How to Change Pen Button Functions in Windows 11

This article explains how to change what your pen shortcuts button does in Windows 11.

You can pair all devices with a Bluetooth connection with Windows 11, including keyboards, mice, phones, speakers, and more.

A pen device (Surface pen) also uses Bluetooth to connect to Windows 11. To pair your pen with Windows 11, your PC needs to have Bluetooth turned on and enabled.

Beginning with Windows 11 build 26120.3941, if your PC supports pen and inking, you can customize the shortcut button (typically located at the end of your pen) to open Click to Do with a single click, a double-click, or by pressing and holding the button.

Change what the pen button does

As mentioned, Microsoft added a feature to change what the pen button does in Windows 11.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Windows Settings app.

You can do that by clicking on the Start menu and selecting Settings. Or press the keyboard shortcut (Windows key + I) to launch the Settings app.

When the Settings app opens, click the Bluetooth & devices button on the left. Then, select the Pen & Windows Ink tile on the right to expand it.

On the Bluetooth & Pen & Windows Ink settings page, click on the “Choose what your shortcut button does” tile to expand it.

Then, configure what the shortcut button does:

• Single-click – Select what actions to perform on a single click.
• Double-click – Select what actions to perform on a double-click.
• Press and hold – Select what actions to perform when pressed and held.

Close the Settings app when finished.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

In summary, customizing the shortcut button on your pen device in Windows 11 can enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. Here are the key takeaways:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Ensure your pen device is paired with your PC via Bluetooth for optimal functionality.
• Customization Options: Microsoft allows changes to the pen button’s actions through the Settings application.
• Variety of Actions: You can set different functions for single-click, double-click, and press-and-hold actions.
• Easy Navigation: Access the relevant settings quickly through Windows Settings’ Bluetooth & devices section.
• Enhanced User Experience: Tailoring the pen button actions can improve efficiency in your tasks and applications.