🚀 How to Move Windows Between Displays on Mac Using Keyboard Shortcuts | Unlock maximum productivity with Mac window shortcuts, move windows between displays on Mac
Introduction
Are you a Mac user with multiple monitors? Do you often find yourself dragging windows from one display to another, wishing there was a faster way? Good news: macOS allows you to set up custom keyboard shortcuts to move windows between displays instantly—no third-party apps required! In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to create these shortcuts and boost your productivity.1. ⏩ Why Move Windows With a Shortcut?
Multiple displays are a game-changer for productivity, whether you’re using a MacBook with an external monitor or a desktop setup with two or more screens. However, constantly dragging windows with your mouse can be tedious and disrupt your workflow. By assigning keyboard shortcuts, you can quickly send any active window to another screen—saving time and keeping your focus where it belongs.2. 🖥️ The Built-in Menu Command for Moving Windows
macOS already includes a convenient menu command for moving windows between displays:- Open the app window you want to move.
- Go to the Menu Bar, click on “Window.”
- Look for the “Move to [Display Name]” command.
While this menu command is handy, it’s even better when triggered with a keyboard shortcut!
3. 📝 How to Add a Keyboard Shortcut for Moving Windows Between Displays
Step 1: Identify the Exact Menu Command
Before you create a shortcut, note the exact name of the menu command for your displays. For example, it might say:- “Move to LG Ultra HD”
- “Move to Built-In Retina Display”
The display names are based on your hardware, so they may differ from the examples above.
Step 2: Open System Settings
Click the Apple menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).- Go to Keyboard.
- Click on Keyboard Shortcuts.
Step 3: Add a New App Shortcut
In the left sidebar, select App Shortcuts.- Click the + (plus) button to add a new shortcut.
- For Application, choose All Applications (so the shortcut works everywhere).
- In Menu Title, type the menu command exactly as it appears (e.g., Move to LG Ultra HD , Move to Built-in Retina Display). This must match perfectly, including spaces and capitalization.
- Click in the Keyboard Shortcut field and press your desired key combination.
- Click Add.
Step 4: Add Shortcuts for Other Displays
Repeat the process for each display:- Use the exact menu title for each display (e.g., Move to Built-In Retina Display).
- Assign a logical shortcut (e.g., Command + Option + Left Arrow for the left display).
Now on windows menu you can see the Shortcut
Step 5: Test Your Shortcuts
- Select any window (Finder, Notes, Pages, etc.).
- Use your new keyboard shortcut.
4. 🖱️ Example: Moving a Window Between Two Displays
Suppose you have a MacBook and an external LG monitor. Here’s how you might set it up:Move to LG Ultra HD:
- Menu Title: Move to LG Ultra HD
- Shortcut: Command + Option + Right Arrow
Move to Built-In Retina Display:
- Menu Title: Move to Built-In Retina Display
- Shortcut: Command + Option + Left Arrow
5. 🧠 Tips for Using Window Move Shortcuts Effectively
- Consistency: Use the same shortcuts across all apps for muscle memory.
- Multiple Displays: If you have three or more monitors, consider using Up Arrow or Down Arrow combinations for the center display.
- Combine With Other Shortcuts: Use Command + Tab to quickly switch apps, then your window-move shortcut to send the active window to another screen.
- Check Menu Names After Hardware Changes: If you change monitors, the display name may update—double-check your shortcuts if something stops working.
6. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will this work in all apps?
Yes! As long as the app uses the standard macOS Window menu, this shortcut will work. It’s effective in Finder, Notes, Pages, Safari, and most other native apps.What if the shortcut doesn’t work?
- Double-check the Menu Title—it must match exactly.
- Make sure your chosen shortcut isn’t already used by another system function.
- Try restarting the app or logging out and back in.
Can I use other key combinations?
Absolutely! Choose shortcuts that make sense for your workflow and aren’t already in use.7. ✅ Why This Method Is Better Than Third-Party Apps
While there are third-party tools for window management, using macOS’s built-in menu commands and custom shortcuts is:- Secure: No need to grant extra permissions or install unknown software.
- Reliable: Works with system updates and across all standard apps.
- Customizable: Tailor shortcuts to your preferences for maximum efficiency.
8. 📅 Conclusion
Moving windows between displays on a Mac doesn’t have to be a hassle. By leveraging macOS’s built-in menu commands and creating your own keyboard shortcuts, you can instantly send any window to any screen—no mouse required. This small tweak can save you time, reduce frustration, and help you get the most out of your multi-monitor setup.Try it today:
- Identify your display names in the Window menu.
- Set up your custom shortcuts in System Settings.
- Enjoy seamless window management with just a keypress!
📚 Table of Contents
- ⏩ Why Move Windows With a Shortcut?
- 🖥️ The Built-in Menu Command for Moving Windows
- 📝 How to Add a Keyboard Shortcut for Moving Windows Between Displays
- Step 1: Identify the Exact Menu Command
- Step 2: Open System Settings
- Step 3: Add a New App Shortcut
- Step 4: Add Shortcuts for Other Displays
- Step 5: Test Your Shortcuts
- 🖱️ Example: Moving a Window Between Two Displays
- 🧠 Tips for Using Window Move Shortcuts Effectively
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- ✅ Why This Method Is Better Than Third-Party Apps
- 📅 Conclusion
For more Mac tips and productivity hacks, keep exploring the Blog and make your workflow smoother every day!
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