Are you stuck in tablet mode on your Windows 11 device and wondering how to get back to desktop mode? Or maybe you want to switch between the two for a smoother workflow? Windows 11 handles tablet mode differently from Windows 10, and that’s why many users get confused when trying to change it.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to change tablet mode to desktop mode in Windows 11 step by step, along with some tips to optimize your experience.
What Is Tablet Mode in Windows 11?
Tablet mode is designed for touch-enabled devices, like 2-in-1 laptops and tablets. It:
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Enlarges icons and spacing for easier touch navigation
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Hides or simplifies taskbar elements
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Focuses on gesture-based navigation
Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 doesn’t have a dedicated “Tablet Mode” toggle. Instead, it automatically switches based on whether a keyboard is attached or detached.
Why Switch Between Tablet and Desktop Mode?
You might want to:
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Use desktop mode for multitasking with a mouse and keyboard
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Switch to tablet mode for touch-only use
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Avoid accidental gestures when typing
How to Change Tablet Mode to Desktop Mode in Windows 11
Although Windows 11 removed the old manual toggle, you can still control the behavior. Here are the best methods:
Method 1: Detach or Attach Your Keyboard
For convertible laptops and Surface devices:
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Attach the keyboard to your device.
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Windows 11 will automatically switch to desktop mode.
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To go back to tablet mode, detach it again.
This is the simplest method, as Windows 11 detects hardware changes.
Method 2: Change Tablet Mode Settings
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to System > Tablet.
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Under When I use this device as a tablet, select:
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Always ask me before switching (for manual choice)
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Never use tablet mode (forces desktop mode)
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This prevents automatic switching.
Method 3: Use Quick Settings (If Available)
Some devices offer a quick toggle:
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Click the Quick Settings panel (bottom right corner).
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Look for a tablet mode icon (on some devices).
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Toggle it Off to return to desktop mode.
Note: This option isn’t available on all Windows 11 devices.
Method 4: Adjust Taskbar Behavior
Tablet mode modifies your taskbar. To make it look like desktop mode:
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Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
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Disable Automatically hide the taskbar when using tablet mode (if enabled).
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Customize icons and behavior to match desktop style.
How to Know If You’re in Tablet Mode
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Taskbar icons are spaced farther apart
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File Explorer opens in a more touch-friendly layout
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Keyboard pops up automatically when tapping text fields
Can You Permanently Disable Tablet Mode?
Yes, you can set your device to always use desktop mode:
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Open Settings > System > Tablet.
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Choose Never use tablet mode.
This ensures Windows won’t automatically switch.
Tips for Smooth Switching
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Keep your drivers updated for your touch screen and keyboard.
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If switching doesn’t work, restart your device.
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On 2-in-1s, make sure your hinge sensors are working properly.
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 has changed how tablet mode works compared to Windows 10. There’s no longer a dedicated switch—it’s now more automatic and hardware-driven. But with the settings mentioned above, you can easily control when and how your device switches between tablet and desktop modes.
Conclusion
You’ve now learned how to change tablet mode to desktop mode in Windows 11 using different methods. Whether you’re using a Surface device, a 2-in-1 laptop, or a touch-enabled notebook, the process is straightforward once you know where to look.
FAQs
1. Why don’t I see tablet mode in Windows 11?
Because Microsoft removed the dedicated toggle—now it’s automatic.
2. Can I use tablet mode on a non-touch device?
No, it’s only for touch-enabled devices.
3. Why does my device keep switching automatically?
It may be set to auto-detect keyboard attachment—change it in System > Tablet.
4. Is there any way to get the old tablet mode toggle back?
Not natively, but some third-party tools can simulate it.
5. Will turning off tablet mode affect my apps?
No, your apps will work normally in either mode.