If you’re tired of your games minimizing themselves when you’re using dual monitors on Windows 10, you’re in the right place! This guide will show you how to keep your games running smoothly while you juggle multiple screens. You’ll adjust some settings to prevent the annoying auto-minimize behavior, making your gaming experience seamless.
How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 10
These steps will help you stop your games from auto-minimizing when using dual monitors in Windows 10. Follow these steps to adjust your settings, ensuring your game screen stays maximized while you use your second monitor.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
Task Manager is a powerful tool that helps you manage running applications and services. You’ll use it to tweak some settings that affect how your computer handles multiple applications.
Step 2: Go to the “Details” Tab
In Task Manager, click on the “Details” tab.
The “Details” tab shows more advanced information about the applications running on your computer. This is where you can fine-tune how your computer prioritizes different programs.
Step 3: Find the Game’s Process
Locate your game’s process in the list.
The process name usually matches the game’s executable file name. This may take a bit of scrolling, but you can also use the search function to find it quickly.
Step 4: Right-Click the Process
Right-click on the game’s process, then select “Set Priority.”
Setting the priority tells Windows how important this application is compared to others. By increasing the priority, you ensure your game gets more of the system’s resources.
Step 5: Select “High” Priority
Choose “High” from the priority list.
By setting the game’s priority to “High,” Windows will manage its resources more effectively, reducing the chances of the game minimizing itself when you interact with other windows on your second monitor.
After completing these steps, your game should now stay maximized even when you’re using your second monitor. Enjoy a smoother gaming experience without those annoying interruptions!
Tips to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 10
- Use Borderless Window Mode: Some games offer a borderless window mode which can prevent minimizing issues.
- Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated drivers can cause issues. Make sure your graphics drivers are up to date.
- Check for Game Updates: Developers often release patches that fix bugs, including minimizing problems.
- Disable Notifications: System notifications can cause games to minimize. Consider turning them off while gaming.
- Adjust Multi-Display Settings: In Windows Display settings, ensure your monitors are configured correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my game minimize when I click on my second monitor?
This happens because Windows 10 prioritizes the active window, causing the game to minimize when you interact with another application.
How can I quickly switch back to my game?
You can use Alt + Tab to quickly switch back to your game without using your mouse.
Can I use software to manage dual monitors better?
Yes, there are third-party applications like DisplayFusion or UltraMon that offer advanced multi-monitor management features.
Will setting the game to high priority affect other applications?
It can, as it allocates more system resources to the game. However, it usually doesn’t negatively impact other applications unless your system is under heavy load.
Is it safe to change the game’s priority?
Yes, it is generally safe. However, always make sure you are changing the priority of the correct process to avoid system instability.
Summary
- Open Task Manager.
- Go to the “Details” tab.
- Find the game’s process.
- Right-click the process.
- Select “High” priority.
Conclusion
Dealing with games minimizing on dual monitors in Windows 10 can be a real pain, but with the right adjustments, you can ensure a smooth gaming experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your game securely on one screen while using the other for browsing, chatting, or any other task.
Updating your drivers and maintaining your system can also help avoid these issues. And if you often use dual monitors, consider exploring third-party tools that offer even more control over your multi-monitor setup.
Now that you know how to stop games minimizing dual monitors Windows 10, why not share this guide with your friends who might be facing the same problem? Happy gaming!
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.