If you’re excited about the sleek new look of Windows 11 but not ready to upgrade, I’ve got good news for you. You can tweak your Windows 10 to mimic Windows 11’s aesthetic. This guide will walk you through the steps, including installing new themes, customizing icons, and modifying the taskbar.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Make Windows 10 Look Like Windows 11
This section will cover how to transform your Windows 10 interface to closely resemble Windows 11. Each step involves a specific action to achieve the look, and together they’ll make your desktop feel like it’s running the latest OS.
Step 1: Install a Windows 11 Theme Pack
First, download and install a Windows 11 theme pack for Windows 10.
There are several theme packs available online. These packs include wallpapers, sounds, and color schemes that closely resemble those of Windows 11. Once downloaded, install the theme by double-clicking the file.
Step 2: Customize Icons
Next, replace your current icons with Windows 11-style icons.
You can find icon packs online that match Windows 11’s design. Use a tool like IconChanger to apply these new icons to your system folders and shortcuts. This will give your desktop a more cohesive look.
Step 3: Modify the Taskbar
Change the taskbar settings to center your icons, similar to Windows 11.
Right-click on the taskbar, go to “Taskbar settings,” and select “Center align icons.” If this option isn’t available, you can use third-party software like TaskbarX to achieve the same effect.
Step 4: Add Rounded Corners
Windows 11 is known for its rounded corners. You can replicate this on Windows 10.
Use a tool like RoundedTB to add rounded corners to your windows and taskbar. This small tweak can make a big difference in achieving the Windows 11 look.
Step 5: Install Fluent Design Apps
Finally, install apps that use Microsoft’s Fluent Design system.
Look for applications and utilities that embrace the Fluent Design principles. These apps will blend seamlessly with your new Windows 11-themed desktop.
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 will look very similar to Windows 11. You’ll have a modern, polished interface without needing to upgrade your OS.
Tips for Making Windows 10 Look Like Windows 11
- Use high-quality themes from reputable sources to avoid malware.
- Regularly back up your system before making significant changes.
- Explore various third-party tools to enhance customization.
- Keep your system updated to ensure compatibility with customization tools.
- Experiment with different settings to find what looks best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to the original Windows 10 look?
Yes, you can uninstall the theme pack and other customization tools to revert to the default Windows 10 interface.
Will these changes affect my system performance?
Minimal changes like themes and icon packs usually don’t, but third-party tools can have varying impacts.
Are these customizations safe?
As long as you download from reputable sources, they should be safe. Always scan files for malware.
Do I need to be tech-savvy to make these changes?
Not really. Most steps are straightforward, but some might require a bit of patience and following instructions closely.
Can I customize just some parts and not the whole theme?
Absolutely! You can pick and choose which elements to change based on your preference.
Summary of Steps
- Install a Windows 11 theme pack.
- Customize icons.
- Modify the taskbar.
- Add rounded corners.
- Install Fluent Design apps.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined above, you can make Windows 10 look like Windows 11 without actually upgrading your operating system. The process involves a mix of downloading themes, customizing icons, and using third-party tools to achieve the desired look. Whether you’re doing this for aesthetic reasons or just to try something new, transforming your interface can make your computer feel fresh and modern.
Remember, while these tweaks can make your Windows 10 experience more visually appealing, they won’t provide the new features or performance improvements that come with an actual Windows 11 upgrade. However, if you’re simply interested in the look and feel, this guide should have you covered.
For further reading, consider exploring additional customization tools and themes that can add even more uniqueness to your desktop. And remember, always ensure that any software you download is from a reliable source to keep your system safe. 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.