Having trouble with games minimizing on your dual monitors setup in Windows 11? It’s frustrating when you’re in the middle of an intense gaming session and the game decides to minimize because you clicked on the other monitor. Fortunately, this can be fixed. Follow these steps to keep your game on one screen while using the other for multitasking.
How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to configure your dual monitor setup so that games won’t minimize when you click on the secondary screen. This involves tweaking some display settings and adjusting game options.
Step 1: Open Display Settings
Right-click on your desktop and select "Display settings."
This will open the Display settings panel where you can see both of your monitors and configure them.
Step 2: Identify Primary Monitor
Under "Rearrange your displays," click "Identify" to see which monitor is currently primary.
The primary monitor is where the game usually runs. Ensuring you know which one is primary is essential for the next steps.
Step 3: Adjust Display Mode
Scroll down to "Multiple displays" and select "Extend these displays."
This setting allows each monitor to function independently, which is crucial for preventing game interruptions on one screen when interacting with the other.
Step 4: Update Graphics Drivers
Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date by visiting the manufacturer’s website or using a driver update tool.
Updated drivers can often fix compatibility issues and improve performance, reducing the risk of games minimizing unexpectedly.
Step 5: Game Settings
Open your game and go to its graphics or display settings. Set the game to "Windowed Fullscreen" or "Borderless Window."
This mode helps the game stay active even when you click on another monitor, unlike the exclusive fullscreen mode which can cause minimizing.
Step 6: Third-Party Software
Consider using third-party software like DisplayFusion or Dual Monitor Tools to manage your dual monitor setup more efficiently.
These tools offer advanced features for handling multiple displays, including options to lock the mouse cursor to one screen while gaming.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your game should stay on one monitor without minimizing when you switch to the other screen. Now, let’s dive into a few extra tips to enhance your dual monitor gaming experience.
Tips on How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11
- Use a Borderless Window Mode: This mode often helps in maintaining game focus.
- Disable Notifications: Turn off or manage notifications to prevent distractions that might cause minimizing.
- Match Refresh Rates: Ensure both monitors are set to the same refresh rate for smoother performance.
- Check Game Updates: Developers often release patches that fix display issues.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn shortcuts for switching focus between monitors without using the mouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my games keep minimizing when I click on the other monitor?
This usually happens because the game is running in fullscreen mode, which loses focus when you interact with another screen.
How can updating drivers help with this issue?
Updated drivers can fix bugs and improve compatibility with dual monitor setups, reducing the risk of games minimizing.
What is the best display mode for dual monitors while gaming?
The "Windowed Fullscreen" or "Borderless Window" modes are recommended as they maintain game focus.
Can third-party software completely solve this problem?
Yes, software like DisplayFusion offers features specifically designed for managing multiple monitors effectively.
Do I need to change settings every time I play a game?
No, once you’ve configured the settings, they should remain in place for future sessions.
How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11 Summary
- Right-click desktop > Display settings.
- Identify primary monitor.
- Set to "Extend these displays."
- Update graphics drivers.
- Set game to "Windowed Fullscreen" or "Borderless Window."
- Consider third-party software.
Conclusion
Gaming on dual monitors should be a seamless experience, and now you have the tools to make that happen. By adjusting your display settings, updating drivers, and choosing the right game modes, you can prevent games from minimizing when you switch to the other monitor. This setup allows you to multitask efficiently—watch a tutorial, stream your gameplay, or browse without interruptions.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring more tips on optimizing your gaming setup. Dive deeper into third-party tools or check out forums for additional advice. Happy gaming, and may your dual monitor adventures be smooth and uninterrupted!