Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
Feeling nostalgic about the familiar layout and design of Windows 10 while using Windows 11? You’re in luck! By tweaking a few settings, you can make Windows 11 resemble Windows 10. Here’s the gist: you’ll need to adjust the taskbar, change the start menu, and disable specific visual effects to achieve a look that’s closer to the classic Windows 10 style. With just a handful of settings changes, you can enjoy a more familiar interface in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
In this guide, you’ll find all the steps you need to transform your Windows 11 interface back into the comfortable setup of Windows 10. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Adjust the Taskbar
Move your taskbar icons to the left side of the screen.
To do this, right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings. In the Taskbar behaviors section, choose the Left option for the Taskbar alignment. This will align your taskbar icons to the left, mimicking the classic Windows 10 arrangement.
Step 2: Change the Start Menu
Replace the Windows 11 Start menu with a Windows 10-like Start menu.
You’ll need a third-party application like Open-Shell to modify the Start menu. After downloading and installing Open-Shell, you can customize settings to bring back a traditional Start menu that resembles Windows 10’s style, giving you quick access to your old favorites.
Step 3: Modify Taskbar Transparency
Disable taskbar transparency to simulate the Windows 10 taskbar look.
Navigate to Settings, select Personalization, then click Colors. From here, turn off the Transparency effects option. This will make your taskbar opaque, similar to how it appeared in Windows 10.
Step 4: Disable Rounded Corners
Change settings to eliminate rounded corners on windows.
While there’s no built-in setting for this, third-party apps like Win11DisableOrRestoreRoundedCorners can help. By using these apps, you can get rid of the rounded edges, bringing back the sharper corners of Windows 10.
Step 5: Adjust Visual Effects
Reduce animations and effects for a Windows 10 feel.
Go to Settings, select System, and then choose About. Click on Advanced system settings, go to the Advanced tab, and under Performance, click Settings. Select Adjust for best performance to turn off unnecessary animations and make the interface feel more like Windows 10.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 should closely resemble Windows 10 in terms of appearance and functionality. Enjoy the nostalgia of a classic design while benefiting from Windows 11’s advancements.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
- Test different third-party apps to find the one that works best for changing the Start menu.
- Explore various themes in the Windows Store for additional customization.
- Back up your current settings before making major changes, just in case you want to revert.
- Keep your system updated to ensure compatibility with third-party applications.
- Experiment with different settings to find what best suits your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to Windows 11’s default look after making changes?
Yes, you can easily revert back to the default settings by undoing each change or using system restore points to bring your system back to its original state.
Will using third-party apps affect my system’s security?
While many third-party apps are safe, it’s crucial to download them from reputable sources to avoid security risks.
Are there any performance implications when making these changes?
Most changes should not impact performance negatively, but turning off specific visual effects might even improve system performance.
Is there a cost associated with these changes?
Most steps are free, but some third-party apps might offer advanced features at a cost.
Do these changes affect system updates?
The changes mainly involve visual elements and should not interfere with system updates.
Summary
- Align taskbar icons to the left.
- Use a third-party app to change the Start menu.
- Disable taskbar transparency.
- Use an app to remove rounded corners.
- Adjust visual effects for a Windows 10 feel.
Conclusion
Transforming your Windows 11 interface to look like Windows 10 is a straightforward process that mostly involves tweaking settings and using a few third-party applications. This change allows you to enjoy the nostalgic design of Windows 10 while taking advantage of the new features and improvements that Windows 11 offers. Remember to experiment with different settings and apps to find the best combination for your needs.
Whether you’re a creature of habit who loves the familiar look or someone who just prefers the previous design layout, these steps will help you make Windows 11 feel more like home. Always remember to back up your settings and keep your operating system updated for a smooth and secure experience. If you find these steps helpful, or if you discover new tricks along the way, consider sharing your knowledge with others in forums or on social media. Happy customizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.