Screensets in Reaper are powerful tools that let you save and switch between customized layouts for different tasks. They streamline your workflow by adapting the interface to suit specific needs, whether you're tracking, editing, mixing, or mastering. Instead of manually adjusting windows and panels every time you switch tasks, screensets make it easy to recall your preferred layout instantly.
Reaper offers two types of screensets: Window Screensets and Track View Screensets. Window Screensets save the position and state of docked windows, toolbars, and panels. Track View Screensets focus on the arrangement of tracks in the timeline, including zoom levels, scroll positions, and visibility. You can use both together to create highly tailored setups for different phases of your project.
Setting up screensets is straightforward. Navigate to View > Project > Screensets or press Ctrl+E (Cmd+E on Mac) to open the Screensets Manager. From here, you can save, load, and manage your screensets. Assign hotkeys for quick switching, and Reaper lets you automate layout changes with actions, making screensets even more dynamic.
A screenset in Reaper, featuring a video window and the big clock.
For complex projects, screensets are indispensable. Use one for tracking with a minimal layout, another for detailed MIDI editing, and a third for mixing with plugin windows and meters arranged just right. The flexibility of screensets ensures you stay focused on the creative process rather than wrestling with the interface.
