Tired of the monotonous look of your Windows 11 taskbar? Changing its color is a quick and easy way to personalize your desktop experience. In just a few steps, you can inject a splash of vibrancy or a touch of your favorite hue into your taskbar, making your computer feel more like your own.
How to Change Taskbar Color in Windows 11
This guide will show you how to change the color of your taskbar in Windows 11. By the end, you’ll be able to customize your desktop to better suit your style.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 PC.
To do this, you can either click on the Start menu and select the Settings gear icon or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard. Either method will get you to the same place.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Next, go to the Personalization section within the Settings app.
Once you’re in the Settings app, look for the option called “Personalization” in the left-hand menu. Click on it to proceed.
Step 3: Select Colors
Now, click on the “Colors” option under Personalization.
In this section, you’ll find various options to change the color scheme of your Windows interface. This is where the magic happens.
Step 4: Enable Accent Color on Taskbar
Scroll down and toggle the switch for “Show accent color on Start and taskbar.”
Turning this option on will apply the accent color you choose to your taskbar, giving it a fresh new look.
Step 5: Choose Your Color
Finally, pick your desired color from the color grid or custom color options.
Browse through the available colors or hit the “Custom color” button to select a hue that matches your personal taste. Your taskbar will instantly update with your chosen color.
After you complete these steps, your Windows 11 taskbar will sport the new color you selected. This simple change can make your desktop feel more personalized and visually appealing.
Tips for Changing Taskbar Color in Windows 11
- Experiment with Different Colors: Don’t be afraid to try different colors. The beauty of this feature is its flexibility, so play around until you find the perfect shade.
- Use Custom Colors: If you’re not satisfied with the preset options, use the custom color feature to get an exact match for your preferences.
- Consider Accessibility: Choose a color that contrasts well with the icons on your taskbar to ensure everything remains easy to see.
- Pair with Themes: Coordinate your taskbar color with your desktop theme for a cohesive look. Matching the taskbar color with your wallpaper can be especially striking.
- Reset if Needed: If you ever want to revert to the default, just turn off the “Show accent color on Start and taskbar” toggle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the taskbar color without changing other system colors?
No, changing the taskbar color will also affect the Start menu and other accent areas.
What if the taskbar color I want isn’t available?
You can use the custom color option to create the exact hue you want.
Will changing the taskbar color affect my system performance?
No, changing the taskbar color has no impact on system performance.
Can I schedule different taskbar colors for different times?
Windows 11 does not currently support scheduling different taskbar colors.
How do I revert to the default taskbar color?
Simply turn off the “Show accent color on Start and taskbar” toggle in the Colors settings.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization.
- Select Colors.
- Enable Accent Color on Taskbar.
- Choose Your Color.
Conclusion
Changing the taskbar color in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to personalize your computer. With just a few clicks, you can transform your desktop’s appearance and make it more enjoyable to use daily. Whether you want a subtle tweak or a bold statement, customizing your taskbar color lets you express your personal style.
It’s a small change, but it can make a big difference. So go ahead, dive into your settings, and let your creativity shine through. If you have any questions or run into any issues, don’t hesitate to explore Microsoft’s support resources or join online communities for additional help.
Now that you know how to change the taskbar color, why stop there? Explore other personalization options in Windows 11 to make your entire desktop setup uniquely yours.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.