If you’ve ever ended up stuck in full screen mode on Windows 11 and can’t figure out how to get back, you’re not alone. Sometimes apps just go fullscreen and refuse to let go, or maybe a shortcut triggers it without warning. It’s kinda like being trapped inside a bubble you can’t get out of, especially if the taskbar disappears and everything’s maximized. The good news is, there are some simple tricks to break free — whether it’s a game, a browser, or a media player. These methods usually work most of the time, but sometimes you might need to try a couple of options to get that annoying full screen off.
How to Exit Full Screen in Windows 11
The goal here is to switch out of maximum view and return to your regular desktop or windowed mode. These fixes are based on common behaviors seen across different apps, from browsers to media players and even some games. If one method doesn’t do the trick, just jump to the next.
Method 1: Hit the “Esc” Key
This is probably the simplest and most universal fix.Press the “Esc” key on your keyboard. A lot of apps recognize this as the universal “get out of full screen” button — especially browsers like Chrome or Edge, or media apps like Netflix. Sometimes it’s weird because it won’t work immediately, especially if your keyboard’s acting up or if the app overrides default shortcuts, but it’s worth a shot. On some setups, pressing Esc once is enough; other times, you might need to press it twice.
Method 2: Use the F11 Shortcut
This keyboard shortcut toggles full screen in most browsers and many apps. So, if pressing Esc doesn’t work, try pressing F11. Not sure why it works sometimes and not others, but on one machine it’ll toggle out, and on another, it might do nothing. It’s kind of strange, but worth trying. Remember, some laptops or keyboards might need you to press Fn + F11 if your function keys are set to special features — check your keyboard layout!
Method 3: Hover to Reveal Hidden Menu Bars
This one’s a bit more hit-or-miss, but on many apps, moving your mouse cursor to the top of the screen will make a hidden menu bar appear, including a button to exit full screen. It’s like Windows is hiding it to keep things tidy. Hover there for a few seconds or until a menu pops up. Sometimes, you’ll see a window control like a minimize or close button in the top right. Clicking that can only help if it’s an app that supports it. Be aware: this method often works in browsers, media players, or some software with custom window controls.
Method 4: Minimize Everything Using the Taskbar
Another quick fix is to right-click on the taskbar (the bar along the bottom of your screen) and select “Show Desktop”. Yep, that’s it. This minimizes all open windows, pulling you out of full screen. Sometimes it feels weird, but it’s kind of a reset. Has worked on some games and media apps that just refused to exit full screen otherwise. Note: if your taskbar is hidden or configured differently, you might need to adjust that first in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
Method 5: Check the App’s Menu Options
If you’re still stuck, peek at the top menus of the application in question. Many apps have an ‘Exit Full Screen’ option or a toggle in Settings. For example, in media players like VLC, go to Video > Fullscreen — uncheck it. In browsers, look for a menu icon (three dots or lines) and see if a full screen option exists there. Because of course, some programs are super stubborn and don’t respect shortcuts, so it’s worth digging into the app’s own menu.
And if none of these work, sometimes a quick restart of the app or even the whole PC can push things back into normal mode. Just don’t expect miracles every time, especially with some games or niche software.
Tips for Exiting Full Screen in Windows 11
- Make sure your keyboard is working properly—if the keys are sticky or dead, shortcuts won’t do much.
- Remember that different apps might have different behaviors or shortcuts. It’s weird but true.
- Familiarize yourself with the app-specific shortcuts (like in VLC or other media players).
- Keep Windows and your apps updated — sometimes full screen bugs are fixed in newer versions.
- Customize keyboard shortcuts in Windows or within app settings if you want easier access in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the “Esc” key doesn’t work?
Try F11 or hover to the top of the window — sometimes it’s just a glitch, and those methods do the trick. Also, check if your keyboard is responsive or if some software or driver is messing with shortcut recognition.
Can I exit full screen using just the mouse?
In many cases, hovering to the top of the window reveals a menu or you might see a close or restore button in the corner. But it’s not guaranteed — depends on the app.
Why can’t I see the taskbar in full screen?
That’s normal. Most apps hide the taskbar to give you the full immersive experience. Just exit full screen, and it should come back.
Is there a way to turn off full screen permanently?
Not really, unless the app has a setting to start in windowed mode instead of full screen. Otherwise, learning shortcuts is your best bet to avoid accidental fullscreening.
Will these methods work everywhere?
Most likely, but not always. Some apps have their custom controls, so if one approach doesn’t work, try another — or check the app’s preferences for a dedicated toggle.
Summary
- Press the “Esc” key
- Try F11 in browsers or apps
- Hover at the top to reveal menus
- Right-click the taskbar and choose “Show Desktop”
- Look through app menus for an exit option
Wrap-up
Getting out of full screen mode in Windows 11 isn’t always straightforward, especially if apps decide to be uncooperative. But with a few tried-and-true methods, most of the time it’s just a matter of pressing the right keys or clicking the right menus. Know your shortcuts, and don’t hesitate to try a combination of these tricks. Sometimes, a quick app restart or display toggle helps clear things up. Fingers crossed this helps someone get back to normal viewing faster than expected. Good luck and happy clicking!