How to Get Animated Wallpapers on Windows 11
Getting animated wallpapers on Windows 11 is a fun and easy way to make your desktop look amazing. You’ll need to use a third-party app, tweak a few settings, and choose your favorite animated backgrounds. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a lively, eye-catching desktop in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Get Animated Wallpapers on Windows 11
In this section, you’ll learn how to transform your static Windows 11 background into a dynamic, animated wallpaper. These steps will guide you through choosing and applying an animated wallpaper.
Step 1: Install a Third-Party Application
First, install a third-party application like Wallpaper Engine or Lively Wallpaper from the Microsoft Store.
These apps are essential because Windows 11 doesn’t natively support animated wallpapers. Wallpaper Engine is a popular choice, but Lively Wallpaper is a great free alternative.
Step 2: Open the Application
After installation, open the chosen application to start setting up your animated wallpaper.
Once inside the app, you’ll find various settings and options to customize your wallpaper. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the interface.
Step 3: Select an Animated Wallpaper
Use the app’s library or browse online sources to select the animated wallpaper you want.
Both Wallpaper Engine and Lively Wallpaper offer a wide range of animated wallpapers. You can even use videos or GIFs from your personal collection.
Step 4: Apply the Wallpaper
Follow the app’s instructions to apply the selected animated wallpaper to your desktop.
Typically, this involves clicking an "Apply" or "Set as Wallpaper" button. The new animated wallpaper should now appear on your desktop.
Step 5: Customize Settings
Adjust the settings within the application to optimize performance and appearance.
You can tweak various settings like animation speed, resolution, and more. This will help ensure the wallpaper runs smoothly without slowing down your computer.
After completing the steps, your desktop will come to life with an animated wallpaper. Not only will your screen look cooler, but it will also make your computer experience more enjoyable.
Tips for Getting Animated Wallpapers on Windows 11
- Performance Impact: Animated wallpapers can use significant system resources. Choose a wallpaper that balances aesthetics with performance.
- Customization: Experiment with different animations and settings to find what works best for you.
- Updates: Keep the wallpaper application updated to access new features and improvements.
- Community Creations: Explore user-created wallpapers within the application’s community for unique options.
- Dual Monitors: If you have a multi-monitor setup, check if the application supports animated wallpapers on all screens.
Frequently Asked Questions about Getting Animated Wallpapers on Windows 11
Can animated wallpapers slow down my computer?
Yes, animated wallpapers can use more CPU and GPU resources compared to static ones. Adjusting settings can help manage resource usage.
Are there free options for animated wallpapers?
Yes, Lively Wallpaper is a free app that allows you to set animated wallpapers on Windows 11.
Can I use my own videos as animated wallpapers?
Absolutely! Both Wallpaper Engine and Lively Wallpaper allow you to use personal videos or GIFs as wallpapers.
Do animated wallpapers affect battery life on laptops?
Yes, they can drain the battery faster because they use more resources. Consider using them only when plugged in.
How do I remove an animated wallpaper?
Simply open the wallpaper application and switch back to a static wallpaper or uninstall the app.
Summary
- Install a third-party application.
- Open the application.
- Select an animated wallpaper.
- Apply the wallpaper.
- Customize settings.
Conclusion
Animated wallpapers can make your Windows 11 setup look dynamic and unique. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily install and apply an animated wallpaper to your desktop. Whether you opt for Wallpaper Engine or Lively Wallpaper, the choice is yours!
Remember, while animated wallpapers add a fun and modern touch, they can also use up more system resources. Always keep performance in mind, especially on less powerful machines or laptops running on battery.
Dive into the world of animated wallpapers and make your Windows 11 experience truly your own. Happy customizing!
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.