If you’re looking to make the taskbar smaller in Windows 11, it’s a pretty straightforward process. You’ll need to tweak some settings using the Registry Editor. This involves a few simple steps: opening the Registry Editor, navigating to the right folder, creating a new value, and setting it to the desired size. Once done, a quick restart will give you a more compact taskbar.
How to Make Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to shrink your Windows 11 taskbar. This involves using the Registry Editor, so proceed with caution and make sure to follow each step carefully.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
First, press Win + R to open the Run dialog, then type “regedit” and press Enter.
Opening the Registry Editor is your gateway to customizing various aspects of your Windows 11 experience, including the taskbar size. This tool allows you to make changes to system settings that aren’t available in the standard settings menu.
Step 2: Navigate to the Taskbar Key
In the Registry Editor, go to this path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced.
This folder contains advanced settings for Windows Explorer. By tweaking these settings, you can modify how your taskbar looks and behaves.
Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value
Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it “TaskbarSi”.
This new value will let you set the size of your taskbar. Naming it correctly is crucial for the system to recognize the change you’re implementing.
Step 4: Modify the TaskbarSi Value
Double-click on TaskbarSi, set its value to 0, 1, or 2 (0 = small, 1 = medium, 2 = large), and click OK.
These values correspond to the different sizes you can set for your taskbar. For a smaller taskbar, you’ll want to set this value to 0.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Finally, restart your computer to apply the changes.
A system restart ensures that your changes take effect. When your computer boots back up, you should see your taskbar has been resized.
After you complete these steps, your Windows 11 taskbar will appear smaller, giving your desktop a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Tips for Making Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11
- Always back up your registry before making any changes. This is crucial to avoid any unintended consequences.
- If you’re not comfortable using the Registry Editor, consider using third-party software. There are tools available that can simplify this process.
- Be cautious when navigating the Registry Editor. Making incorrect changes can affect your system’s stability.
- Take note of the original settings before you modify them. This way, you can easily revert back if needed.
- Explore other customization options while you’re at it. Windows 11 offers a host of features that can enhance your user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Registry Editor?
The Registry Editor is a tool built into Windows that allows you to view and make changes to system settings and configurations.
Is it safe to use the Registry Editor?
Yes, it is safe if you follow instructions carefully. However, making incorrect changes can harm your system, so proceed with caution.
Can I revert the taskbar size back to the original setting?
Yes, you can. Simply follow the same steps and change the TaskbarSi value back to 1 for the default medium size.
What do I do if my taskbar doesn’t resize?
Ensure that you have followed each step correctly and try restarting your computer again. If it still doesn’t work, double-check the registry path and value.
Are there any risks in modifying the registry?
There is always a risk when modifying the registry, as incorrect changes can impact system stability. Always back up your registry before making changes.
Summary
- Open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced.
- Create a new DWORD value named “TaskbarSi”.
- Set TaskbarSi to 0, 1, or 2.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Making the taskbar smaller in Windows 11 can give your desktop a cleaner, more organized look. While this involves delving into the Registry Editor, it’s entirely doable if you follow the steps outlined above. Remember to back up your registry before making any changes and proceed with caution.
By understanding how to make taskbar smaller windows 11, you can further customize your Windows experience to suit your personal preferences. If you’re not comfortable with the Registry Editor, consider looking for third-party tools that offer similar functionality. Either way, a smaller taskbar can contribute to a more efficient and visually pleasing workspace. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy your newly streamlined desktop!
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.