How to Move a Fullscreen Game to Another Monitor？

For users with a multi-monitor setup, playing games across different screens can be a huge advantage in terms of productivity and immersion. However, a common issue arises when a fullscreen game automatically launches on the wrong monitor. This can be frustrating, especially when there is no obvious option to move it. Fortunately, there are several ways to move a fullscreen game to another monitor without having to close or reinstall anything. This article outlines the most practical and effective methods to help you make that switch with minimal effort.

Use Windowed or Borderless Mode First

The most reliable and straightforward way to move a game from one monitor to another is by launching it in windowed or borderless windowed mode. Most modern games support these display options.

To do this, open your game and go to the in-game settings menu. Locate the display or video settings. Change the display mode from fullscreen to either windowed or borderless windowed. Once you have done that, you can simply click and drag the game window to the monitor of your choice. After the game is on the desired screen, you can go back to the settings and switch it back to fullscreen if preferred.

This method avoids many of the compatibility issues that come with exclusive fullscreen mode and is generally the best solution for most users.

Use a Keyboard Shortcut

If the game is running in borderless or windowed mode and you want to quickly move it without dragging, there is a helpful Windows keyboard shortcut.

Press the Windows key together with Shift and then tap the left or right arrow key. This shortcut will move the active window to the next monitor in that direction. It works best in windowed or borderless mode and may not function correctly with exclusive fullscreen applications.

Change Your Primary Display Before Launching the Game

Some games always launch on the primary monitor by default. If your game does not offer a display mode option or always opens on the wrong screen, you can change the primary monitor setting in Windows before launching the game.

To do this, right-click on your desktop and select Display Settings. You will see all your connected monitors displayed as numbered boxes. Click on the monitor you want to use as your main screen, then scroll down and check the box labeled “Make this my main display.” Windows will now treat this monitor as the primary one, and most games will open on it by default.

This is especially useful for users who regularly switch between monitors or play different types of games on separate screens.

Use Graphics Card Control Panel Settings

If you are using a dedicated graphics card, such as one from NVIDIA or AMD, you may have additional options in the GPU’s control panel software to set monitor preferences.

For NVIDIA users, open the NVIDIA Control Panel and go to Display, then select Set Up Multiple Displays. You can enable or disable screens, arrange their order, and set a preferred screen for games. AMD users can find similar options in the AMD Radeon Software under the Display tab.

While not all games will obey these settings, many newer titles do, and it provides another level of control if the other methods do not work.

Use Third-Party Multi-Monitor Tools

There are several advanced tools available that are designed specifically for managing multiple monitors. Software such as DisplayFusion, Actual Multiple Monitors, or Ultramon can give you more control over where games and applications open.

These tools offer features like forcing specific windows to open on specific monitors, saving monitor layouts, and assigning hotkeys for faster window movement. These can be useful for users with complex setups or professional streamers who regularly switch between displays.

Common Issues and Solutions

If the game locks your mouse cursor to one screen or does not respond to shortcut keys, try pressing Alt and Enter together to toggle between fullscreen and windowed modes. This can sometimes reset the game’s display behavior.

Older games or some emulated titles may not support multi-monitor setups properly. In these cases, you may need to edit configuration files or use custom launch options. Also, make sure your graphics drivers and Windows operating system are fully updated for optimal compatibility with modern monitors.

Conclusion

Moving a fullscreen game to another monitor can seem tricky at first, but once you understand the tools and options available, the process becomes much easier. The most effective method is to switch to windowed or borderless mode, move the game to the desired screen, and then return to fullscreen if needed. If that is not possible, changing your system's primary display or using keyboard shortcuts are also reliable alternatives.

With a bit of setup and adjustment, you can enjoy your gaming experience on the screen that suits you best. Whether you are gaming competitively, working with multiple applications, or just trying to organize your desktop, knowing how to manage your displays effectively is a useful skill.

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