Move a Window to Another Monitor: Shortcuts Compared
The native Windows shortcut, and what DMT adds on top for people who move windows all day.
The built-in shortcut
Win + Shift + Left/Right Arrow
Moves the focused window to the adjacent monitor. Free, no software needed — and the first thing to try. Limitations: it un-maximizes some windows, can’t target a specific monitor by number, and fails on elevated or fullscreen windows.
What DMT Swap Screen adds
- Move active window to next monitor — keeps maximized state, works where Win+Shift+Arrow gives up.
- Move all windows to a specified screen (v2.12+) — one key rescues your layout after undocking.
- Custom areas: up to 100 user-defined zones; throw a window to “left third of monitor 2” with one key.
- Minimize all on this monitor only — clear one screen for a call without touching the other.
Pro tips
- Run DMT as administrator so its hotkeys work on elevated windows too.
- Full walkthrough: Swap Screen guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut to move a window to another monitor?
Built into Windows: Win+Shift+Left/Right Arrow. DMT’s Swap Screen adds more: move to next monitor (works on maximized windows), minimize per-monitor, and custom screen areas.
Win+Shift+Arrow isn’t working — why?
Some apps (especially games and elevated windows) swallow the keystroke. DMT’s own hotkeys, running as administrator, usually succeed where the native shortcut fails.
Can I move a window to a specific monitor directly?
With DMT Swap Screen you can define hotkeys per monitor and per custom area — e.g. one key sends the window to monitor 2’s left half.
Ready to try Dual Monitor Tools?
Free, open-source, and portable. Get version 2.13 now.
Download DMT v2.13 (Free)