What Is Fullscreen Mode?
Fullscreen mode is a feature that allows an app, video, or browser window to take over the entire screen—hiding toolbars, tabs, menus, and the taskbar/dock to provide an immersive experience. It’s useful for watching videos, playing games, or presenting content, but getting out of it isn’t always intuitive.
That’s why knowing how to exit out of fullscreen mode across devices is essential for a smooth user experience.
How to Exit Out of Fullscreen on Windows
If you're using a Windows PC, the methods vary slightly depending on the application, but here are the most common solutions:
1. Press the Esc Key
For apps like video players, games, or presentation software, simply pressing the Esc (Escape) key will often exit fullscreen mode.
2. Use F11
In browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, pressing the F11 key toggles fullscreen on and off.
3. Move Your Mouse to the Top
Some applications reveal a hidden toolbar when you move your mouse to the top of the screen. You can then click the minimize or exit fullscreen icon.
4. Use Alt + Tab
If you're stuck and can’t see any toolbar, use Alt + Tab to switch to another application. From there, you can force the fullscreen app to minimize or close.
How to Exit Out of Fullscreen on macOS
macOS handles fullscreen mode a bit differently, especially since it has a dedicated fullscreen button.
1. Press Control + Command + F
This keyboard shortcut toggles fullscreen mode in most Mac applications, including Safari, Finder, and Chrome.
2. Hover and Click the Green Button
Move your cursor to the top-left corner of the screen to reveal the three window buttons. Click the green button to exit fullscreen mode.
3. Use Esc for Video Players
If you're watching a YouTube video or using a media player like VLC, pressing Esc usually exits fullscreen mode instantly.
How to Exit Out of Fullscreen on Chromebooks
Chromebooks also have unique keys and shortcuts.
1. Use the Fullscreen Key
Look for the fullscreen key on your Chromebook (usually a rectangle with two arrows pointing out). Press it once to exit fullscreen.
2. Press F4 or Esc
In browser apps, pressing F4 or Esc can help you get back to windowed mode.
How to Exit Out of Fullscreen in Specific Applications
YouTube or Streaming Services
- Press Esc
- Click the fullscreen icon (bottom-right corner of the video player)
Microsoft PowerPoint (During Presentations)
- Press Esc
- Or use the right-click context menu and select “End Show”
Games and Emulators
- Use Alt + Enter or F11
- Some games require going into settings and toggling “Windowed Mode”
How to Exit Fullscreen on Mobile Devices
While phones and tablets don’t have the same fullscreen features, apps like YouTube, Netflix, and browsers use fullscreen for better viewing.
Android and iOS
- Tap the screen to reveal video controls
- Tap the fullscreen icon (usually bottom-right of the video)
- Rotate the phone back to portrait mode if auto-rotate is enabled
Troubleshooting Tips
Sometimes, fullscreen mode doesn’t respond as expected. Here’s what to try:
1. Unresponsive App? Force Quit It
If you can’t exit fullscreen and the app is frozen, use:
- Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and end the task.
- macOS: Press Command + Option + Esc to force quit the app.
2. Keyboard Not Working?
Try connecting an external keyboard or using on-screen keyboard options.
3. Application Glitch?
Restart the app or reboot your device.
Why Knowing How to Exit Fullscreen Matters
While fullscreen improves focus and experience, being stuck in it can disrupt productivity. Knowing how to exit out of fullscreen quickly helps you:
- Switch between apps efficiently
- Troubleshoot stuck interfaces
- Maintain better control over your workspace
Whether you're presenting, watching, or working, mastering this basic skill enhances your overall digital experience.
Conclusion
Fullscreen mode is a valuable feature across devices, but exiting it shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. From Esc and F11 on Windows, Command + Control + F on Mac, to using the fullscreen toggle on Chromebooks and mobile apps, you now know how to exit out of fullscreen confidently—no matter where you’re stuck.
The next time your screen takes over, just remember: there’s always a way back to your windowed world.
Read more on- https://keploy.io/blog/community/how-to-exit-full-screen-on-mac