How to Enable and Use Split Screen in Edge or Chrome Browser

Multitasking has become a normal part of everyday browsing. Whether you’re comparing two webpages, researching while writing, watching a video alongside notes, or managing work dashboards, constantly switching tabs can slow you down. That’s where Split Screen browsing comes in.

If you use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome on Windows 11, you’ll be glad to know that both browsers offer practical ways to view two websites side by side. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explain what split screen is, how it works in Edge and Chrome, and how to use it effectively for daily productivity.

What Is Split Screen Browsing?

Split screen allows you to view two webpages at the same time in a single browser window or across the screen. Instead of switching between tabs, you can:

• Compare content side by side
• Drag and drop information between pages
• Watch videos while working
• Read documentation while following steps

Edge offers a native split-screen feature, while Chrome relies on window snapping or extensions.

Enable and Use Split Screen in Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge has a built-in split screen feature that works seamlessly.

1. Enable Split Screen Feature in Edge

In most recent versions of Edge, split screen is enabled by default. If you don’t see it, check this first.

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Select Appearance from the left panel.
5. Scroll down and make sure Split screen is enabled.

Once enabled, Edge will show split screen options when opening links.

2. Use Split Screen in Edge (Built-In Method)

This is the easiest way to use split screen in Edge.

1. Open a webpage in Edge.
2. Right-click a link on the page.
3. Select Open link in split window.
4. Edge will automatically divide the window into two panes.
5. Each pane can:
   • Scroll independently
   • Open different links
   • Be resized by dragging the divider

This keeps both pages inside a single Edge window.

3. Use Split Screen Button in Edge Toolbar

Edge also provides a dedicated split screen button.

1. Open any webpage in Edge.
2. Click the Split screen icon in the toolbar (if visible).
3. Choose a tab or open a new webpage for the second pane.
4. Adjust the divider to resize each side.

This method is ideal when working with multiple existing tabs.

Enable and Use Split Screen in Google Chrome

Google Chrome does not have a native split screen feature like Edge, but you can still achieve the same result using Windows features or extensions.

1. Use Windows Snap Layouts with Chrome (Recommended)

Windows 11 makes split screen easy using Snap Layouts.

1. Open Google Chrome and load a webpage.
2. Hover over the maximize button in the top-right corner.
3. Select a split layout (left or right).
4. Open a second Chrome window or another app.
5. Snap it into the remaining space.

This creates a clean, system-level split screen.

2. Use Keyboard Shortcuts for Split Screen (Chrome & Edge)

Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to split the screen.

1. Open two browser windows (Chrome or Edge).
2. Select the first window and press:
   • Windows + Left Arrow
3. Select the second window and press:
   • Windows + Right Arrow

Both browsers now sit side by side perfectly.

3. Use Chrome Extensions for Split Screen (Optional)

If you prefer tab-based split views inside Chrome:

1. Open the Chrome Web Store.
2. Search for split screen or tab split extensions.
3. Install a trusted extension.
4. Use the extension to divide tabs into multiple panes.

Extensions are useful but can consume extra memory.

Best Use Cases for Split Screen Browsing

Split screen is especially helpful when:

• Writing content and researching simultaneously
• Comparing prices or specifications
• Watching tutorials while following steps
• Monitoring dashboards or analytics
• Studying or taking online classes

It significantly reduces tab switching and improves focus.

How to Exit Split Screen Mode

• In Edge: Close one pane or click Exit split screen
• In Windows: Drag a window away or restore it normally
• Using shortcuts: Press Windows + Up Arrow to maximize

Everything returns to normal instantly.

Wrapping Up

Split screen browsing is one of the simplest yet most powerful productivity features available in modern browsers. With Microsoft Edge, you get a polished built-in split screen experience, while Google Chrome pairs perfectly with Windows 11 Snap Layouts for the same result.

If you regularly compare content, multitask between pages, or follow guides while working, using split screen in Edge or Chrome can dramatically improve your workflow and reduce unnecessary tab switching.