Why Does Windows Switch to Tablet Mode?
Windows 10 includes a feature called Continuum, which is designed to seamlessly transition the user interface between a traditional desktop layout and a touch-friendly “Tablet Mode.” This is highly useful on 2-in-1 convertible laptops (like a Microsoft Surface). When you detach the keyboard or fold the screen all the way back, Windows senses the hardware change and instantly maximizes all windows, hides the desktop icons, and spaces out the taskbar buttons for fat fingers.
However, if your laptop has a faulty hinge sensor, or if you simply prefer using the standard desktop interface even when you are using the touchscreen, this automatic switching is incredibly disruptive. It completely changes your workflow without asking. You can force Windows to remain in standard desktop mode permanently.
How to Stop Automatic Tablet Mode Switching
You can configure the exact behavior of Tablet Mode in the Windows Settings app.
- Click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon (or press
Windows Key + I). - Click on System.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on Tablet (in older versions of Windows 10, this is called “Tablet mode”).
- Look for the dropdown menu under the heading When I sign in. Change this to Never use tablet mode.
- Look for the dropdown menu under the heading When I use this device as a tablet. Change this to Don’t switch to tablet mode (or “Don’t ask me and don’t switch”).
Once you change these two dropdowns, Windows 10 will completely ignore any hardware changes. Whether you detach the keyboard, fold the screen, or trigger a faulty sensor, your familiar desktop environment will remain perfectly intact and unchanged.