Windows Multi-Monitor Taskbar: Tips & Tweaks
Enhanced Taskbar Functionality in Windows 8 and 10
For a considerable period, Windows users have expressed curiosity regarding Microsoft's reluctance to offer a customizable taskbar experience extending across multiple displays.
Fortunately, Windows 8 and subsequent versions, including Windows 10, introduce a novel feature designed to significantly improve this functionality.
Spanning the Taskbar Across Multiple Monitors
The taskbar in Windows 8, and continuing in Windows 10, now possesses the capability to extend seamlessly across multiple monitors.
This allows for a more intuitive workflow, particularly for users who frequently work with numerous applications distributed across different screens.
Customization Options for Taskbar Buttons
The new system offers customization options regarding how taskbar buttons are displayed on each monitor.
Users can configure the taskbar so that buttons appearing on each monitor correspond specifically to the windows currently open on that particular display.
Alternative Display Configuration
Alternatively, it is possible to configure both taskbars to display all open windows, regardless of which monitor they are located on.
This provides a centralized view of all active applications, offering a different approach to task management.
This feature enhances productivity and streamlines the user experience when utilizing multiple monitors with Windows 8 or 10.
Adjusting the Multi-Monitor Taskbar Configuration
Access to the new configuration options is achieved through Taskbar Properties. This can be opened by right-clicking directly on the Taskbar and selecting “Properties” from the context menu.
Within the Properties dialog, locate the “Multiple displays” section positioned at the bottom. Here, a checkbox allows for quick activation or deactivation of the taskbar’s display across multiple monitors.
Taskbar Button Placement
The “Show taskbar buttons on” drop-down menu controls the placement of taskbar buttons. This allows users to designate which taskbar will display the buttons.
For instance, the initial screenshot accompanying this article originates from the primary Taskbar, while the subsequent image showcases the Taskbar on a secondary monitor.
Customizing Button Size
If larger taskbar buttons are desired on a secondary monitor, the “Buttons on other taskbars” setting can be adjusted accordingly.
The process is straightforward, and many users may have already encountered these settings while using Windows 8 or 10. However, it’s beneficial to know that Windows provides this functionality for a multi-monitor taskbar experience.
