In Windows 10 is it possible to arrange virtual desktops in a grid with multiple rows and columns as I can on linux?

Title says it all. I usually have a 3x4 array of virtual desktops on linux. Can I do the same on Windows 10.

I don't believe that you can with the UI. Was wondering if it were possible by editing the registry?

Solution 1:

As per @demented hedgehog answer, VirtualDesktopGridSwitcher will work out for Windows 10. I managed to get the last version (2.4.0.0 at the time of writing) to work on Windows 10 (Version 10.0.17134 Build 17134).

The application is not very configurable for now, so does not allow customized key bindings for desktop switch, move windows, etc. But alternative alias key bindings can be achieved using AutoHotKey with a minimal little script of aliases. I paste my key-binding alias script at the end, which is based on VIM motion (j,k,h,l) to switch desktops/move windows.

The application default icons are based on a 3x3 grid layout, so if you require a different layout you would probably prefer to change those default icon set with something from here: https://virtuawin.sourceforge.io/?page_id=48 (I use a 2x2 grid, so icons are available) or you could provide your own icons. Just need to place the icons into the application Icons folder and name it from 1.ico to n.ico.

Regarding that, it is usable and works! It could be improved but it solves the problem of desktop layout and desktop switching/window moving using strictly the keyboard.

; AutoHotKey script

; Uncomment the next line if you don't want this script appearing in your system tray
;#NoTrayIcon

; Read this for more details and keys:
; https://www.autohotkey.com/docs/Hotkeys.htm

; Switch desktop aliases (using Ctrl-Alt + VIM motion key)

^!l::^!Right
^!h::^!Left
^!j::^!Down
^!k::^!Up

; Move window aliases (using AltGr + key)

<^>!l::^!+Right
<^>!h::^!+Left
<^>!j::^!+Down
<^>!k::^!+Up
<^>!Right::^!+Right
<^>!Left::^!+Left
<^>!Down::^!+Down
<^>!Up::^!+Up

Solution 2:

Here's one way.

Windows 10 Desktop Switcher using a grid layout Switch desktops using arrow keys with configurable modifier keys

https://sourceforge.net/projects/virtual-desktop-grid-switcher/

Solution 3:

Windows 10 now has a similar option called Task View, which is both a task switcher and a virtual desktop manager.

You may use it to bring a window to the foreground, but also to view the available virtual desktops, bring one forward, add a new one or remove.

The virtual desktops are arranged at the top with their screen-image, and you may click to choose:

More information can be found in the articles:

• How to use Task View features on Windows 10
• Get to the task with Windows 10’s Task View and Aero Snap
• How to Turn Off Task View Timeline in Windows 10