- Windows 11 allows you to customize wallpapers per monitor and virtual desktop natively.
- There are third-party applications to expand the customization options in Windows 10 and in advanced settings.
- Using different backgrounds improves organization, productivity, and visual comfort in multitasking environments.
Customizing your work environment in Windows 11 has become essential, especially for those who use multiple monitors or take advantage of virtual desktops to better organize their projects. The growing demand for productivity and the need to maintain separate spaces for various activities have led many to look for ways to set different wallpapers on each monitor or virtual desktopHowever, although it may seem simple, the number of options and methods available can be confusing.
In this article, you'll find a complete, clear, step-by-step guide to help you make each of your screens—whether physical or virtual—look the way you want. In addition, we'll show you the advantages and potential disadvantages of this customization, as well as the alternatives offered by third-party applications for those looking for even more advanced options.
Why customize the wallpaper on each monitor or desktop?
The use of multiple monitors is becoming more common, especially in work environments or for those who want to clearly separate personal and professional activities. To be able to assign a different wallpaper for each monitor It is both an aesthetic and practical way to quickly identify the use of each screen, improving organization and making it easier to differentiate between tasks.
In the case of virtual desktops, which allow you to create different workspaces on the same computer, Assigning different backgrounds to each helps contextualize the content opened in each space, avoiding distractions and confusion. Furthermore, promote workflow and rationalize the use of resources.
Windows 11 Native Options: Steps to Set Different Backgrounds on Each Monitor
Windows 11 allows you to natively set a different wallpaper for each connected monitor, without the need for additional programs. The process, although simple once known, can go unnoticed if it has never been previously configured.
To achieve this, follow these basic steps:
- Right-click on any empty space on the desktop and select the option "Personalize" from the context menu.
- In the configuration window, go to "Background".
- Recent images will appear or the option to add new ones via “Browse photos” (You can choose a personal photo, one from the Internet, or one that Windows includes by default).
- When you see the image you want to set on a particular monitor, right click on it and select "Set for monitor 1","Set for monitor 2” or the corresponding number depending on the desired monitor.
- If you are not sure which monitor is which, in the display settings you can use the option "Identify" so that the system can number them momentarily.
- If you notice that the image does not fit the size well or black borders appear, in the wallpaper menu you can choose the option "Expand" to adapt to the chosen screen resolution.
- Once done, press "Save Changes" (In some cases the change may be immediate, but this action ensures that it is fixed.)
This method works for any combination of monitors connected to a Windows 11 PC, whether you're using two, three, or more displays. It is not limited to just portable with extended monitor, but to any multi-display configuration.
Customizing Backgrounds on Virtual Desktops: How to Do It in Windows 11
One of the improvements in Windows 11 compared to previous versions is the ability to also customize the backgrounds of each virtual desktop individually. This is especially useful if you are one of those who divide your day into several spaces (work, leisure, personal projects, etc.).
The process for doing this is very similar to that for physical monitors, but you must follow these steps for each virtual desktop:
- Access the “Task View” icon on the taskbar (two overlapping squares next to the Windows search box). If it's not visible, enable it from the taskbar settings.
- You'll see your open desktops and can add more from here. Click on the virtual desktop you want to customize or create a new one.
- Once located on the desired desktop, right click on the background of that desktop and select "Customize now".
- The background settings will open again. Choose the image you want and apply it, making sure it only affects the virtual desktop you're currently on.
Each time you repeat the process on another virtual desktop, that background will be associated only with that space.
This system makes it easier to differentiate between work areas, something that wasn't possible natively in Windows 10, where external applications were required to achieve this.
What's up with Windows 10? Limitations and workarounds
In Windows 10, the situation changes and there is no built-in option to set different backgrounds per virtual desktop. If you need that functionality, you will need to use apps specific third-party applications. Among the most popular and recommended for this purpose are Windows 10 Virtual Desktop Enhancer and especially SylphyHorn.
The process to use SylphyHorn is simple:
- Prepare a folder on your computer where you will save the backgrounds, naming each image with the number of the virtual desktop to which it will be assigned (for example “1.jpg”, “2.jpg”, etc.).
- Download and install SylphyHorn from the Microsoft Store.
- Once installed, look for its icon in the hidden icons next to the clock, right click and enter "Settings".
- In the side menu, go to background and activate the option to change the background of each desktop.
- Enter the path to the folder where your numbered backgrounds are located.
- The application will automatically change the background depending on the active virtual desktop.
SylphyHorn also allows you to disable notifications every time you change desktops, from the “General” section. Remember that the app will open automatically alongside Windows to keep your backgrounds properly configured.
Advanced Settings: Third-Party Programs to Customize Multiple Monitors
If you need even more customization options or have complex setups with multiple monitors, There are third-party applications such as DisplayFusion or Dual Monitor Tools that considerably expand the possibilities.
DisplayFusion It's one of the most comprehensive tools for managing multiple monitors. It allows you to customize not only the backgrounds, but also the position, resolution, and behavior of the windows, and even create backgrounds that automatically stretch or adapt to each screen.
Dual Monitor Tools, on the other hand, is free and greatly simplifies the process of assigning different images to each monitor. It even allows for backgrounds of different resolutions, for those with uneven screens, and other practical features like periodically changing the background for each monitor or setting a panoramic background that spans all screens.
These apps typically have simple interfaces and allow for a high level of customization, although it's essential to download them only from official or trusted sources to avoid security risks.
Common mistakes and how to fix them when setting up different backgrounds
The customization process is usually straightforward, but sometimes problems can arise. One of the main errors is that one of the screens displays an “unsupported resolution” message or appears black. This is usually due to two main causes:
- The additional monitor does not support the selected resolution.
- The cables or adapters do not transmit the signal correctly.
In these cases, check the monitor compatibility and make sure you are using the “Extend” mode in the Windows display settings, quickly accessing it with Windows + P and selecting the appropriate option. If the problem persists, consult the official website of your monitor manufacturer or check that the drivers are updated.
Also, if you see black borders on any image, adjust the display option in the wallpaper panel by choosing “Expand” to fit the actual size of your monitor.
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