Windows 11 can show time with AM and PM instead of a 24-hour clock. You only need to change the regional time format; changing the time zone is unnecessary.
Set Windows 11 to a 12-hour clock
- Open Settings.
- Select Time & language.
- Open Language & region.
- Open the regional-format settings.
- Select Change formats when that option appears.
- Choose a Short time format that uses AM and PM.
- Choose a matching Long time format if you want consistent formatting throughout Windows.
Short time and long time are separate
The taskbar and other parts of Windows can use different regional time formats. Changing both prevents one interface from continuing to display 24-hour time.
Do not change the time zone
The time zone determines the actual local time. The 12-hour and 24-hour options only change how that time is displayed.
Applications can have independent settings
If a particular program continues using 24-hour time, check its own preferences. Not every application follows the Windows regional format.
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.
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