If you’re feeling a little nostalgic for Windows 10 while using Windows 11, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you can tweak some settings to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10. By changing the Start Menu, Taskbar, and other visual elements, you can recreate the look and feel of Windows 10. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, so you can enjoy the familiarity of Windows 10 on your shiny new Windows 11 system.
How to Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
In this section, we’ll dive into specific steps that will help you modify your Windows 11 interface to mirror that of Windows 10. These steps will guide you through changes in settings and customization that involve the Start Menu, Taskbar, and some visual themes.
Step 1: Revert the Start Menu
In this first step, you’ll move the Start Menu to the left side of the taskbar, similar to Windows 10.
Windows 11 has the Start Menu centered by default. Right-click on the Taskbar, select “Taskbar settings”, then scroll down and click on “Taskbar behaviors”. Here, you can choose “Left” alignment for the Start Menu to position it like it was in Windows 10.
Step 2: Customize Taskbar Icons
Next, adjust your Taskbar icons to be more like those in Windows 10.
In the Taskbar settings, minimize the number of icons by toggling off features you don’t use, like Widgets or Chat. This declutters the Taskbar, giving it a more Windows 10 feel.
Step 3: Change Icons
For a more authentic Windows 10 look, update your desktop icons.
Navigate to “Themes” in the Personalization settings, then select “Desktop icon settings”. Here, you can change the default icons to ones that resemble those from Windows 10. You might need to download Windows 10 icon packs from trusted sources online.
Step 4: Install a Windows 10-style Theme
To fully revert the look, install a Windows 10-like theme on your computer.
Head to the Microsoft Store and browse for themes that mimic Windows 10’s aesthetics. These themes often bring back familiar colors and window styles.
Step 5: Adjust File Explorer
Modify the File Explorer to resemble the Windows 10 version.
In File Explorer, enable the ribbon by clicking on the “View” tab and selecting “Options”. Then, click the “View” tab and uncheck “Launch folder windows in a separate process”. This brings back the classic look and feel of File Explorer.
Once you complete these steps, your Windows 11 computer will look and feel much like Windows 10. While not every feature can be changed, these adjustments should cover most of what users miss from the previous version.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10
- Consider using third-party apps like Open-Shell to further customize your Start Menu.
- Backup your current settings before making changes in case you want to revert.
- Customize your color scheme to match Windows 10’s classic style through “Personalization” settings.
- Regularly check for updates to ensure compatibility with your tweaks.
- Explore different icon packs to find the most authentic Windows 10 look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely change Windows 11 back to Windows 10?
While you can make many visual changes, Windows 11’s core functionalities and features will remain. It’s not possible to fully revert to Windows 10 without reinstalling the older operating system.
Are these changes permanent?
The changes can be easily reversed through the settings menu, or by restoring your backup if you’ve made one.
Will these changes affect system performance?
Typically, these visual changes should not affect performance. However, using third-party apps might have a minor impact, so use them sparingly.
Can I change other features to make it more like Windows 10?
Yes, explore additional settings like sounds, screen savers, and font styles to further capture the Windows 10 feel.
Do I need any technical skills for this transformation?
Basic navigation of Windows settings is sufficient. The instructions provided are beginner-friendly.
Summary of Steps
- Revert the Start Menu
- Customize Taskbar Icons
- Change Icons
- Install a Windows 10-style Theme
- Adjust File Explorer
Conclusion
Transforming Windows 11 to look like Windows 10 is a nostalgic journey. It’s like redecorating your room to remind you of the good old days. By following these steps, you’re not just personalizing your desktop; you’re creating a space that feels familiar and comfortable.
Whether it’s changing the Start Menu location or adjusting icons, each tweak helps bring back that comforting Windows 10 vibe. Of course, technology keeps moving forward, but sometimes a touch of nostalgia makes the new seem less intimidating. If you crave more customization, remember there are third-party apps that can help enhance the look even further.
Exploring how to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about finding your comfort zone in the ever-evolving tech landscape. So go ahead, give your Windows 11 a makeover and enjoy the best of both worlds. And who knows? Maybe in the process, you’ll discover some new features that make you fall in love with Windows 11 again.
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.