Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Middle-clicking a folder can open it in a new File Explorer tab by design. If each middle-click creates one tab, that may be expected behavior—not a “ghost tab” defect. First check whether you’re seeing extra tabs, tabs opening in the background, or duplicate folders in the navigation pane; they are different symptoms, and the cause of an unexpected case is not established.
What does “ghost tabs” mean in File Explorer?
“Ghost tabs” is not a defined term in the Microsoft documentation reviewed here. Describe exactly what happens before trying to fix it:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- One new tab per middle-click: Microsoft documented middle-clicking a folder to open it in a new tab in Windows Insider Build 25174. The note covered folders in the navigation pane and said the behavior matched what was already available for folders in the main pane. That is evidence for that build, not confirmation that every current Windows version behaves identically. Microsoft’s Build 25174 release notes.
- A tab opens in the background: This describes where the new tab appears relative to the active tab, not necessarily an extra tab appearing without a click. A Microsoft Q&A post reports this behavior, but a user report does not confirm a general current Windows defect. Microsoft Q&A discussion.
- Folders appear more than once: Duplicate entries such as Home, Documents, or Pictures in the navigation pane or on the desktop are not duplicate tabs. Microsoft discusses these as a separate folder-display issue. Microsoft’s guidance on duplicate folders.
How to identify the behavior
Reproduce it once and record what you see. This is a practical way to describe the symptom, not a Microsoft diagnostic procedure.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →- Note your Windows version and build.
- Record where you middle-clicked: a folder in the main pane or in the navigation pane.
- Count the tabs before and after the click. Note whether exactly one new tab appeared or whether additional tabs appeared.
- Check whether the new tab is active or sits in the background.
- Look separately for repeated folder entries in the navigation pane or on the desktop.
What to try if tabs keep appearing unexpectedly
If the behavior does not match the expected one-new-tab-per-middle-click interaction, use Microsoft’s general File Explorer troubleshooting guidance. The available documentation does not identify a specific cause or guarantee a repair for this exact symptom.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
- Follow the applicable steps in Microsoft’s File Explorer troubleshooting guidance.
- If the unexpected behavior persists, report it to Microsoft using Feedback Hub. Press Windows+F to open Feedback Hub with a screenshot, then describe what you clicked, what appeared, and whether the new tab was in the foreground or background. Microsoft says feedback can include an attached file; add relevant evidence if it helps show the symptom. See Microsoft’s instructions for sending feedback.
What not to assume
The reviewed Microsoft material does not confirm a general “ghost tabs” defect or a universal fix. It also does not support treating cache clearing, registry changes, reinstalling Windows, replacing a mouse, or adding a tab utility as established remedies for this symptom. Keep the report focused on what happened and the Windows build where you observed it.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
