If you’re tired of your games minimizing every time you click on your second monitor in Windows 10, you’re not alone. Here’s a quick fix: adjust your in-game settings, tweak your Windows settings, or use third-party software to keep your games from minimizing. Follow these steps to enjoy seamless dual-monitor gaming.
Step-by-step Tutorial to Stop Games Minimizing on Dual Monitors in Windows 10
This section will guide you through steps to ensure your games don’t minimize when you switch between monitors.
Step 1: Adjust In-Game Settings
Many games have settings that allow you to play in "Windowed" or "Borderless Windowed" mode.
Switching your game to a "Borderless Windowed" mode can help prevent it from minimizing when you click on your second monitor. This mode simulates fullscreen while giving you the flexibility to switch to other screens without minimizing the game.
Step 2: Disable Windows Updates During Gaming
Turning off Windows automatic updates can prevent interruptions.
To do this, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and pause updates. This will ensure that Windows updates don’t force your game to minimize mid-session.
Step 3: Use Dual Monitor Tools
Software like DisplayFusion or Actual Multiple Monitors can help manage multiple monitors.
These tools allow you to set precise rules for how windows and games behave across multiple screens. You can configure them to prevent games from minimizing when interacting with the second monitor.
Step 4: Tweak Task View Settings
Disable Task View to keep your game from minimizing.
Right-click your taskbar and uncheck the "Show Task View button.” This step helps in minimizing disruptions caused by accidental clicks on the Task View button.
Step 5: Set Priority for Your Game
Adjusting your game’s priority in Task Manager can also help.
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, go to the "Details" tab, right-click your game, and set its priority to "High". This keeps your game running smoothly even when you interact with other applications on the second monitor.
After completing these steps, you should notice that your games no longer minimize when you click on your second monitor. Enjoy a smoother, more immersive gaming experience!
Tips to Stop Games Minimizing on Dual Monitors in Windows 10
- Update Graphics Drivers: Make sure your graphics drivers are up to date. This can resolve many issues related to dual-monitor setups.
- Game-Specific Settings: Some games have specific settings to manage dual monitors. Check the game’s options menu.
- Use Hotkeys: Familiarize yourself with hotkeys for switching between monitors. This can minimize interruptions.
- Close Unnecessary Programs: Running fewer programs can help reduce the likelihood of your game minimizing.
- Test Different Modes: Sometimes, simply testing different display modes can resolve the issue.
FAQ
Why does my game minimize when I click on the second monitor?
This usually happens because the game is running in fullscreen mode, which doesn’t handle multi-monitor setups well. Switching to "Borderless Windowed" mode can help.
Can I play games in fullscreen without minimizing them on a second monitor?
Yes, but you might need third-party software or specific settings within the game to avoid minimizing.
Is there a way to make one monitor primary while gaming?
Yes, you can set a primary monitor in Windows Display settings. This keeps your game focused on the main monitor.
Do all games support "Borderless Windowed" mode?
Not all games support this mode, but many modern ones do. Check your game’s settings or look online for solutions.
Will turning off Windows updates affect my system?
Pausing updates temporarily won’t have a major impact, but remember to turn them back on to keep your system secure.
Summary
- Adjust in-game settings.
- Disable Windows updates during gaming.
- Use dual monitor tools.
- Tweak task view settings.
- Set priority for your game.
Conclusion
There you have it! A few simple tweaks can transform your gaming experience on a dual-monitor setup in Windows 10. By adjusting in-game settings, disabling disruptive updates, and using specialized tools, you’ll keep your games from minimizing every time you click on your second monitor. Don’t let minor interruptions ruin your epic gaming sessions. Take control of your dual monitors today and dive back into your games with confidence. If you found this guide useful, share it with your fellow gamers! For more tips and tricks, stay tuned to our blog. Happy gaming!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.