Windows Key Shortcuts for Windows 10
Windows 10 provides completely a different user experience than previous versions. The major difference is the touch user interface which can also be controlled using a mouse. There are many shortcut keys available in Windows 10 and here are some useful shortcuts using Windows key in day to day life.
History of Windows Key
On a standard Microsoft keyboard Windows key is indicated with the Windows operating system symbol as shown below:
This key was first introduced on Microsoft Natural Keyboard during 1994. It was referred with multiple names as Windows key, start key, logo key, flag key, super key, command key or home key. During initial days two Windows keys were offered on the keyboard along with a menu key. This changed the number of keys on the keyboard from 101/102 to 103/104.
Windows Key Shortcuts on Windows 10
Below are some of the useful shortcuts using Windows key:
| Windows Key + | Function Details |
|---|---|
| Win + 1-9 | This will open the applications in the task bar in a sequential manner For example, pressing Win+1 will open the first application in the launch bar. |
| Win + + or - | Increase or decrease the magnification. |
| Win + , | Show desktop temporarily. |
| Win + ? | Open Windows feedback app. |
| Win + A | Open action center. |
| Win + Alt + R | Start or stop screen recording on Xbox app. |
| Win + Ctrl + D | Create a new virtual desktop. |
| Win + Ctrl + F4 | Close the current virtual desktop. |
| Win + D | Show desktop by minimizing all open windows on all connected monitors. You can press "Windows key + D" again to restore the open windows like before. |
| Win + Down Arrow | Minimize the active window. |
| Win + E | Open explorer window. |
| Win + F | Open Windows 10 feedback hub. |
| Win + F1 | Open Windows help menu. |
| Win + G | Open Game bar. |
| Win + H | Open share sidebar. |
| Win + Home | Minimize all open windows except the active window only on the current monitor. Toggle with pressing the keys again. |
| Win + I | Open settings menu. |
| Win + K | Open connect sidebar for connecting new bluetooth devices. |
| Win + L | Used quickly to lock your computer by default, the usage can be changed to switch users. |
| Win + Left Arrow | Move the window to left side or right side of the screen. |
| Win + O | Screen lock. |
| Win + P | Opens screen sharing options with the projector (toggle between screen, projector, extend or duplicate display options). |
| Win + Pause/Break | Display system properties. |
| Win + Print Screen | Take screenshot of the virtual desktop and automatically save under "/Pictures/Screenshots" folder. |
| Win + PrintScreen | Take instant screenshot of your window using this key combination. The picture will be automatically stored in your "Pictures > Screenshots" folder as a PNG image. |
| Win + Q | Open Cortana search with the voice input. |
| Win + R | Open run windows for reaching command prompt. |
| Win + Right Arrow | Move the window to right side or right side of the screen. |
| Win + S | Open Cortana search with the type input. |
| Win + Spacebar | Choose input language. |
| Win + U | Open "Ease of Access Center" from control panel with the options like Narrator, Magnifiers, On screen keyboard, etc. |
| Win + Up Arrow | Maximize the active window. |
| Win + W | Open search window with the default option as "Settings". |
| Win + X | Open Windows 10 context menu at the start menu position. This will offer many useful links like Task Manager, Device Manager, Control Panel, Run, etc.+ F : Open search file option used to locate files in the computer. |
Open Applications using Windows Key Shortcut
Pressing Windows key alternatively will show Start screen and Desktop alternatively in Windows 8.