If you’re looking to free up some screen real estate on your Windows 10 desktop, making the taskbar smaller is a quick and easy task. By tweaking a few settings, you can reduce the size of the taskbar icons, making the taskbar itself slimmer. This adjustment is handy if you prefer a minimalist look or need more space for your open windows. In just a few simple steps, you can customize your taskbar to better fit your needs.
How to Make Taskbar Smaller in Windows 10
The following steps will guide you through the process of reducing the size of your taskbar icons, which in turn will make your taskbar smaller. This adjustment involves changing a setting within the taskbar properties.
Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar
To begin, right-click anywhere on the empty space of the taskbar.
Right-clicking on the taskbar will open a context menu with several options. This is your gateway to accessing the taskbar settings, where you can make adjustments.
Step 2: Select Taskbar Settings
Step 2: From the context menu, select “Taskbar settings.”
Once you select this option, a new window will open, showing various options related to the taskbar. Here, you’ll find everything you need to customize the taskbar to your liking.
Step 3: Toggle the “Use Small Taskbar Buttons” Option
Step 3: In the Taskbar settings window, find and toggle the switch for “Use small taskbar buttons.”
This option is located under the “Taskbar” tab. By toggling this setting on, you will reduce the size of the icons on your taskbar, which in turn will make the taskbar itself smaller.
Step 4: Check the Taskbar Size
After making the change, observe your taskbar to see the size adjustment take effect.
Once you enable the small taskbar buttons option, your taskbar will immediately resize. The icons will be smaller, allowing for a more compact taskbar appearance.
Step 5: Close the Settings Window
Once you’re satisfied with the changes, close the settings window.
After confirming that the taskbar is now smaller, you can exit the settings window and enjoy your newly customized desktop space.
After completing these steps, your taskbar will feature smaller icons, which results in a more streamlined appearance. This can be particularly useful if you use a smaller screen or simply prefer a tidier desktop.
Tips for Making Taskbar Smaller in Windows 10
- Consider combining taskbar buttons to save even more space by enabling the “Combine taskbar buttons” option in the Taskbar settings.
- Keep your taskbar uncluttered by regularly removing unused or rarely accessed shortcuts.
- Experiment with auto-hiding the taskbar to maximize screen space when it’s not in use.
- Customize taskbar transparency to make it blend subtly with your desktop background.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to navigate your taskbar efficiently and reduce the need for excessive clicking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the taskbar icons even smaller?
Unfortunately, Windows 10 only allows one level of reduced size for taskbar icons. If you need them smaller, consider hiding the taskbar or using a third-party tool.
Will this change affect my system performance?
No, reducing the size of your taskbar icons won’t affect system performance. It’s purely a visual change.
Can I still see notifications with a smaller taskbar?
Yes, your notifications will still appear as usual. The change only affects icon size, not functionality.
How do I make the taskbar larger again?
To revert the change, simply toggle off the “Use small taskbar buttons” option in Taskbar settings.
Is this feature available in older versions of Windows?
The ability to use small taskbar buttons is specific to Windows 10. In older versions, taskbar customization options may differ.
Summary
- Right-click on the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Toggle “Use small taskbar buttons.”
- Check the taskbar size.
- Close the settings window.
Conclusion
Making the taskbar smaller in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that lets you customize your desktop environment to better suit your preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a cleaner look or simply want more room for your applications, reducing the size of your taskbar icons is a quick win. Remember, maximizing space on your screen can greatly enhance productivity, especially if you work on a laptop or a smaller monitor.
For those seeking to automate their workflows or delve deeper into Windows 10 customization, consider exploring other settings within the taskbar properties. Whether you choose to auto-hide the taskbar or adjust its transparency, each tweak can contribute to a more personalized and efficient user experience.
Ultimately, the taskbar is a vital component of the Windows interface, acting as your command center for accessing programs and notifications. By customizing its size and appearance, you can create a workspace that aligns with your ergonomic and aesthetic preferences. Don’t stop at just making the taskbar smaller—explore the other customization options Windows 10 offers to make your computing experience truly your own.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.