Vertical tabs in Microsoft Edge offer a modern way to manage your browsing experience by moving tabs from the top of the screen to the left side. This layout is especially useful if you tend to keep many tabs open, as it makes them easier to view and organize.
However, not everyone prefers this layout. Some users find horizontal tabs more familiar and convenient. The good news is that Microsoft Edge lets you easily switch between vertical and horizontal tabs anytime.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to enable or disable vertical tabs in Edge browser step by step.
How to Disable or Enable Vertical Tabs in Edge Browser
Before we begin, it’s important to know that Microsoft Edge includes a built-in toggle for vertical tabs. You can switch between tab layouts instantly without needing any extensions or advanced settings. However, just make sure you are using the latest version of Microsoft Edge browser.
1. Enable Vertical Tabs in Microsoft Edge
If you want to switch to vertical tabs, Edge provides a quick toggle that lets you enable it in just a click. This is useful when you want better tab visibility and organization.
1. Open the Microsoft Edge browser on your computer.
2. Look at the top-left corner of the browser window. Click the drop-down icon.
3. Click on the Turn on vertical tabs icon.
Your tabs will instantly move to the left side of the screen. You can resize the vertical tab panel by dragging its edge.
2. Disable Vertical Tabs
If you prefer the traditional tab layout, you can easily switch back to horizontal tabs using the same toggle.
1. Open Microsoft Edge if it’s not already running.
2. Look at the top-left corner where the vertical tabs panel is visible.
3. Click on the Turn off vertical tabs icon.
The tabs will move back to the top of the browser window. Continue browsing with the standard tab layout.
Note: You can also enable and disable vertical tabs in the Edge browser by right-clicking on the tab area and selecting the option to turn vertical tabs on or off.
How to Enable or Disable Vertical Tabs from Settings
If you don’t see the toggle button, you can manage vertical tabs through Edge settings.
1. Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
2. Select Settings from the menu.
3. Navigate to the Appearance section and select Tabs option.
4. Enable or disable vertical tabs based on your preference.
Apply the changes and return to your browsing window. This is the traditional method to manage settings in the Microsoft Edge browser.
How to Pin or Collapse the Vertical Tabs Pane
When using vertical tabs, you can customize how the tab panel behaves to save space or improve visibility.
1. Enable vertical tabs using the steps above.
2. Click on the Pin pane option to keep the tab list expanded.
3. If you unpin it, the panel will collapse and only show icons.
Hover over the panel to temporarily expand it. Adjust it based on your workflow and screen space.
Final Thoughts
Vertical tabs in Microsoft Edge can significantly improve your browsing experience, especially if you work with multiple tabs at once. At the same time, the option to switch back ensures that you’re not locked into one layout.
Whether you prefer a modern vertical layout or the traditional horizontal tabs, Edge gives you the flexibility to choose what works best for you.
