If you’re nostalgic for the familiar look of Windows 10 but have upgraded to Windows 11, you’re in luck. With a few tweaks, you can make your new Windows 11 operating system look and feel like your old friend, Windows 10. It involves adjusting the Start Menu, Taskbar, and some settings to bring back that comforting vibe. Here’s how to do it.
How to Get Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10
This guide will walk you through the steps to transform the appearance of Windows 11, making it look and feel similar to Windows 10. By the end, your desktop environment will resemble what you’re accustomed to in Windows 10.
Step 1: Move the Start Menu to the Left
First, right-click on the Taskbar and select "Taskbar Settings."
By default, Windows 11 centers the Start Menu, but moving it to the left will make it feel more like Windows 10. In the Taskbar settings, find the "Taskbar behaviors" section. Here, you’ll see an option to change the alignment. Select "Left" from the dropdown menu and watch your Start Menu slide over to the left side.
Step 2: Change the Start Menu Layout
Open the Settings app and navigate to "Personalization," then "Start."
Windows 11’s Start Menu is quite different, but you can adjust it to be more like Windows 10. Turn off the options for "Show recently added apps," "Show most used apps," and "Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer." This will simplify the Start Menu layout.
Step 3: Use a Third-Party App for Classic Start Menu
Download and install an app like Open-Shell or StartIsBack.
These apps are specifically designed to bring back the classic Windows 10 Start Menu. Once installed, configure the settings to mimic the Windows 10 layout. These third-party apps are customizable and will revert the look and feel of your Start Menu to what you’re used to.
Step 4: Customize the Taskbar
Right-click the Taskbar and go to "Taskbar Settings."
To make the Taskbar look like Windows 10, you might want to disable features like "Widgets" and "Chat." These settings can be found directly in the Taskbar settings menu. Turning off these features will clean up your Taskbar and give it a more streamlined appearance.
Step 5: Adjust File Explorer
Open File Explorer, click on the three dots in the toolbar, and select "Options."
In the Folder Options dialog box, go to the "View" tab. Check the option for "Launch folder windows in a separate process" and uncheck "Show preview handlers in preview pane." This will give File Explorer a more classic look, similar to Windows 10.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 setup will have a much more familiar Windows 10 appearance. You can enjoy the new features of Windows 11 while maintaining a look you’re comfortable with.
Tips for Getting Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10
- Use Open-Shell or StartIsBack for the best Start Menu customization.
- Change the Taskbar alignment to the left for a more traditional feel.
- Disable Widgets and Chat to clean up your Taskbar.
- Adjust File Explorer settings to bring back the classic layout.
- Explore other third-party tools for more customization options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert these changes if I don’t like them?
Yes, all changes are reversible. Simply follow the same steps and re-enable original settings.
Will these steps affect the performance of my computer?
No, these adjustments are cosmetic and should not impact your computer’s performance.
Are third-party apps safe to use?
Yes, as long as you download them from reputable sources. Always check reviews and ratings.
Do I need to pay for third-party apps?
Some apps are free, while others might offer premium features for a fee. Open-Shell is free, but StartIsBack may have a small fee.
Can these changes be done on all versions of Windows 11?
Yes, these steps are applicable to all versions of Windows 11.
Summary
- Move the Start Menu to the Left.
- Change the Start Menu Layout.
- Use a Third-Party App for Classic Start Menu.
- Customize the Taskbar.
- Adjust File Explorer.
Conclusion
Changing the look of Windows 11 to resemble Windows 10 is pretty simple and can make your transition smoother if you’re more comfortable with the old layout. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the new features and improvements of Windows 11 with the familiar look of Windows 10.
Remember, the customization options don’t stop here. There are numerous third-party tools and tweaks you can explore to further personalize your Windows experience. Whether you’re a fan of the classic look or just want a mix of new and old, these steps provide a solid starting point.
So, go ahead and give your Windows 11 a touch of nostalgia. Happy customizing!
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.