Technology is always moving forward, and big names like HP, Dell, Asus, Lenovo, and Acer have introduced us to Chromebooks. These gadgets, powered by Google’s Chrome OS, are often nicknamed “school Chromebooks” because they’re a hit in schools. They’re super easy to use and make everything smooth. Chromebooks have some cool features to boost how much you enjoy and get done with them. One such feature is the “Full Screen” mode, letting you soak up everything on your screen without any bits of the operating system’s toolbar or other apps getting in the way.
Whether you’re showing off a presentation, enjoying videos, or just exploring online, full-screen mode makes it all more engaging. But sometimes, you need to snap back to the normal screen look. This guide is here to walk you through the ways to exit out of full screen on a Chromebook, giving you the reins of your screen view.
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Ways to leave full screen mode on a Chromebook
Chromebooks are awesome for making our digital stuff easier, with their quick processing and simple layout. Stuck in full-screen mode on your Chromebook and wondering how to get back? No stress. Here are the steps to get your screen back to normal.
Linked issue: YouTube Video Lagging on Chrome When Full Screen (Fix)
1. Using the keyboard shortcut
The quickest way to flip between full screen and the regular view on a Chromebook is by using a keyboard shortcut.
- In full screen mode, find the “Fullscreen” key on your keyboard. It’s the one with a rectangle and arrows pointing out. It’s usually in the spot where you’d find the F4 key on other keyboards.
- Press the “Fullscreen” key, and just like that, you’re back to seeing your regular screen.
Note: If your Chromebook has the usual keyboard without a “Fullscreen” icon, the F4 key will do the trick.
2. Using the Touchpad
Love using your touchpad? Here’s how to exit full screen with a simple gesture:
- Slide your cursor to the top edge of your screen.
- A tiny bar pops up with icons like tabs, extensions, and the Chrome menu’s three dots.
- Tap on the square icon (for toggling the screen) or the “X” to leave full screen.
3. Through the Chrome menu
Prefer menus? Here’s a way out of full screen through the Chrome menu:
- Right-click anywhere (or, if you’re using the touchpad, hold the “Alt” key and tap) to bring up the context menu in full screen mode.
- Choose “Exit full screen” from the options that pop up.
4. Using the “Esc” key or “F11” equivalent shortcut
Another easy out is the Esc key or an “F11” style shortcut, familiar on many computers.
- While in full screen on your Chromebook, find the “Esc” key, usually at the top-left of your keyboard.
- Pressing Esc should take you out of full screen in a snap.
- If “Esc” doesn’t work, or if you’re more used to “F11” from other systems, Chromebooks have a workaround. Hold the “Search” key (with the magnifying glass icon) and then hit the “Hyphen (-)” key. This combo acts like “F11” and toggles full screen on or off.
Related concern: Video Stops Playing When Switching Tabs in Chrome
FAQs about exiting full screen mode on Chromebook
1. Why won’t my Chromebook exit full screen mode?
Hit a bump with your Chromebook not leaving full screen? Here’s what you can try:
- Check for updates: Your Chrome OS might be waiting on updates that can fix bugs. Hit the clock at the bottom-right, tap the “Settings” gear, head to “About Chrome OS”, and look for updates. Update and reboot your Chromebook if needed.
- Restart your Chromebook: The classic turn-it-off-and-back-on move can solve a lot of problems. Press and hold the power button to shut it down, then turn it on again.
2. Does full screen mode drain the battery faster?
Being in full screen mode itself doesn’t really drain your battery faster. But, what you do in full screen, like watching videos, might. Keep an eye on your battery use, and try lowering the screen brightness or closing tabs you don’t need to help save power.
3. What’s the difference between “Full screen” and “Immersive mode”?
Yes, there’s a little difference between them:
- Full Screen Mode: This hides the whole browser interface, including tabs, URLs, and bookmarks. It gives you a clean view of just the content you’re looking at.
- Immersive Mode: Mostly seen in certain apps or websites, this mode hides only the top part of the browser like tabs and URL. But, if you hover at the top, it’ll show those bits temporarily.
Related resource: How to Go Full Screen on Windows 11/10 Apps or Games
A quick wrap-up
In summary, Chromebook’s full-screen mode is a great feature for when you want an all-in experience, whether you’re working, playing, or learning. With the tips in this guide, moving between screen views should be a breeze, and you won’t feel stuck in full-screen mode on your Chromebook. Keep in mind, though, that the specific functions and shortcuts might differ slightly depending on your Chromebook model and any updates it has. Staying updated on the latest tricks and features can help you get the most out of your device.
