CNET editors’ review

Reviewed by: CNET Staff

The high expectations we had for this virtual desktop program were dashed almost from the beginning. Multi Screen Emulator for Windows places a drab toolbar over your system tray to navigate among eight desktops, though you’re only allowed to use two with the trial version. The program offers hot keys for navigating desktops as well, but in testing they didn’t always work the first time and had to be repeated before the desktop switched. Limited settings let you keep the program on top, hide it when it’s not in use, set transparency, and modify shortcuts. Even at its maximum capacity of eight desktops, Multi Screen Emulator for Windows is easily outclassed by other programs of its type, and this includes some freeware options. It’s easy to use but offers nothing that merits the significant price tag, and users will easily find desktop managers with more features and functionality that are much less expensive.

Publisher’s description

MSEW allows you to create and configure up to 10 virtual screens to simplify switching between different tasks. Switching of virtual screens is performed by using the MSEW panel or by hot keys. This useful tool allows you to distribute applications to different virtual screens and to manage switching among them quickly.

Version 2.0.1.2 includes user-definable hotkey, full customization for each virtual desktop, programs list menu, and updated multi-language user interface.