So, you’ve upgraded to Windows 11, but you miss the classic look and feel of the Windows 10 taskbar? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Getting that familiar look back is easier than you think. By tweaking a few settings and using some third-party tools, you can make the Windows 11 taskbar look just like it did in Windows 10. Let’s dive into the details.
Making Your Windows 11 Taskbar Look Like Windows 10
In this part, we’ll walk you through the steps to transform your Windows 11 taskbar into a spitting image of the one in Windows 10. We’ll cover everything you need to do, from tweaking settings to using third-party tools.
Step 1: Open Taskbar Settings
Navigate to the taskbar settings by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting "Taskbar settings."
In this step, you’ll gain access to all the customization options for the taskbar. Right-clicking on the taskbar brings up a menu where you can find "Taskbar settings" easily. It’s the gateway to configuring how your taskbar looks and behaves.
Step 2: Align Taskbar to the Left
Find the option that says "Taskbar behaviors" and then select "Left" under "Taskbar alignment."
This alignment will make your icons and Start menu appear on the left side, just like in Windows 10. It’s a small change, but it makes a significant difference in recreating that classic look.
Step 3: Use a Third-Party Tool
Download and install "StartIsBack" or "StartAllBack" to restore the Windows 10 taskbar features.
These third-party tools are lifesavers when it comes to customizing the Windows 11 taskbar. They provide features that Microsoft left out, allowing you to bring back the full Windows 10 taskbar experience, including the classic Start menu.
Step 4: Customize Taskbar Icons
In the third-party tool, navigate to the taskbar settings and select the Windows 10 taskbar style.
Once you’ve installed the tool, you’ll find a bunch of options to modify the taskbar. You can change the icon sizes, spacing, and overall style to match the Windows 10 look perfectly.
Step 5: Adjust Taskbar Transparency
Open the third-party tool and navigate to the transparency settings to adjust the taskbar opacity.
Customizing the transparency can add a polished finish to your taskbar. Whether you like it fully opaque or slightly see-through, these settings will help you nail the look you’re going for.
After completing these steps, your taskbar should look like the Windows 10 one you know and love. You’ll get the classic layout and functionality back, making your Windows 11 experience more familiar.
Tips for Making Your Windows 11 Taskbar Look Like Windows 10
- Consider using "StartIsBack" or "StartAllBack" for a comprehensive set of customization options.
- If you don’t want to use third-party tools, you can still achieve a similar look using native settings to an extent.
- Regularly update third-party tools to ensure they remain compatible with Windows 11 updates.
- Experiment with the transparency settings to find the look that suits you best.
- Backup your current settings before making any changes, so you can revert if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert to the default Windows 11 taskbar if I don’t like the new look?
Yes, you can easily revert by uninstalling any third-party tools and resetting taskbar settings.
Is it safe to use third-party tools like StartIsBack?
Yes, but make sure to download from reputable sources to avoid malware.
Will these changes affect my system performance?
Generally, these changes won’t impact performance, but always monitor your system after making changes.
Can I customize individual icons on the taskbar?
Yes, third-party tools often allow you to change individual icon appearances and placements.
Do I need to pay for these third-party tools?
Some tools may have free versions with limited features, while others could require a purchase for full functionality.
Summary
- Open Taskbar Settings
- Align Taskbar to the Left
- Use a Third-Party Tool
- Customize Taskbar Icons
- Adjust Taskbar Transparency
Conclusion
Transforming your Windows 11 taskbar to look like Windows 10 is a breeze if you know the right steps and tools to use. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the sleekness of Windows 11 combined with the familiarity of Windows 10.
While third-party tools like StartIsBack and StartAllBack can provide a more authentic Windows 10 look, even the built-in settings offer a good degree of customization. Remember, these tweaks are reversible, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find the perfect look for your taskbar.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might be struggling with the same issue. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to make the most out of your Windows experience!
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.