In the arsenal of Windows keyboard shortcuts, the Alt+Tab combination stands out as an indispensable tool for enhancing productivity. A seamless method to navigate between active apps and Windows, this key combination has been a staple for multitaskers over various iterations of the Windows operating system. Windows 10 elevates this feature by introducing a grid display, which showcases all the currently open programs and apps, giving users a clear snapshot of their ongoing activities. Not only does it simplify the switching process, but it also encapsulates Windows 10’s ethos of user-centric design.
A notable aspect of this feature is the default transparency of the Alt+Tab grid. Set at an approximate opacity of 85%; it allows users a faint glimpse of the active window in the backdrop. While many find this level of transparency to be optimal, others might prefer a more translucent or opaque grid, catering to their unique preferences. If you’ve ever pondered about tweaking this grid’s transparency, then this risewindows guide is tailor-made for you. Dive in to learn how you can personalize the Alt-Tab grid’s background transparency on Windows 10, ensuring a user experience truly aligned with your tastes.
How to Adjust the Transparency Level of Alt+Tab Grid Box in Windows 10?
To change the transparency level of the Alt+Tab grid in Windows 10, perform these steps:-
Step 1. Firstly, open Registry Editor.
Step 2. Now, go the following path on the left side of Registry Editor:-
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
Step 3. Then, right-click on the Explorer key and select New > Key.
Step 4. After that, name the newly created key MultitaskingView.
Step 5. Next, right-click on the MultitaskingView folder and choose New > Key.
Step 6. Now, set the name to AltTabViewHost.
Step 7. Then, right-click on the AltTabViewHost key and pick New >DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Step 9. After that, name the newly created REG_DWORD to Grid_backgroundPercent.
Step 10. Here, double-click on the Grid_backgroundPercent REG_DWORD, select base as Decimal, and set its “Value data” to the following:-
- 0= Full transparency.
- 20= Semi-transparent.
- 100= Full opaque.
Tips: If you don’t prefer to use the above value, you can use any value between 0 to 100 according to your needs.
Step 11. Then, click the OK button.
Step 12. Lastly, reboot your PC to apply the changes.
Tips: Besides the Alt+Tab keyboard shortcut, you can also use the Ctrl+Alt+Tab keyboard combination to bring up the grid that will stay there even after you release the keys. Then, you can quickly move between opened windows by using the arrow keys and hitting Enter to select any program or app.
Suppose you want to try out Windows 98’s Alt+Tab grid; press and hold the left Alt key. While holding on to it, press the right Alt key and release it. Magic! Now, press the Tab key to switch between windows. This way, you can bring up the old-school Alt+Tab grid.
Conclusion
The Windows 10 Alt+Tab grid offers an efficient way to toggle between open applications, enhancing multitasking capabilities. However, the grid’s default transparency might not cater to everyone’s aesthetic or functional preferences. By diving into the Windows Registry, users can easily adjust the grid’s background transparency, tailoring it to their specific needs. Whether you want complete opacity, full transparency, or something in between, this guide empowers you to customize your Alt+Tab experience on Windows 10. Remember, it’s these small tweaks that can truly transform and optimize your user experience, making daily operations smoother and more intuitive.
