How to Force Applications to Open on Primary Monitor in Windows 11/10 [TUTORIAL]

When working with multiple monitors, many users encounter the issue of applications opening on the wrong display. This becomes particularly frustrating when you set your primary monitor for a reason—be it for ease of use, accessibility, or simply preference. Fortunately, Windows 10 and Windows 11 provide you with several ways to manage how applications behave when opening on a multi-monitor setup. In this tutorial, we will explore various methods to force applications to open on the primary monitor.

Understanding the Primary Monitor Setup

Before we jump into various solutions, it’s essential to understand the term "primary monitor." This is the screen designated as the main display in a multi-monitor setup. Windows utilizes the primary monitor for the taskbar and default display of applications. However, misconfigurations and application-specific behaviors can often lead to programs opening on secondary monitors instead.

Setting Your Primary Monitor

Before forcing applications to open on your primary monitor, ensure that you have correctly set your primary monitor.

1. Right-click on the Desktop and select Display settings.
2. In the display settings window, you will see a visual representation of your monitors. Your screens will be numbered (1, 2, etc.).
3. Identify your desired primary monitor and click on it.
4. Scroll down, and you will see a checkbox labeled Make this my main display. Check this box.
5. Click Apply to save your changes.

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Sometimes, if you frequently switch between monitors, a quick keyboard shortcut can effectively reposition your application window to your primary monitor without additional configurations.

1. Open the Application you wish to move.
2. If the application opens on the secondary monitor, click on the title bar of the window to focus on it.
3. Press Windows key + Shift + Left Arrow or Windows key + Shift + Right Arrow to move the window between monitors.
4. Repeat this process until the application appears on your primary monitor.

This method is quick and works well if you only need to reposition the windows occasionally.

Method 2: Using Display Settings for Each Application

Many applications store their last-used window position. If they were last opened on the secondary monitor, they will continue to do so. A simple workaround is to open the application, move it to the primary monitor, and then close it there. The next time you open it, Windows should remember this position.

1. Open the Application you’d like to reposition.
2. Drag the window to your primary monitor.
3. Close the application entirely while it is on the primary monitor.
4. Reopen the application to confirm it automatically launches on the primary monitor.

This method leverages the application’s internal behavior regarding window placement and can be effective for many modern applications.

Method 3: Adjusting Application Compatibility Settings

Some older desktop applications may have specific compatibility settings that affect how they open within a multi-monitor setup. Adjusting these settings can sometimes ensure they open on the primary display.

1. Right-click on the application’s shortcut (either on your Desktop or in the Start Menu).
2. Select Properties from the context menu.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Click on Change high DPI settings.
5. Check the box beside Override high DPI scaling behavior. Scaling performed by:
6. Choose Application from the dropdown menu.
7. Click OK and then Apply.

This setting can often help force an application to behave better in a multi-monitor setup.

Method 4: Using Windows PowerToys

Windows PowerToys is a powerful suite of utilities offered by Microsoft to enhance the Windows experience. Within PowerToys, there’s a tool called “FancyZones” which allows for detailed window management.

1. Download and Install Windows PowerToys from the GitHub repository.
2. Open PowerToys, and navigate to FancyZones.
3. Configure your Zones as desired, setting specific areas for application windows to be opened.
4. You can use predefined layouts or create custom ones tailored to your needs.

Using FancyZones not only allows you to catch windows on your primary monitor but also helps in organizing multiple applications efficiently.

Method 5: Registry Modification

For more advanced users, making modifications to the Windows Registry can provide deeper control over window placements across multiple monitors.

Warning: Editing the Registry can have unintended side effects. Always back up your Registry before making any changes.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type regedit, and hit Enter.

2. Navigate to the following path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerStuckRects3

3. Look for the key named Settings. This is a binary value, and changing its content can affect how Windows retains window positions.

4. Carefully edit this binary value or export the key if you want to revert later.

Since the Windows Registry is not always straightforward, we do not recommend this method unless you are comfortable with technical details.

Method 6: Specific Application Settings

Some applications come with their own settings to manage window positions. These can include gaming applications, design software, or various productivity tools. Access the settings or preferences menu of the application and look for options related to display or window management.

1. Open the application and navigate to the Settings, Preferences, or Options menu.
2. Look for options related to display or window management.
3. Set the desired display or choose to remember the last position.
4. Save your settings and exit.

Applications like Adobe Creative Suite, Visual Studio, and some games have dedicated options to specify which monitor to open on.

Method 7: Third-Party Window Management Applications

If the above methods are insufficient or cumbersome, consider using third-party applications designed specifically for window management. Tools like DisplayFusion, UltraMon, or Actual Multiple Monitors provide extensive control over how applications operate in multi-monitor setups.

1. Search and select a reputable window management application.
2. Download and install it according to the instructions provided.
3. Use the tool to designate which applications should always open on your primary monitor.
4. Configure options as per your preferences.

These applications can also assist in advanced configurations like multi-monitor taskbars, hotkeys for managing windows, and more, ensuring a highly optimized dual-monitor experience.

Tips for Managing Applications on Multiple Monitors

• Organize Your Workflow: Designate specific applications for specific monitors. For example, use one monitor for communications (like Slack, Email) and another for work (documents, code).

• Use Virtual Desktops: Windows 10 and 11 allow the creation of multiple virtual desktops. This feature can help keep your work organized across multiple screens.

• Keep Everything Updated: Ensure your graphics drivers and Windows versions are up-to-date. Sometimes, behavioral issues related to multiple monitors can be due to outdated drivers.

• Monitor Resolution Settings: Ensure all monitors are set to the correct resolution. Mismatched resolutions can cause window placement issues.

Conclusion

Managing multiple monitors effectively allows for a more streamlined workflow, but it can also present unique challenges, such as applications opening on unintended displays. By utilizing the built-in features of Windows 10 and Windows 11, alongside various tools and tweaking settings, users can resolve these issues efficiently.

Whether using keyboard shortcuts, adjusting properties, employing advanced utility tools, or employing Registry changes, each method has its own merits based on individual preferences and technical expertise. As you customize your setup, always consider the nature of your applications and your own working preferences to optimize your dual-monitor experience.