Are you frustrated with the inability to resize your windows in Windows 10? You’re not alone. Many users have encountered this issue, and it can be quite annoying, especially when you need to multitask or compare information side by side. In this article, we’ll delve into the possible reasons behind this problem and provide you with practical solutions to get your windows resizing smoothly again.
Understanding Window Resizing in Windows 10
Before we dive into the troubleshooting process, let’s quickly review how window resizing works in Windows 10. By default, you can resize windows by dragging the edges or corners of the window. You can also use the Windows key + arrow keys to snap windows to the sides or corners of the screen.
However, sometimes, you may encounter issues with resizing windows, such as:
- Windows not responding to resizing attempts
- Windows snapping back to their original size
- Windows not resizing proportionally
- Windows not allowing resizing at all
Troubleshooting Steps to Resolve Window Resizing Issues
Let’s go through some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the window resizing issue in Windows 10.
Step 1: Check for Updates
Ensure that your Windows 10 is up to date, as updates often resolve bugs and issues, including those related to window resizing. To check for updates:
- Go to Settings (Press the Windows key + I)
- Click on Update & Security
- Click on Check for updates
Step 2: Disable Tablet Mode
If you’re using a tablet or a 2-in-1 device, you might have accidentally enabled Tablet Mode, which can restrict window resizing. To disable Tablet Mode:
- Go to Settings (Press the Windows key + I)
- Click on System
- Click on Tablet mode
- Toggle the switch to Off
Step 3: Adjust Display Settings
Sometimes, display settings can affect window resizing. Try adjusting your display settings:
- Right-click on an empty area of the desktop
- Click on Display settings
- Ensure that the Display orientation is set to Landscape
- Adjust the Display size to a smaller or larger percentage
Step 4: Check for Conflicting Apps
Some apps might be interfering with window resizing. Try closing all apps and then reopening them one by one to identify the problematic app.
Step 5: Reset Window Size and Position
If a specific window is not resizing, try resetting its size and position:
- Right-click on the window’s title bar
- Click on Size and position
- Click on Reset
Step 6: Disable Snap Assist
Snap Assist is a feature that helps you snap windows to the sides or corners of the screen. However, it might be causing issues with window resizing. To disable Snap Assist:
- Go to Settings (Press the Windows key + I)
- Click on System
- Click on Multitasking
- Toggle the switch under Snap windows to Off
Step 7: Check for Graphics Driver Updates
Outdated graphics drivers can cause issues with window resizing. Ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date:
- Press the Windows key + X
- Click on Device Manager
- Expand the Display adapters section
- Right-click on the graphics driver
- Click on Update driver
Step 8: Perform a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
Corrupted system files can cause issues with window resizing. Run a System File Checker (SFC) scan to identify and replace corrupted files:
- Press the Windows key + X
- Click on Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type the command: sfc /scannow
- Press Enter
Step 9: Reset Windows 10
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you might need to reset Windows 10 to its default settings:
- Go to Settings (Press the Windows key + I)
- Click on Update & Security
- Click on Recovery
- Click on Get started under Reset this PC
Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, you can try some advanced troubleshooting techniques.
Using the Registry Editor
You can use the Registry Editor to modify registry keys related to window resizing. However, be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can cause system instability.
- Press the Windows key + R
- Type the command: regedit
- Press Enter
- Navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
- Look for the following values:
- DragFullWindows
- DragFromMaximize
- SnapSizing
- Modify the values to 1 or 0, depending on your preference
Using the Group Policy Editor
If you’re using a Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise edition, you can use the Group Policy Editor to modify policies related to window resizing.
- Press the Windows key + R
- Type the command: gpedit.msc
- Press Enter
- Navigate to the following policy: User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Windows Explorer
- Look for the following policies:
- Turn off Snap
- Turn off Snap to side
- Enable or disable the policies, depending on your preference
Conclusion
Window resizing issues in Windows 10 can be frustrating, but they’re often easy to resolve. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you should be able to identify and fix the issue. Remember to always be cautious when editing the registry or modifying group policies, as incorrect changes can cause system instability. If you’re still experiencing issues, you may want to consider seeking help from a Windows support specialist or a professional IT technician.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
- Regularly update your Windows 10 to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.
- Use the Windows key + arrow keys to snap windows to the sides or corners of the screen.
- Use the Taskbar to manage your windows and apps.
- Consider using a third-party window management tool to enhance your window resizing experience.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can improve your overall Windows 10 experience and make the most of its features.
Why can’t I resize my windows in Windows 10?
