How to Change Magnifier Reading Keys in Windows 11

This article explains how to change or modify the Magnifier Reading Keys (shortcuts) on Windows 11.

Like a magnifying glass, the Magnifier app in Windows produces a magnified image of an object on your screen. This helps you see and read better. This is useful for people with poor vision or difficulties seeing objects on their computer screen.

The modifier key starts all shortcuts for Magnifier reading. The default modifier key for reading shortcuts is Ctrl + Alt.

You can change this in the Magnifier settings if you want to.

Magnifier Reading Commands

Change the Magnifier Reading Keys Using the Settings App

Users can use the Settings app to change the magnifier reading keys. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Open Settings

Open the Windows Settings app. Click on the Start menu and select Settings. Or press the keyboard shortcut (Windows key + I) to launch the Settings app.

Step 2: Go to Accessibility

When the Settings app opens, click the Accessibility button on the left.

Step 3: Select Magnifier

On the right, select the Magnifier tile to expand it.

Step 4: Choose Your New Modifier Key

On the Magnifier settings pane, under “Reading shortcut,” choose a modifier key drop-down menu. Select the key option you want.

Step 5: Close Settings

Close the Settings app when you are finished.

Change Magnifier Shortcut Keys Using the Registry

Another way to change the Magnifier shortcut keys is to use the Windows Registry Editor. Remember to back up your registry before making any changes or create a System Restore point as a precaution.

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

⚠️ Admin privileges required

Open the Windows Registry and navigate to this folder key path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\ScreenMagnifier

Step 2: Create a New DWORD Value

Right-click ScreenMagnifier. Select New. Then select DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name the new DWORD ModifierKey.

Step 3: Set the Value

Double-click ModifierKey. Change the value using the options below.

• Enter 1 to use the default Ctrl + Alt.
• Enter 2 to use Caps Lock.
• Enter 4 to use Insert.
• Enter 6 to use Caps Lock or Insert.

Step 4: Reboot Your Computer

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Reference

Microsoft.com

Summary

Modifying the Magnifier reading keys in Windows 11 can improve the experience for people with vision difficulties. Here are the key points:

• The Magnifier app is a helpful tool for improving screen readability.
• You can easily change the reading shortcuts through the Settings app or the Windows Registry.
• The default modifier key for Magnifier shortcuts is Ctrl + Alt. You can change it to options like Caps Lock or Insert.
• Always back up your registry or create a System Restore point before changing the Registry Editor.
• Adapting the Magnifier settings can lead to a more personalized experience for users with vision difficulties.

Frequently Asked Questions