If you’re missing the familiar look of Windows 10’s Start Menu after upgrading to Windows 11, don’t worry! You can adjust the settings to make your Windows 11 Start Menu look and feel more like Windows 10. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it.
How to Make Windows 11 Start Menu Like Windows 10
In this section, you’ll learn how to adjust your settings and install a third-party app to make the Windows 11 Start Menu resemble Windows 10’s interface.
Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar
First, right-click on the taskbar.
This will bring up a context menu with various options, including Taskbar settings.
Step 2: Select ‘Taskbar Settings’
Next, select ‘Taskbar settings’ from the context menu.
The Taskbar settings window will open, letting you customize various aspects of the taskbar.
Step 3: Change the Taskbar Alignment
In Taskbar settings, look for the ‘Taskbar alignment’ option and select ‘Left.’
Changing the alignment to the left will move the Start menu button to the left side, similar to Windows 10’s layout.
Step 4: Install a Third-Party App
Download and install a third-party app like ‘Open-Shell’ to further modify the Start Menu.
Open-Shell is free and can be downloaded from reputable sites like GitHub. It allows you to customize the Start Menu more extensively.
Step 5: Launch Open-Shell and Configure Settings
Open the Open-Shell app and configure the Start Menu settings to resemble Windows 10.
Open-Shell provides a variety of customization options, letting you choose the exact layout, style, and features you want.
After completing these steps, your Start Menu will look and feel much more like it did in Windows 10. You’ll find it easier to navigate, and it will have a familiar touch.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Start Menu Like Windows 10
- Backup your settings: Before making any changes, it’s always a good idea to back up your current settings in case you want to revert to the original layout.
- Explore other customization tools: Besides Open-Shell, there are other tools like StartIsBack and Start11 that offer similar customization features.
- Tweak transparency settings: You can also adjust the transparency settings in Windows 11 to get that Windows 10 feel.
- Use classic icons: Change your icons to the classic ones used in Windows 10 for a more cohesive look.
- Stay updated: Keep your third-party apps updated to ensure they work well with Windows 11’s updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is it to use third-party apps like Open-Shell?
Third-party apps like Open-Shell are generally safe if downloaded from reputable sources. Always check reviews and download from the official site or trusted platforms like GitHub.
Can I revert back to Windows 11’s default Start Menu after making these changes?
Yes, you can easily revert back to the default settings by uninstalling the third-party app and resetting the taskbar alignment to the center.
Will these changes affect my system performance?
Customizing the Start Menu should not noticeably affect system performance as long as you’re using lightweight third-party apps.
Is there a built-in way in Windows 11 to make the Start Menu like Windows 10?
While you can adjust the taskbar alignment, a built-in option that completely replicates the Windows 10 Start Menu is not available. Third-party apps are your best bet.
Can I get the live tiles back?
Live tiles are a feature that has largely been removed in Windows 11. However, some third-party apps may offer similar functionality.
Summary
- Right-click on the Taskbar.
- Select ‘Taskbar settings.’
- Change the Taskbar alignment to ‘Left.’
- Install a third-party app like Open-Shell.
- Launch Open-Shell and configure settings.
Conclusion
Transitioning to a new operating system can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you’re used to a certain layout and functionality. However, with a few tweaks and the help of third-party apps, you can make Windows 11’s Start Menu look like Windows 10. Remember, the key is to make your computer work for you, not against you. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll find yourself navigating through a familiar interface in no time.
For further reading, you might want to explore other customization options available for Windows 11, like tweaking the taskbar or changing icon styles. These small changes can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel using your computer. So go ahead and customize away! Your Start Menu will be looking like the good old Windows 10 version before you know it.
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.