Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
Redmond desk3 min

Snap Assist in Windows 11: How to Snap and Arrange Your Apps

Snap windows in Windows 11 with mouse, keyboard, or Snap layouts, then use suggestions to fill the arrangement and adjust its settings.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To use Snap Assist in Windows 11, snap a window to an edge or choose a layout with Windows key + Z, then select the other open windows you want to place alongside it. You can resize the arrangement by dragging its divider and manage the feature under Settings > System > Multitasking.

What Snap Assist does

Snap Assist helps you complete a window arrangement after you place the first app. When you snap a window, Windows can show thumbnails of other open windows so you can choose one for the remaining space. The layout suggestions depend on the layout you start with, and the predetermined layouts available can vary with display size. Microsoft does not specify a size threshold or map particular layouts to particular resolutions.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Snap Assist is part of Windows. Microsoft’s guide to the feature is Snap Your Windows.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose how to start a snap

Method How to start Useful when
Drag to an edge or corner Drag a window to a screen edge or corner and drop it when the placement guide appears. You want to place a window directly with the mouse.
Snap layouts Hover over a window’s maximize or restore button, or press Windows key + Z, then choose a layout. You want to start from a predetermined arrangement.
Keyboard snapping Hold the Windows key and press an arrow key to move the active window into a snap position. You prefer to arrange windows without the mouse.
Top-edge Snap bar Drag a window toward the top of the screen and choose a layout from the bar. You want to select a layout while dragging a window.

Snap a window and fill the remaining space

  1. Open the apps you want to arrange.
  2. Snap the first app. Drag it to a screen edge or corner and release it when the placement guide shows where it will go. For a layout, hover over the app’s maximize or restore button or press Windows key + Z, then select a layout.
  3. When Snap Assist displays thumbnails of other open windows, select the one you want in the next space.
  4. If the layout has more empty spaces, select additional windows as prompted.

For a two-window arrangement, snap the first window and choose the second from the thumbnails. You can instead choose the layout first, then fill its spaces with open windows.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Amazon Basics Wired QWERTY Keyboard, Works with Windows, Plug and Play, Easy to Use with Media Control, Full-Sized, Black
  • KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
  • EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
  • VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
  • SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
  • FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.

Use keyboard shortcuts to snap windows

  1. Make the window you want to arrange active.
  2. Hold the Windows key and press Left Arrow or Right Arrow to snap it to the corresponding side.
  3. Continue pressing arrow keys while holding the Windows key to move the window among available positions, then release the Windows key to set it.
  4. Choose another open window to fill the remaining space if Snap Assist offers suggestions.

Microsoft’s Windows keyboard-shortcut reference lists the left- and right-arrow snapping shortcuts and Windows key + Z for Snap layouts.

Resize snapped windows

Move the pointer over the divider between snapped windows, then drag it to change their relative sizes. Adjoining snapped windows resize to fit together.

Rank #2
Sale
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard, spill-resistant, curved space bar, Windows PC and laptops compatible
  • All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
  • Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
  • Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
  • Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
  • Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*

Return to a Snap group

After arranging windows, hover over the taskbar icon of an app in the group and choose the group to restore it. Snap groups also appear in Task View and Alt+Tab.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Change Snap Assist settings

  1. Open Settings > System > Multitasking.
  2. Turn on Snap windows if snapping is disabled.
  3. Expand the Snap windows section to review the available controls. Depending on your Windows version, these can include showing suggestions after you snap a window, showing Snap layouts when you hover over the maximize button, displaying the Snap bar when you drag a window to the top edge, and showing Snap groups.

Settings names and available controls can vary by Windows version. Check the labels displayed on your device.

Rank #3
Sale
Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard with number pad, 8 multimedia keys, includes USB-A receiver, 2-year battery, compatible with PC, laptop
  • All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
  • Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
  • Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
  • Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
  • Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Troubleshoot missing suggestions or layouts

  • No suggestions after snapping: In Settings > System > Multitasking, check whether When I snap a window, show what I can snap next to it is enabled.
  • No layout flyout on hover: Review the maximize-button Snap layout option in the expanded Snap windows settings.
  • No bar while dragging to the top: Review the top-edge Snap bar option in the same settings area.

These behaviors have separate controls. If a control is absent or a window does not behave as expected, the cause can depend on the Windows version, device configuration, or app; the settings alone do not identify a specific cause.

Quick Recap

SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard, spill-resistant, curved space bar, Windows PC and laptops compatible
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard, spill-resistant, curved space bar, Windows PC and laptops compatible
Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*; Product carbon footprint: 4.02 kg CO2e
$12.39
SaleBestseller No. 3
Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard with number pad, 8 multimedia keys, includes USB-A receiver, 2-year battery, compatible with PC, laptop
Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard with number pad, 8 multimedia keys, includes USB-A receiver, 2-year battery, compatible with PC, laptop
Plastic parts in K270 include 38% certified post-consumer recycled plastic; Eight hot keys: For instant access to the Internet, e-mail, music volume and more
$21.48
Bestseller No. 5
Arteck Backlit USB Wired Full Size Keyboard with Media Hotkey for PC and Laptop
Arteck Backlit USB Wired Full Size Keyboard with Media Hotkey for PC and Laptop
7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
$32.97
Best Value
Arteck Backlit USB Wired Full Size Keyboard with Media Hotkey for PC and Laptop
  • 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
  • Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
  • Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
  • Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
  • Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
Sale
Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black | Full size wired keyboard, optical wired mouse, USB plug-and-play, Windows only, pc and laptop compatible
  • Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
  • Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
  • Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
  • Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
  • Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.