Split Screen On Mac: How To Use Two Apps Side By Side
WhilemacOS Ventura(13.2) made using two apps side-by-side a somewhat smoother process, it’s not the first version of the operating system to utilize split screen functionality. It’s been available since 2015’sEl Capitan.
Split screen has become a fairly common way to use apps as it provides a clear view of two (sometimes more) apps simultaneously, making jumping between software faster and easier. Whether you’re keeping separate notes open while working on a project, editing photos to immediately use in a video, or just looking up a map for reference while reading a travel guide, it’s a feature that has a multitude of uses.
It’s also a simpler (and cheaper) solution to using adual monitor setup. It won’t provide a full-screen view of both apps, but it doesn’t require buying, connecting, and finding room for a secondary display. With a larger external monitor, you can effectively have two nearly full-sized apps side-by-side.
Using split screen in Catalina (10.15) and Newer
Setting up split screen mode in macOS Catalina and above is pretty straightforward.
Once your app windows are in place, you may use them both in split-screen. Though keep in mind you may need to make some interface adjustments if you want to see more or less of various app elements, as an app’s layout may not account for the reduced window size — causing some interfaces to appear cluttered or crowded.
Split screen for El Capitan (10.11) through Mojave (10.14)
Using the split screen feature in macOS El Capitan, Sierra, High Sierra, and Mojave is similar to 10.15 and above but also slightly different.
When you’re finished using split screen, change the app windows back by clicking the Full-Screen button to go into full screen. Or you can manually resize each window by moving the cursor to one of the edges until the dual-arrow icon appears, then clicking and dragging to expand it.
What to do if split screen isn’t working
Using split screen in macOS is pretty intuitive once you know where to find the option. That said, it’s possible that the necessary option may not be turned on for your Mac, which means you won’t be able to use it until you go into the menus and change the proper settings.
If you’re using macOS Ventura (13.2) or later:
For macOS Monterey (12.6) and older:
Once the option has been turned on, you can start using split screen immediately without restarting your Mac.
