Windows

How To Get Full Screen On Windows 8

Did you know that getting full screen on Windows 8 can greatly enhance your user experience? If you're tired of dealing with the limited screen real estate and want to make the most out of your Windows 8 device, then you've come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve full screen, giving you a more immersive and visually pleasing computing experience.

Windows 8 brought a significant change in the user interface with its tile-based Start screen and modern apps. However, navigating through these apps in the traditional windowed mode can feel restrictive. To truly take advantage of the fluid, touch-centric interface, full screen mode offers a seamless experience by eliminating distractions and maximizing the available space. Simply maximize the app window or switch to tablet mode to enjoy a clutter-free and visually stunning display. Embracing the full screen on Windows 8 allows you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite apps and enjoy a more focused work or entertainment environment.




Windows 8: How to Get Full Screen

Windows 8 introduced a sleek and modern user interface, characterized by its tiled Start screen. Although this interface was designed for touch-enabled devices, many users prefer the traditional full-screen view for certain apps and programs. If you're wondering how to get full screen on Windows 8, you're in the right place. In this guide, we will explore different methods to maximize your window and enjoy a fully immersive experience on Windows 8.

Method 1: Using the Maximize Button

The easiest way to get full screen on Windows 8 is by using the maximize button located in the top-right corner of any window. This button is represented by a square icon and is usually placed next to the minimize and close buttons.

To maximize a window, simply click on the maximize button. The window will expand to fill your entire screen, providing you with a distraction-free environment and a larger workspace. You can also double-click on the title bar of a window to achieve the same result.

If you want to exit full screen mode, click on the restore button, which is displayed as an icon resembling two overlapping squares, located next to the maximize button. Alternatively, you can press the Escape key on your keyboard.

The maximize button is a convenient and straightforward way to get full screen on Windows 8. However, there are other methods that offer more flexibility and customization options, which we will explore next.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, Windows 8 provides a combination of keys that allow you to quickly toggle between windowed and full-screen mode. These shortcuts can be useful if you want to switch back and forth between different windows without having to manually click on buttons.

Shortcut Action
Windows Key + Up Arrow Maximize the current window
Windows Key + Down Arrow Restore or minimize the current window
Windows Key + Left Arrow Resize the current window to fit the left half of the screen
Windows Key + Right Arrow Resize the current window to fit the right half of the screen

By using these keyboard shortcuts, you can easily maximize and restore windows without the need for a mouse or touch input. These shortcuts also provide additional functionality, allowing you to resize and position windows to specific regions of your screen.

Keep in mind that the keyboard shortcuts may vary depending on your system configuration and installed applications, so it's always a good idea to check the documentation or online resources for a comprehensive list of shortcuts.

Method 3: Using Desktop Mode

If you're using Windows 8 on a desktop computer or laptop without a touch screen, you can take advantage of the Desktop mode to get a more traditional full-screen experience. The Desktop mode resembles the interface of previous Windows versions and allows you to work with windows in a familiar way.

To access the Desktop mode, simply click on the Desktop tile on the Start screen or press the Windows key + D on your keyboard. Once in Desktop mode, you can maximize windows by using the maximize button or the keyboard shortcuts mentioned in the previous methods.

Desktop mode provides a more windows-focused environment, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a traditional computing experience, especially when working with legacy applications that are not optimized for touch screens.

Customizing the Full-Screen Experience

The methods mentioned so far offer standard full screen options on Windows 8. However, if you want to further customize your full-screen experience, you can explore additional settings and features.

Windows 8 allows you to adjust the size and appearance of fonts, icons, and other interface elements, providing a more personalized and visually pleasing full-screen experience. You can access these settings through the Control Panel or the Settings app.

Additionally, some applications and programs may have their own full-screen settings and options. These settings can usually be found in the application's preferences or settings menu. By exploring these settings, you can fine-tune the full-screen experience according to your preferences and needs.

Remember that customization options may vary depending on the specific application or program you are using. It's always a good idea to explore the settings and preferences to discover the full potential of the full-screen experience.

Alternate Methods for Full Screen on Windows 8

Aside from the methods mentioned above, there are a few alternate methods that you can use to achieve a full-screen view on Windows 8. Let's explore these methods:

Method 4: Using Third-Party Apps

If you're looking for more advanced full-screen features or additional customization options, you can rely on third-party apps specifically designed for Windows 8. These apps offer enhanced full-screen experiences, allowing you to control various aspects of the interface, such as window transparency, virtual desktops, and more.

Popular third-party apps for full-screen management on Windows 8 include Stardock's "Start8" and "Fences," which provide additional options and features for the Start screen and desktop organization.

Before installing any third-party apps, it's essential to ensure that they come from trusted sources and have positive reviews and ratings. Additionally, make sure to familiarize yourself with the app's features and settings to get the most out of your full-screen experience.

