When using multiple displays in Windows 11, the taskbar can appear on all monitors by default. While this can be useful, many users prefer a cleaner setup by hiding the taskbar on the second monitor while keeping it visible on the primary screen.
Windows 11 provides built-in options to control taskbar behavior across multiple displays. In this guide, we will walk you through how to hide the taskbar on a second monitor.
How to Hide the Taskbar on a Second Monitor in Windows 11
Follow the steps below to customize taskbar visibility.
1. Disable Taskbar on All Displays
The easiest way is to turn off taskbar duplication.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Personalization → Taskbar.
- Click Taskbar behaviors.
- Uncheck:
- Show my taskbar on all displays
This will keep the taskbar only on your primary monitor.
2. Show Taskbar Only on Primary Monitor
Once disabled, the taskbar will automatically:
- Appear only on the main display
- Be hidden on all secondary monitors
To confirm:
- Go to Settings → System → Display.
- Ensure your main monitor is set as Primary display.
3. Use Auto-Hide for a Cleaner Look (Optional)
If you want the taskbar hidden on all screens unless needed:
- Go to Settings → Personalization → Taskbar.
- Click Taskbar behaviors.
- Enable:
- Automatically hide the taskbar
This hides it until you move your cursor to the bottom.
4. Customize Taskbar Buttons on Multiple Displays (Optional)
If you prefer partial visibility:
- Open Taskbar behaviors.
- Adjust:
- Show my taskbar on all displays (On/Off)
- When using multiple displays, show my taskbar apps on:
- All taskbars
- Main taskbar and taskbar where window is open
This gives more control over app icons.
5. Use Third-Party Tools (Advanced Option)
If you want more control (e.g., hide taskbar only on one specific monitor):
You can use tools like:
- DisplayFusion
- StartAllBack
These allow per-monitor taskbar customization, which Windows doesn’t fully support natively.
Important Notes
- Windows 11 does not allow hiding the taskbar on only one specific secondary monitor while keeping it on others (without third-party tools)
- Disabling “Show my taskbar on all displays” removes it from all secondary monitors
Conclusion
Hiding the taskbar on a second monitor in Windows 11 is simple using built-in settings. By disabling the option to show the taskbar on all displays, you can keep it visible only on your primary screen for a cleaner and less distracting workspace.
For advanced customization, third-party tools can provide additional flexibility, but for most users, the default settings are sufficient to achieve a streamlined multi-monitor setup.
