, including games minimizing unexpectedly.
After completing these steps, your games should no longer minimize when using dual monitors. You’ll be able to move your mouse between screens without interrupting your gameplay.
Tips to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11
- Keep your game updated to the latest version to ensure compatibility with new features and fixes.
- Regularly check for Windows 11 updates as system improvements can enhance dual monitor performance.
- Customize your taskbar settings to only show on your main display, reducing distractions.
- Experiment with different display modes in your game settings to find what works best for you.
- Avoid running too many background applications as they can cause performance issues and game minimizing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my game minimize when I click on the second monitor?
Games often minimize due to the way fullscreen mode interacts with multiple displays. Adjusting to borderless windowed mode can help.
Can I disable my second monitor while gaming?
Yes, you can temporarily disable the second monitor in display settings, but it’s more efficient to adjust your game and display settings instead.
Is third-party software safe to use for dual monitors?
Most reputable third-party software is safe and can provide additional customization options for managing displays.
Will updating drivers really help?
Yes, updating drivers can resolve compatibility issues and improve performance, including preventing games from minimizing.
Can I game on both monitors simultaneously?
While technically possible, most games are designed for single-screen play. Stretching a game across two monitors can lead to distorted graphics and isn’t recommended.
Summary
- Open Display Settings.
- Set Main Display.
- Adjust Game Settings.
- Use Third-Party Software.
- Update Graphics Drivers.
Conclusion
Getting your games to stop minimizing on dual monitors with Windows 11 can make a world of difference in your gaming experience. By following the steps outlined above, you ensure seamless gameplay without those annoying interruptions. Keeping your setup optimized involves more than just adjusting a few settings; it’s about ensuring all components, from drivers to display settings, are in harmony. Remember, the world of technology is ever-evolving, and staying updated can save you from a lot of headaches. Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who spends hours immersed in virtual worlds, having a smooth experience is key. So go ahead, make the necessary adjustments, and dive into your games with the assurance that nothing will pull you out unexpectedly. For further reading, consider exploring community forums or help pages specific to your games for more tailored advice. Happy gaming!
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.