How to Exit Fullscreen Mode on Your Computer

Introduction

This comprehensive guide will teach you how to unfullscreen your computer on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Whether you're working, gaming, or watching videos, knowing how to exit fullscreen mode is a valuable skill. Follow along as we explore the step-by-step instructions and keyboard shortcuts to regain control of your desktop.

Skills Graph

What is Fullscreen Mode?

Fullscreen mode, also known as "full-screen mode" or "maximized mode," is a display setting that allows an application or a web browser to take up the entire visible area of the computer screen. When an application or a web page is in fullscreen mode, it hides the operating system's user interface elements, such as the taskbar, menu bars, and window borders, providing a more immersive and distraction-free experience.

Fullscreen mode is commonly used for various purposes, such as:

Multimedia Playback

When watching videos, playing games, or viewing images, fullscreen mode can enhance the viewing experience by providing a larger and more immersive display.

Presentations and Slideshows

Presenters often use fullscreen mode to display their slides or presentations without any distractions, allowing the audience to focus on the content.

Web Browsing

Some websites or web applications may offer a fullscreen mode to provide a more focused and distraction-free browsing experience, especially for tasks like reading, writing, or online learning.

Productivity and Workflow

Fullscreen mode can help users concentrate on their work by minimizing visual distractions and providing a larger workspace.

To enter fullscreen mode, users can typically use a keyboard shortcut, a menu option, or a dedicated button or icon within the application or web browser. The specific steps to enter and exit fullscreen mode may vary depending on the operating system and the application being used.

Exiting Fullscreen Mode on Windows

On Windows, there are several ways to exit fullscreen mode, depending on the application or web browser you are using.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The most common keyboard shortcut to exit fullscreen mode on Windows is:

• Alt + F4

This shortcut will close the current fullscreen application or web browser window.

Alternatively, you can use the following shortcuts:

• Esc (Escape key)
• F11

These shortcuts will typically exit the fullscreen mode and return the application or web browser to its normal window size.

Using the Mouse

In some cases, you can also exit fullscreen mode by using the mouse:

1. Move the mouse cursor to the top of the screen until the menu bar or window controls appear.
2. Click on the "Restore Down" or "Maximize/Minimize" button to exit fullscreen mode.

Using the Application Menu

Many applications and web browsers provide a menu option to exit fullscreen mode. Look for an option like "Exit Fullscreen," "Restore," or "Maximize/Minimize" in the application's menu.

By using these methods, you can easily exit fullscreen mode on your Windows computer and return to the normal desktop environment.

Exiting Fullscreen Mode on macOS

On macOS, the process of exiting fullscreen mode is slightly different from Windows. Here are the various methods you can use:

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The most common keyboard shortcut to exit fullscreen mode on macOS is:

• Control + Command + F

This shortcut will toggle the fullscreen mode, allowing you to exit and return to the normal desktop view.

Alternatively, you can also use the following shortcuts:

• Esc (Escape key)
• Control + F (for some applications)

Using the Menu Bar

Many applications on macOS provide a menu bar at the top of the screen. Look for an option like "Exit Full Screen" or "Zoom" in the application's menu to exit the fullscreen mode.

Using the Mouse

In some cases, you can also exit fullscreen mode by using the mouse:

1. Move the mouse cursor to the top of the screen until the menu bar appears.
2. Click on the green "Maximize" button (the green button in the top-left corner of the window) to exit fullscreen mode.

By using these methods, you can easily exit fullscreen mode on your macOS computer and return to the normal desktop environment.

Exiting Fullscreen Mode on Linux

Exiting fullscreen mode on Linux can vary depending on the desktop environment and the application you are using. Here are some common methods:

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The most common keyboard shortcut to exit fullscreen mode on Linux is:

• Alt + F11

This shortcut will typically toggle the fullscreen mode, allowing you to exit and return to the normal desktop view.

Alternatively, you can also use the following shortcuts:

• Esc (Escape key)
• F11

These shortcuts may work for some applications, but their functionality can vary across different desktop environments and applications.

Using the Application Menu

Many applications on Linux provide a menu option to exit fullscreen mode. Look for an option like "Exit Fullscreen," "Restore," or "Maximize/Minimize" in the application's menu.