There are several reasons why you may not be able to resize your windows in Windows 10. One common reason is that the window is maximized or in full-screen mode. When a window is maximized, the resize handles are not visible, and you cannot resize the window. Another reason could be that the window is not resizable, which is often the case with dialog boxes or windows that are designed to be a specific size.
To resolve this issue, try restoring the window to its normal size by clicking the “Restore Down” button in the top-right corner of the window. If the window is not resizable, you may need to use a different window or application that allows resizing. Additionally, you can try pressing the Windows key + D to show your desktop and then click on the window to restore it to its normal size.
How do I restore a window to its normal size in Windows 10?
To restore a window to its normal size in Windows 10, click on the “Restore Down” button in the top-right corner of the window. This button is represented by two overlapping squares. When you click on this button, the window will be restored to its normal size, and you will be able to resize it as needed. Alternatively, you can double-click on the title bar of the window to restore it to its normal size.
If you are unable to find the “Restore Down” button, it may be because the window is in full-screen mode. To exit full-screen mode, press the F11 key or click on the “Exit Full Screen” button in the top-right corner of the window. Once you exit full-screen mode, you should be able to restore the window to its normal size and resize it as needed.
Why are my windows stuck in full-screen mode in Windows 10?
There are several reasons why your windows may be stuck in full-screen mode in Windows 10. One common reason is that the F11 key is stuck or malfunctioning. The F11 key is used to toggle full-screen mode on and off, so if it is stuck, you may not be able to exit full-screen mode. Another reason could be that the window is not designed to be resizable or is stuck in full-screen mode due to a software issue.
To resolve this issue, try pressing the F11 key again to see if it exits full-screen mode. If this does not work, try pressing the Windows key + D to show your desktop and then click on the window to restore it to its normal size. You can also try restarting your computer or closing and reopening the window to see if this resolves the issue.
How do I enable window resizing in Windows 10?
Window resizing is enabled by default in Windows 10, but it can be disabled by certain applications or software. To enable window resizing, you need to ensure that the window is not maximized or in full-screen mode. You can do this by clicking on the “Restore Down” button in the top-right corner of the window or by pressing the Windows key + D to show your desktop and then clicking on the window to restore it to its normal size.
Additionally, you can check the settings of the application or software to see if window resizing is enabled. Some applications may have a setting to disable window resizing, so you may need to check the application’s settings to enable it. You can also try restarting your computer or closing and reopening the window to see if this resolves the issue.
What are the common keyboard shortcuts for resizing windows in Windows 10?
There are several keyboard shortcuts that you can use to resize windows in Windows 10. One common shortcut is the Windows key + Left/Right Arrow, which moves the window to the left or right side of the screen and resizes it to half the screen size. Another shortcut is the Windows key + Up Arrow, which maximizes the window, and the Windows key + Down Arrow, which restores the window to its normal size.
Additionally, you can use the Ctrl + Plus sign (+) to increase the size of the window and Ctrl + Minus sign (-) to decrease the size of the window. You can also use the Ctrl + 0 (zero) to reset the window to its default size. These keyboard shortcuts can be useful for quickly resizing windows without using the mouse.
How do I resize multiple windows at the same time in Windows 10?
To resize multiple windows at the same time in Windows 10, you can use the Windows key + Left/Right Arrow shortcut to move the windows to the left or right side of the screen and resize them to half the screen size. You can also use the Windows key + Up Arrow to maximize all the windows and the Windows key + Down Arrow to restore all the windows to their normal size.
Alternatively, you can use the Taskbar to resize multiple windows at the same time. To do this, click on the Taskbar and select the windows you want to resize. Then, right-click on the Taskbar and select “Show windows side by side” or “Show windows stacked” to resize the windows. You can also use the “Snap Assist” feature to resize multiple windows at the same time.
What is the Snap Assist feature in Windows 10, and how does it help with window resizing?
The Snap Assist feature in Windows 10 is a feature that allows you to resize and arrange multiple windows on your screen. When you snap a window to the left or right side of the screen, Snap Assist suggests other windows that you can snap to the other side of the screen. This feature helps you to quickly resize and arrange multiple windows on your screen without having to manually resize each window.
To use Snap Assist, click on the window you want to snap and drag it to the left or right side of the screen. Then, Snap Assist will suggest other windows that you can snap to the other side of the screen. You can also use the Windows key + Left/Right Arrow shortcut to snap the window to the left or right side of the screen and use Snap Assist to suggest other windows to snap to the other side of the screen.