How to Make a Program Open on a Specific Monitor in Windows 10
Opening a program on a specific monitor in Windows 10 is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you can have your favorite apps and programs launch exactly where you want them to. You’ll mostly use built-in Windows features and a bit of drag-and-drop action. Here’s how you can do it.
How to Make a Program Open on a Specific Monitor in Windows 10
This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure that programs open on the monitor of your choice in a multi-monitor setup.
Step 1: Open the Program
First, launch the program you want to open on a specific monitor.
To start, simply double-click on the program icon, or open it through the Start menu or taskbar. If it’s already open, great! If not, get it running.
Step 2: Move the Program to the Desired Monitor
Once the program is open, click on the title bar and drag the window to the monitor where you want it to open in the future.
This is the manual but straightforward part. Just hold down the left mouse button on the title bar and drag the window to the screen you want. Release the button when it’s in the right spot.
Step 3: Close the Program
Next, close the program while it is on the desired monitor.
It’s important to close the program while it’s positioned on the preferred monitor. This helps Windows remember the last used monitor for the program.
Step 4: Reopen the Program
Now, reopen the program to see if it opens on the chosen monitor.
If you’ve followed the steps correctly, the program should launch on the specific monitor where you closed it. If not, double-check the previous steps.
Step 5: Repeat for Other Programs
Repeat the process for any other programs you want to open on specific monitors.
This method can be applied to as many programs as you like. Each program’s position should be remembered by Windows individually.
After you complete these steps, Windows 10 will remember where you last closed the program and will open it on that same monitor the next time you launch it.
Tips for How to Make a Program Open on a Specific Monitor in Windows 10
- Use Task View for Multiple Desktops: Create different desktops for different tasks, and assign programs to specific monitors for better organization.
- Update Graphics Drivers: Make sure your graphics drivers are up to date for better multi-monitor support.
- Check Display Settings: Use display settings to confirm your monitors are correctly aligned and identified.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Windows key + Shift + Arrow keys to quickly move windows between monitors.
- Third-Party Software: Consider using third-party applications like DisplayFusion for more advanced control over multi-monitor setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set a default monitor in Windows 10?
Go to Settings > System > Display, select the desired monitor, and check the "Make this my main display" box.
Can I use a different wallpaper on each monitor?
Yes, go to Settings > Personalization > Background, and right-click on the images to set them for different monitors.
Why don’t my programs remember which monitor they were on?
Ensure you close the program while it’s on the desired monitor. If issues persist, try updating your graphics drivers.
Is there a shortcut to move windows between monitors?
Yes, use Windows key + Shift + Arrow keys to move windows quickly between monitors.
Can I arrange my monitors in a custom layout?
Yes, in Settings > System > Display, you can drag and drop the monitor icons to match your physical setup.
Summary
- Open the program.
- Move the program to the desired monitor.
- Close the program.
- Reopen the program.
- Repeat for other programs.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Now you know how to make a program open on a specific monitor in Windows 10. This little trick can save you a ton of time and hassle, especially if you’re juggling multiple screens in your daily routine.
Whether you’re a gamer wanting your game to always pop up on the big screen, or a professional keeping work apps on a secondary monitor, these simple steps will help you stay organized. Remember, closing the program on the desired monitor is key to making this work. If you want more control, don’t hesitate to explore third-party tools like DisplayFusion.
Check out our other articles for more tips and tricks on mastering Windows 10! Happy multitasking!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.