If you’ve found that your open windows are all clumped together in your Windows 11 taskbar, and it’s driving you a bit nuts, you’re in luck. You can easily unstack those windows with a few simple steps. By changing a setting, you can have each window appear separately, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. In just a few minutes, you can transform your taskbar from a cluttered mess into a neatly organized tool, ready to make your life easier.
How to Unstack Windows in Taskbar Windows 11
Unstacking windows on your Windows 11 taskbar can make multitasking a breeze. Follow these simple steps to get your taskbar looking just the way you want it.
Step 1: Right-click the Taskbar
The first step is to right-click anywhere on the empty area of the taskbar.
This brings up a context menu with several options. It’s like opening a door to a secret world of customization! Make sure you don’t click on any app icons, as this will open a different menu.
Step 2: Select ‘Taskbar Settings’
Once the menu appears, click on ‘Taskbar Settings.’
This option will take you to the settings page where you can adjust how your taskbar behaves. It’s the control center for everything taskbar-related, giving you the power to tweak things to your liking.
Step 3: Locate the ‘Taskbar Behaviors’ Section
Scroll down to find the ‘Taskbar Behaviors’ section in the settings window.
This section houses a variety of options that influence how your taskbar appears and functions. Think of it as the wardrobe for your taskbar, where you can dress it up or down.
Step 4: Uncheck ‘Combine Taskbar Buttons’
Within the ‘Taskbar Behaviors’ section, look for an option labeled ‘Combine taskbar buttons’ and uncheck it.
By unchecking this option, you prevent Windows from stacking multiple windows of the same app into a single button. It’s like telling your taskbar to give each window its own space to breathe.
Step 5: Close Settings
Finally, close the settings window to save your changes.
You don’t need to click any save button; your changes are automatically saved. It’s like magic—no extra steps required, just instant results.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your taskbar will display each open window separately rather than stacking them together. This unstacked view makes it easier to switch between your open apps or documents, especially if you often have multiple windows open at once.
Tips for Unstacking Windows in Taskbar Windows 11
- Check the taskbar settings regularly, as updates can sometimes revert your changes.
- If your taskbar is still cluttered, consider using taskbar icons with smaller sizes.
- Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for quick navigation between windows.
- Personalize your taskbar further by pinning your most-used apps.
- Use virtual desktops for even more organization if you work with many windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my taskbar buttons stacked?
By default, Windows 11 stacks taskbar buttons to save space, especially if you have many windows open at once.
How can I tell if my windows are unstacked?
Once unstacked, each window will appear as a separate icon on the taskbar, making it easier to identify and switch between them.
Does unstacking affect the performance of my PC?
No, unstacking your windows does not affect the performance of your computer. It only changes how the taskbar displays open windows.
Can I revert back to stacked windows if I change my mind?
Yes, you can easily revert back by following the same steps and re-checking the ‘Combine taskbar buttons’ option.
Are there any third-party apps to customize my taskbar further?
Yes, there are many third-party apps available that offer advanced customization options for the Windows taskbar.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click the Taskbar.
- Select ‘Taskbar Settings.’
- Locate the ‘Taskbar Behaviors’ section.
- Uncheck ‘Combine Taskbar Buttons.’
- Close Settings.
Conclusion
Unstacking your windows in the Windows 11 taskbar can greatly enhance your user experience, especially if you’re juggling multiple applications. By allowing each window its own space, you can quickly switch between tasks without the hassle of sifting through stacked icons. The process is simple yet transformative, making your desktop feel more like an organized study than a chaotic classroom.
For those who love a bit of customization, Windows 11 offers a plethora of options to tailor your taskbar to your liking. But remember, like a well-cooked meal, the simplest adjustments can often have the most significant impact. So, take a moment to unstack those windows and experience a smoother, more intuitive workflow.
And, if you’re ready to dive deeper, explore other settings and tips to get the most out of your Windows 11 experience. With a bit of tweaking, your computer can be a powerful tool tailored perfectly to your needs. Give unstacking a try and see how it can improve your digital workspace today!
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.