Using the Window Manager

Depending on your Linux desktop environment, you may be able to use the window manager's controls to exit fullscreen mode. For example, in GNOME, you can move the mouse cursor to the top of the screen to reveal the top panel, then click the "Restore" button to exit fullscreen mode.

By using these methods, you can easily exit fullscreen mode on your Linux computer and return to the normal desktop environment.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Exiting Fullscreen

Keyboard shortcuts are a quick and efficient way to exit fullscreen mode across different operating systems and applications. Here are the most common keyboard shortcuts for exiting fullscreen:

Windows

• Alt + F4: Close the current fullscreen application or web browser window.
• Esc: Exit fullscreen mode and return to the normal window.
• F11: Toggle fullscreen mode on and off.

macOS

• Control + Command + F: Toggle fullscreen mode.
• Esc: Exit fullscreen mode.
• Control + F: Exit fullscreen mode (for some applications).

Linux

• Alt + F11: Toggle fullscreen mode.
• Esc: Exit fullscreen mode.
• F11: Toggle fullscreen mode (may vary across desktop environments and applications).

Here's a table summarizing the keyboard shortcuts for exiting fullscreen mode on different operating systems:

By remembering and using these keyboard shortcuts, you can quickly and easily exit fullscreen mode on your computer, regardless of the operating system or application you are using.

Troubleshooting Fullscreen Issues

Sometimes, users may encounter issues when trying to exit fullscreen mode. Here are some common problems and their potential solutions:

Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working

If the keyboard shortcuts for exiting fullscreen mode are not working, try the following:

1. Ensure that the correct keyboard shortcuts are being used for your operating system.
2. Check if the application or web browser supports the specific keyboard shortcuts.
3. Verify that the keyboard and input settings are configured correctly.

Application or Web Browser Not Exiting Fullscreen

If the application or web browser is not responding to the exit fullscreen commands, try the following:

1. Force quit the application or web browser and relaunch it.
2. Check for any updates or compatibility issues with the application or web browser.
3. Ensure that the display drivers and graphics card are up-to-date.

Fullscreen Mode Not Engaging

If the application or web browser is not entering fullscreen mode as expected, try the following:

1. Verify that the application or web browser supports fullscreen mode.
2. Check the display settings and ensure that the resolution and aspect ratio are compatible with the fullscreen mode.
3. Ensure that there are no conflicting display settings or applications running in the background.

Persistent Fullscreen Mode

If the application or web browser remains in fullscreen mode even after attempting to exit, try the following:

1. Force quit the application or web browser and relaunch it.
2. Check for any system-level settings or third-party applications that may be interfering with the fullscreen mode.
3. Restart the computer to reset the display settings.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve most issues related to exiting fullscreen mode on your Linux system.

Optimizing Your Fullscreen Experience

To get the most out of your fullscreen experience, consider the following tips:

Adjust Display Settings

Ensure that your display settings are optimized for fullscreen mode. This may include:

• Selecting the appropriate resolution and aspect ratio for your display.
• Enabling any available high-performance or low-latency display modes.
• Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color settings to your preference.

Disable Notifications and Distractions

To minimize interruptions and maintain focus, consider disabling or muting notifications from your operating system and applications while in fullscreen mode.

Customize Application Settings

Many applications and web browsers offer settings to enhance the fullscreen experience. Look for options to:

• Disable toolbars, menus, and other UI elements.
• Adjust the application's behavior and appearance in fullscreen mode.
• Enable any available "focus mode" or "distraction-free" settings.

Leverage LabEx Features

If you're using LabEx, take advantage of its features to optimize your fullscreen experience. LabEx provides tools and settings specifically designed to enhance productivity and immersion in fullscreen mode.

By implementing these optimization techniques, you can create a more seamless and enjoyable fullscreen experience on your Linux system.

Summary

By the end of this tutorial, you'll be able to confidently exit fullscreen mode on your computer, regardless of the operating system. Mastering this skill will help you navigate your desktop more efficiently and optimize your fullscreen experience. Remember, the ability to unfullscreen is a handy tool that can improve your overall productivity and enjoyment when using your computer.