Monarch simplifies multi monitor control for power users

Windows users managing three or more displays have long struggled with the operating system's limitations, which fail to support specific-monitor targeting in complex setups. For years, the only reliable way to disable a specific screen was to navigate into Windows Display Settings to disconnect it manually. However, a new community-developed tool called Monarch has emerged to bridge this gap by using the Windows DisplayConfig APIs to detach and reattach outputs programmatically.

Brought to our attention by VideoCardz, Monarch was first shared on Reddit. This free tool enables users to push specific monitors into standby mode simply by stopping the video signal through software. This eliminates the need to reach for physical power buttons or fumble with cables. Beyond simple toggling, the app lets users save custom display layouts as profiles, which they can restore instantly. To prevent common configuration mishaps, the developer integrated a safety rollback system with a confirmation timer and a hard block that prevents users from accidentally turning off their last active display.

Although it was released just a few days ago, it has already received some updates, fixing bugs and introducing global shortcut hotkeys, the latter allowing for instantaneous profile switching or detaching specific displays without opening the app interface. This is a game-changer for multi-monitor gaming setups, where players often want to black out secondary screens to reduce distractions or system overhead with just a couple of key presses.

The developer has also addressed requests for HDR controls, noting that while HDR toggling is technically possible and on the roadmap, it presents unique challenges due to how Windows applies HDR colour profiles. For now, Monarch provides a lightweight and efficient solution for multi-monitor management that Microsoft has yet to resolve.

KitGuru says: Have you ever found any issues managing multi-monitor setups on Windows? Are you planning to try Monarch to see if it makes managing multi-monitor setups easier?

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