How to Switch Desktops in Windows 10, 11 & Chromebook

In Windows 10 and Windows 11, Microsoft introduced the ability to create multiple virtual desktops, which allows you to keep your workspaces organized — one for work, one for browsing, one for gaming, and so on. But the real question is: how to switch desktops quickly and efficiently?

Whether you’re using a keyboard, a Precision touchpad, or even a Chromebook, this guide covers all the ways to switch between desktops with ease.

How to Switch Desktops Using Shortcuts (Windows)

Below are some of the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts to switch between desktops on Windows:

• Windows + Ctrl + Left Arrow: Go to the desktop on the left.
• Windows + Ctrl + Right Arrow: Switch to the desktop on the right.
• Windows + Ctrl + D: Create a new virtual desktop instantly.
• Windows + Ctrl + F4: Close the current desktop.

These shortcuts help you quickly switch between desktops without touching the mouse or opening Task View.

How to Switch Desktops in Windows 10

If you’re using Windows 10, learning how to switch desktops can greatly improve your workflow. Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to move between virtual desktops.

Using the Keyboard

• Windows key + Tab: Opens Task View. At the top, you’ll see existing desktops and the option to create a new one. This is the first step in switching desktops.
• Windows key + Ctrl + D: Instantly creates a new virtual desktop.
• Ctrl + Windows + → / ←: Easily switch desktops in either direction using these arrow key shortcuts.
• Alt + Tab: Switches between open apps — not desktops, but still useful when multitasking.
• Ctrl + Alt + Tab: Similar to Alt + Tab, but keeps the switcher open even after releasing Alt. Useful when switching between multiple desktop windows

Using the Mouse (Task View)

If you’re not a fan of keyboard shortcuts, you can easily switch desktops with just your mouse by using Task View.

1. Open Task View
   • Click the Task View icon on the taskbar (it looks like two overlapping rectangles).
   • Or press Windows + Tab if you prefer a quick shortcut.
2. See All Your Desktops
   • At the very top of your screen, you’ll notice boxes labeled Desktop 1, Desktop 2, Desktop 3, and so on.
   • Each one represents a separate workspace with its own apps and windows.
3. Switch Desktops with a Click
   • Simply click on the desktop you want, and Windows will instantly switch you over.
   • For example, click on Desktop 2 to move from your work apps to your entertainment setup without closing anything.

How to Switch Desktops in Windows 11

Windows 11 uses the same shortcuts as Windows 10 but adds a redesigned Task View.

1. Hover over the Task View icon on the taskbar (two overlapping squares).
2. Click the desktop you want.
3. Or use Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow for faster switching.

How to Switch Desktops with Touchpad Gestures

Maybe sometimes your keyboard keys do not work, then how to switch between desktops in Windows 10 in this type of situation.

You can use your finger on the “Precision Touchpad” of your laptop for switching between desktops Windows 10.

You can use some touchpad gestures for switching between Windows apps and for controlling virtual desktops in Windows 10.

For switching, there are two options, Three-finger gestures, and Four-finger gestures.

Three-Finger Gesture: If you have multiple apps open, place three fingers on the touchpad and swipe left or right to switch between open windows.

Four-Finger Gesture: If you have opened multiple desktops, place four fingers on the touchpad and swipe left or right to switch between virtual desktops in Windows 10 one by one.

Laptop which has Precision Touchpad-

• HP 15 Laptop 15-dy2021nr
• ‎HP-17
• Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R14K
• Acer SF314-43-R2YY
• Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R14K

How to Switch Desktops on Mac (macOS Spaces)

Apple calls virtual desktops Spaces, managed via Mission Control.

• Control + Up Arrow → Open Mission Control.
• Control + Left/Right Arrow → Switch desktops.
• Four-finger swipe left/right → Switch with trackpad gesture.

How to Switch Desktops on Chromebook

To switch between desktops on a Chromebook, you can use the following methods:

Keyboard shortcut: To switch between desktops using the keyboard, press “Shift” and “Search” keys along with the right or left arrow key. The “Search” key is usually located where you would find the Caps Lock key on a standard keyboard.

Touchpad gesture: To switch between desktops using touchpad gestures, swipe up with three fingers on the touchpad to open the “Overview” mode. You can then swipe left or right with three fingers to switch between desktops.

How to Switch Between Desktop 1 and Desktop 2

Many users only keep two desktops: one for work, one for personal use.

• On Windows: Use Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow.
• On Mac: Use Control + Left/Right Arrow.
• On Chromebook: Use Shift + Search + Arrow.

Quick Reference Table: Switch Desktop Shortcuts

Learning how to switch desktops on Windows 10 or Chromebook is easy with keyboard shortcuts, touchpad gestures, and Task View. It enhances productivity by allowing you to organize your tasks and workspace more effectively.