What is the shortcut key to open a folder in a new window?

To open a selected folder in a new window, the primary shortcut key is Ctrl + Enter. An alternative and often used shortcut is Ctrl + N.

Efficiently Opening Folders in New Windows

Managing files and folders is a core activity for most computer users. Opening folders in new windows can significantly streamline your workflow, allowing you to compare contents, move files, or manage multiple directories simultaneously without losing your current view. While various methods exist, keyboard shortcuts offer the fastest and most efficient way to achieve this.

The Primary Shortcut: Ctrl + Enter

The most direct and reliable method to open an already selected folder in its own new window is by using the Ctrl + Enter key combination. This is particularly useful when you've navigated through several levels and want to open a specific subfolder without closing the parent window.

Step-by-Step Guide for Ctrl + Enter:

Locate and Select: Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder containing the desired folder. Use your arrow keys or mouse to highlight and select the specific folder you wish to open.
Execute Shortcut: With the folder selected, press and hold the Ctrl key, then press the Enter key.
New Window: The selected folder will instantly open in a brand new File Explorer window, separate from your current view.

Alternative Shortcut: Ctrl + N

The Ctrl + N shortcut is widely known for creating "New" items in many applications. In File Explorer, its behavior can vary slightly depending on the context:

Selected Folder: If you have a specific folder highlighted, pressing Ctrl + N will typically open that selected folder in a new window, similar to Ctrl + Enter.
No Folder Selected (or on Desktop): If no folder is currently selected, or if you are on the desktop, pressing Ctrl + N will generally open a new File Explorer window to your default starting location, such as "Quick Access" or "This PC." This provides a quick way to launch a fresh File Explorer instance.

Other Useful Methods for Folder Management

Beyond keyboard shortcuts, there are other convenient ways to open folders in new windows, catering to different preferences:

Context Menu: Right-click on the desired folder, and from the context menu that appears, select the "Open in new window" option. This is a common and intuitive method for mouse users.
Middle-Click (Scroll Wheel): Many modern operating systems support opening items in a new window or tab by clicking the middle mouse button (scroll wheel). If your mouse has a clickable scroll wheel, simply click it on a folder to open it in a new File Explorer window.
Shift + Double-Click: Holding down the Shift key while double-clicking a folder can also trigger it to open in a new, separate window, combining a keyboard modifier with a mouse action.

Quick Reference: Folder Opening Shortcuts & Methods

Action	Shortcut Key(s)	Description
Open selected folder in new window	`Ctrl` + `Enter`	Most direct method after selecting a specific folder.
Open selected folder in new window	`Ctrl` + `N`	Alternative, also opens a new File Explorer instance to the selected folder.
Open new File Explorer window (general)	`Ctrl` + `N`	Opens a new File Explorer window to the default location.
Open folder in new window (mouse + key)	`Shift` + Double-click	Keyboard-mouse combination for a new window.
Open folder in new window (mouse click)	Middle-click (scroll wheel)	Quick one-click method on supported mice.
Open folder in new window (context menu)	Right-click -> "Open in new window"	Intuitive method via the right-click menu.

Mastering these shortcuts and methods will significantly enhance your file management efficiency on Windows, allowing for smoother navigation and organization. For a comprehensive list of Windows keyboard shortcuts, you can explore resources like the Microsoft Support page on keyboard shortcuts.