Windows 10 provides several fast ways to switch between open applications. The most useful is Alt + Tab, which lets you move among open windows without returning to the desktop.
Switch apps with Alt + Tab
- Hold the Alt key.
- Press Tab to display open windows.
- Continue pressing Tab while holding Alt until the window you want is highlighted.
- Release Alt to switch to it.
You can also keep Alt held and select a window with the mouse when the switcher is visible.
Use Task View
Press Windows + Tab to open Task View. This provides a larger overview of open windows and also gives access to virtual desktops. Task View is useful when many applications are open and the Alt + Tab strip becomes crowded.
Switch between windows of the same app
If an application has several windows open, its taskbar icon can show previews when you point to or select it. Choose the specific window you need from those previews.
Virtual desktops
Windows 10 can separate groups of applications onto different virtual desktops. Task View lets you create and move among desktops, while keyboard shortcuts can make desktop switching faster for users who keep workspaces separated by task.
If Alt + Tab behaves differently than expected, review the Multitasking settings. Some Windows versions can include browser tabs or other items in the switching experience. Windows 10’s standard free support ended in October 2025, so the exact interface on an older PC may differ from current Windows 11 behavior.
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.