The command key on a Windows keyboard is the Windows key, marked with the Microsoft Windows logo. It serves as the direct equivalent to the Mac's Command key for operating system shortcuts, such as opening the Start menu or locking your computer.
What is the command key on a Windows keyboard?
If you are switching from a Mac to a Windows PC, the key you are looking for is the Windows key. It is a modifier key that handles system-level commands, just as the Command key does on macOS. Pressing it alone opens the Start menu, and combining it with other keys triggers shortcuts for tasks like searching, opening settings, or managing windows. You can also pair it with the function keys on a keyboard to quickly control brightness or media playback. Understanding this key is essential for anyone who wants to know how keyboard keys explained in the context of cross-platform use.
Where is the Windows key located?
The Windows key is physically located on the bottom row of most Windows keyboards. It sits between the left Ctrl and Alt keys. The key is easily identified by the Microsoft Windows logo, a four-pane window icon, printed on its surface. Some keyboards may have a second Windows key on the right side of the space bar, but the primary one is on the left.
Mac Command key vs Windows key: key differences
While the Windows key replaces the Command key for OS-level shortcuts, the Ctrl key on Windows handles many text-editing shortcuts that the Command key manages on a Mac. For example, on a Mac, you press Cmd+C to copy text; on Windows, you press Ctrl+C. The Windows key, however, is used for system actions like opening the Start menu (Win), locking the PC (Win+L), or opening Settings (Win+I). This division means that when you want to use command key on Logitech keyboard functions, you will press the Windows key for system shortcuts and the Ctrl key for text editing.
Essential Windows key shortcuts for Mac switchers
The table below maps common Mac actions to their Windows key equivalents, helping you transition quickly.
| Mac action | Windows shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Open Spotlight / Search | Win + Q | Opens Windows Search |
| Open Launchpad / App list | Win (alone) | Opens the Start menu |
| Open System Preferences | Win + I | Opens the Settings app |
| Open Finder / File browser | Win + E | Opens File Explorer |
| Lock screen | Win + L | Locks the device |
| Open Mission Control / Task View | Win + Tab | Opens Task View |
| Create new desktop space | Win + Ctrl + D | Creates a new virtual desktop |
| Show desktop | Win + D | Toggles between showing the desktop and restoring windows |
| Snap window left/right | Win + Left/Right Arrow | Snaps the window to the left or right half of the screen |
| Launch Copilot | Win + C | Opens Microsoft Copilot (customizable in Settings) |
How to use the Windows key for window management
Window management is one of the most powerful uses of the Windows key. Here are step-by-step instructions for common tasks.
Snapping Windows
- Select the window you want to snap.
- Press Win + Left Arrow to snap it to the left half of the screen.
- Press Win + Right Arrow to snap it to the right half.
- Press Win + Up Arrow to maximize the window.
- Press Win + Down Arrow to minimize the window or restore it to its previous size.
Minimizing and showing the desktop
- To minimize all open windows at once, press Win + M.
- To toggle between the desktop and your open windows, press Win + D.
- To restore minimized windows, press Win + Shift + M.
Using virtual desktops
- Press Win + Tab to open Task View, which shows all your virtual desktops.
- To create a new virtual desktop, press Win + Ctrl + D.
- To switch between virtual desktops, press Win + Ctrl + Left Arrow or Right Arrow.
- To close the current virtual desktop, press Win + Ctrl + F4.
For the wider topic, see keyboard keys explained.
