How to Turn Off Auto Maximize on Windows 10

Have you ever experienced that moment when you are focusing on a specific task and suddenly your application or window maximizes automatically? Windows 10 has a feature called "Snap" that automatically maximizes and arranges your windows on the screen. While this feature can be useful, sometimes it can be annoying and get in the way of your productivity. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to turn off auto maximize on Windows 10.

Video Tutorial:

What’s Needed

To turn off auto maximize on Windows 10, you will need access to your computer’s settings and control panel. No additional software is required.

What Requires Your Focus?

Before we dive into the different methods to turn off auto maximize on Windows 10, it is important to know that each method may affect the way you use your computer. Some methods may disable other features that you find useful or change the way your windows behave.

Different Methods to Turn off Auto Maximize on Windows 10

Method 1: Using the Settings App

Windows 10 has a built-in settings app that allows you to customize and manage various features on your computer. Here’s how to turn off auto maximize using the Settings app:

1. Open the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open the Settings app.
2. Click on the "System" category.
3. Click on "Multitasking" from the left-hand menu.
4. In the "Snap" section, turn off the toggle switch for "Arrange windows automatically by dragging them to the sides or corners of the screen."

Pros:
– Easy to access and use.
– Doesn’t require any third-party software.

Cons:
– Disables the Snap feature entirely.
– May affect other multitasking features.

Method 2: Using the Registry Editor

Windows Registry is a database that stores settings and configuration information for Windows and installed programs. Here’s how to turn off auto maximize using the Registry Editor:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
4. Look for the value "DockMoving" and double-click on it.
5. Change the value data from "1" to "0" and click OK.

Pros:
– Provides more control over specific features.
– Doesn’t require any third-party software.

Cons:
– May cause system instability if used incorrectly.
– Requires editing the Windows Registry, which can be risky.

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Software

There are third-party software programs available that can help you turn off auto maximize on Windows 10. Some examples include AquaSnap, WindowSpace, and DisplayFusion. Here’s how to use AquaSnap:

1. Download and install AquaSnap from the official website.
2. Open AquaSnap and click on the "Snapping" tab.
3. Uncheck the box next to "Enable snapping."
4. Click on "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Pros:
– Provides more control over specific features.
– Offers additional customization options.
– May have other useful features.

Cons:
– Requires downloading and installing additional software.
– May not be free.

Why Can’t I Turn off Auto Maximize on Windows 10?

1. Snap is enabled: If the Snap feature is enabled, it will automatically arrange your windows on the screen. To turn off Snap, you can either use the Settings app or a third-party software.
2. Dock Moving is enabled: Another possible reason why you can’t turn off auto maximize is that Dock Moving is enabled. You can use the Registry Editor to turn off Dock Moving by changing the value data of the "DockMoving" key to "0".
3. Third-party software is conflicting: If you have a third-party software installed that manages your windows or multitasking features, it may conflict with your attempts to turn off auto maximize. Try disabling or uninstalling the conflicting software.

Implications and Recommendations

Turning off auto maximize on Windows 10 can affect other features, such as Snap and Dock Moving. It is important to review all the features that are affected before making any changes. We recommend using the Settings app method first before trying the Registry Editor or a third-party software. If you decide to use the Registry Editor, proceed with caution and create a backup of your registry before making any changes.

5 FAQs about Turning off Auto Maximize on Windows 10

Q1: Can I turn off auto maximize for specific applications?

A: No, turning off auto maximize will affect all applications and windows on your computer.

Q2: Will turning off auto maximize affect other multitasking features?

A: Yes, turning off auto maximize may affect other multitasking features such as Snap and Dock Moving.

Q3: Does disabling Snap disable all multitasking features?

A: No, disabling Snap only disables the Snap feature. Other multitasking features may still be available.

Q4: Can I still use keyboard shortcuts to manage my windows?

A: Yes, keyboard shortcuts should still work regardless of whether auto maximize is turned on or off.

Q5: Is it safe to use the Registry Editor?

A: It is generally safe to use the Registry Editor, but it is important to proceed with caution and create a backup of your registry before making any changes.

Final Words

Auto maximize can be an annoying feature when it interferes with your workflow. However, it can also be a helpful feature for multitasking and productivity. We hope that this blog post has provided you with different methods to turn off auto maximize on Windows 10 and the necessary precautions before making any changes.