When multitasking on a computer, knowing how to close windows instantly can improve productivity and efficiency. Instead of reaching for the mouse, using a close window shortcut allows you to close applications, browser tabs, or file explorers with just a quick key combination. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Linux, this guide will show you the best keyboard shortcut to close windows for faster navigation.
Why Use a Close Window Shortcut?
✅ Saves time – No need to manually click the close button.
✅ Boosts efficiency – Quickly shut down unnecessary apps.
✅ Works universally – Same shortcuts apply to browsers, file managers, and programs.
Close Window Shortcut for Windows, Mac, and Linux
| Operating System | Close Window Shortcut | Close Active Tab/Document |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Alt + F4 | Ctrl + W |
| macOS | Cmd + Q (Quit App) / Cmd + W (Close Window) | Cmd + W |
| Linux | Ctrl + Q (Quit App) / Alt + F4 (Close Window) | Ctrl + W |
🔹 Tip: Alt + F4 on Windows and Linux instantly closes the currently active window or application.
Close Browser Windows and Tabs with a Shortcut
If you’re working with multiple tabs in a browser, these shortcuts allow you to close them instantly:
| Browser | Close Window | Close Current Tab |
|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Ctrl + Shift + W | Ctrl + W |
| Mozilla Firefox | Ctrl + Shift + W | Ctrl + W |
| Microsoft Edge | Ctrl + Shift + W | Ctrl + W |
| Safari (Mac) | Cmd + Shift + W | Cmd + W |
| Brave Browser | Ctrl + Shift + W | Ctrl + W |
| Opera | Ctrl + Shift + W | Ctrl + W |
🔹 Tip: Ctrl + Shift + T reopens the last closed tab if you accidentally close it.
Advanced Close Window Shortcuts for Power Users
- Force Quit a Frozen App:
- Windows:
Ctrl + Shift + Esc(Opens Task Manager) - Mac:
Cmd + Option + Esc(Force Quit Menu) - Linux:
xkill(Run in Terminal)
- Windows:
- Close All Windows of an App (Mac Only):
Cmd + Option + W
- Close Terminal Window:
- Windows/Linux:
Ctrl + D - Mac:
Cmd + Q
- Windows/Linux:
Final Thoughts
Mastering the close window shortcut helps you navigate faster and boost productivity across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Whether you’re closing an application, a browser window, or a document, these keyboard shortcuts ensure you can work more efficiently. Try them today!
For a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts for Windows, you can also have a look here!
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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