How to Change Windows Terminal Launch Size
You can change the Windows Terminal launch size by adjusting its settings JSON file to specify your preferred default dimensions.
Windows Terminal is your go-to app for Command Prompt, PowerShell, and WSL, offering a modern and unified command-line experience. Setting a custom launch size means you start your session exactly how you like it, every time.
By default, Windows Terminal often launches with a standard size that might not fit your workflow. You can easily set it to open at a specific width and height, for instance, 1000 pixels wide by 800 pixels tall, ensuring your workspace is ready from the get-go.
Edit the settings.json file by holding Alt and clicking Settings, then add or modify initialCols and initialRows properties within profiles.defaults or a specific profile. Save the file and restart Windows Terminal to apply the new launch size.
What happens when you are done?
Once you save your settings, the Windows Terminal will automatically open at your chosen width and height. This provides a personalized experience every time you start your session, whether you are using Command Prompt, PowerShell, or WSL.
Understanding the settings.json file
Windows Terminal stores all your settings, including window size, in a file called settings.json.
Warning: Always create a backup of your settings.json file before making manual changes. You can find it by holding the Alt key while clicking the Settings menu in the Terminal.
Global vs. Profile-specific settings
You can set a default size for all windows or specific sizes for individual profiles like PowerShell or Command Prompt. Use the following table to understand the difference:
| Setting Type | Scope | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Global (Startup) | App-wide | Consistent size for every terminal window. |
| Profile-specific | Individual shell | Different sizes for specific tasks like coding vs. server management. |
How to change the Windows Terminal launch size
You can easily change the Windows Terminal launch size right from its settings menu.
- Open the Windows Terminal app.
open the Terminal app in Windows - Click the down arrow button on the top bar and select Settings.
Windows Terminal Settings button updated - To edit the JSON file directly, hold the Alt key and click Settings. This opens the configuration file in your default text editor.
- Locate the
profiles.defaultssection to change settings for all profiles, or find a specific profile ID to change only one. - Add or modify the
initialColsandinitialRowsproperties as shown above. - Save the file and restart the Terminal to see your changes.
Note: These changes do not require administrative privileges.
Summary
You can easily customize your Windows Terminal launch size using the settings.json file or the Startup menu to fit your screen perfectly.
How do I reset Windows Terminal to default size?
To reset your size, open the Settings menu, go to the Startup tab, and clear the values in the Launch size fields. Alternatively, delete the initialCols and initialRows lines from your settings.json file. This reverts the terminal to its original default dimensions of 120 columns by 30 rows.
Why is my Windows Terminal ignoring my size settings?
If your Windows Terminal is ignoring your size settings, it’s likely due to a syntax error in the settings.json file or conflicting global and profile settings.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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