Method 5: Using Browser Extensions

If you primarily use web browsers on Windows 8, you can achieve a full-screen view using browser extensions. Popular browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge offer various extensions that enhance the full-screen experience.

Extensions like "Full Screen" for Chrome or "Full Screen Plus" for Firefox provide additional features and customization options for full-screen browsing, including auto-hide toolbars, adjustable zoom levels, and more. Check your preferred browser's extension store for available options.

When installing browser extensions, it's crucial to review permissions and ratings to ensure that they meet your security and privacy requirements.

In conclusion, Windows 8 offers multiple methods to achieve a full-screen view, whether you prefer the built-in options or choose to explore third-party apps and browser extensions for enhanced customization. By maximizing your windows, using keyboard shortcuts, or utilizing desktop mode, you can enjoy a fully immersive experience on Windows 8 that suits your preferences and needs.


How To Get Full Screen On Windows 8

Optimizing Full Screen on Windows 8

When working on Windows 8, maximizing your screen real estate can enhance your productivity and overall user experience. Here are a few methods to achieve full screen on your Windows 8 device:

Method 1: Using the Maximize Button

The most straightforward way to get full screen on Windows 8 is by using the maximize button located in the top-right corner of each window. Simply click on the button, represented by a square symbol, to expand the window to full screen.

Method 2: Keyboard Shortcut

An alternative method is to use the keyboard shortcut for maximizing windows on Windows 8. Press the "Win + Up Arrow" keys together, and the active window will automatically go into full screen mode.

Method 3: Adjusting Display Settings

If you prefer to have all windows open in full screen mode by default, you can adjust the display settings. Right-click on the desktop, select "Screen resolution," and set the resolution to the highest available option. This will make all windows open in full screen mode.


Key Takeaways - How to Get Full Screen on Windows 8

  • Press F11 to enter full screen mode on Windows 8.
  • Right-click on the taskbar and select "Properties" to access the taskbar settings.
  • Check the "Auto-hide the taskbar" option to make the taskbar disappear when not in use.
  • Use the "Start" button to access the Start menu and open applications in full screen mode.
  • Use the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Up arrow to maximize a window to full screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many Windows 8 users may find themselves wondering how to get full screen on their devices. To help you out, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions related to this topic. Read on to find the answers you are looking for!

1. How do I maximize a window to full screen on Windows 8?

To maximize a window to full screen on Windows 8, simply click on the expand button located on the top-right corner of the window. This button is represented by a square icon. Alternatively, you can press the "F11" key on your keyboard to enter full screen mode.

Once the window is in full screen mode, you can enjoy a larger viewing area and make the most out of your screen space. To exit full screen mode, either click on the restore button (the same one you used to maximize the window) or press the "F11" key again.

2. Can I set an application to always open in full screen mode?

Yes, you can set an application to always open in full screen mode on Windows 8. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the application's shortcut or executable file and select "Properties" from the context menu.

2. In the "Properties" window, go to the "Shortcut" tab.

3. In the "Run" dropdown menu, select "Maximized".

4. Click on "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Now, whenever you open the application, it will automatically launch in full screen mode.

3. Is there a keyboard shortcut to toggle between full screen and normal mode?

Yes, there is a keyboard shortcut to toggle between full screen and normal mode on Windows 8. Simply press the "F11" key on your keyboard to switch between these modes. This shortcut works for most applications and web browsers.

Using this keyboard shortcut, you can quickly enter and exit full screen mode without needing to use the mouse or touchpad.

4. Can I adjust the resolution of my screen in full screen mode?

No, you cannot adjust the resolution of your screen while in full screen mode on Windows 8. The resolution settings can only be changed when the window is in normal mode.

If you need to modify the resolution, you will have to exit full screen mode and make the necessary changes in the display settings. Once the changes are applied, you can re-enter full screen mode if desired.

5. Why does my window sometimes exit full screen mode on its own?

If your window sporadically exits full screen mode on its own, it could be due to various reasons. Here are a few possible causes:

- A conflicting keyboard shortcut that triggers the exit command.

- An application or program running in the background that interrupts the full screen mode.

- A glitch or bug in the operating system or application itself.

If you encounter this issue frequently, try disabling any unnecessary background processes or updating your software to the latest version. If the problem persists, it may be worth consulting technical support or seeking further assistance.



To get full screen on Windows 8, there are a few simple steps you can follow. First, open the application or program that you want to view in full screen mode. Then, locate the maximize button in the top right corner of the window and click on it. This will expand the window to fill your entire screen, giving you a full screen experience.

If the maximize button is not visible or does not work, you can try pressing the F11 key on your keyboard. This is a shortcut that activates the full screen mode for many applications and programs. Finally, if none of these options work, you may need to adjust the display settings on your computer. To do this, right-click on your desktop and select "Screen Resolution." From there, you can choose the appropriate display settings to ensure that your application or program fills the entire screen.


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