Windows 11 brings a sleek new design with its Start Menu, but if you miss the familiar layout of Windows 10, you’re in luck. In just a few steps, you can tweak the Start Menu to bring back the classic look you loved. By changing the Start Menu’s position and layout, you’ll get back that old familiar feeling. Let’s dive in and transform your Windows 11 experience to feel like home again.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Make Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10
The steps below will guide you through changing your Start Menu’s layout and position. This will make it resemble the Windows 10 version that many users find comfortable and intuitive.
Step 1: Right-click on the Taskbar
In Step 1, simply right-click anywhere on the Taskbar.
When you right-click the Taskbar, a menu pops up with several options. This is the starting point for customizing the appearance and behavior of your Taskbar and Start Menu.
Step 2: Select “Taskbar Settings”
Click on “Taskbar Settings” from the menu that appears.
This option opens up a settings window. Here, you can modify various aspects of your Taskbar, including its behavior, position, and what icons are displayed.
Step 3: Change Taskbar Alignment to “Left”
Within Taskbar Settings, find the option for “Taskbar alignment” and change it to “Left.”
This change moves your Start Menu to the left side of the screen, similar to where it was positioned in Windows 10. Many users find this layout more intuitive and reminiscent of previous Windows versions.
Step 4: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Start Menu icon to open it.
Opening the Start Menu allows you to see the changes you’ve made so far. You should notice the Start Menu is now located on the left side of the Taskbar, just like in Windows 10.
Step 5: Customize Pinned Apps
Right-click on any app in the Start Menu and choose “Unpin from Start” or “Pin to Start” to adjust your pinned apps.
Customizing pinned apps lets you organize your Start Menu to your liking. You can pin your most-used apps for quick access, just like in Windows 10, making your workflow smoother.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 Start Menu will closely resemble the classic Windows 10 style. You’ll enjoy a familiar interface with the Start Menu on the left and a layout that suits your needs. It feels like coming home to an old friend.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10
- Experiment with the Taskbar’s transparency settings to mimic the visual style of Windows 10.
- Consider using a third-party app for even more customization options if you’re tech-savvy.
- Take advantage of Windows 11’s Snap Layouts for better multitasking.
- Remember to regularly update your Windows to benefit from new features and security patches.
- Personalize your desktop background to complete the familiar Windows 10 vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert the changes if I don’t like them?
You can easily revert by going back to Taskbar Settings and switching the alignment back to “Center.”
Can I make the icons smaller, like in Windows 10?
Yes, in Taskbar Settings, you can adjust icon sizes under “Taskbar behaviors.”
Is it possible to use Windows 10 themes in Windows 11?
Yes, you can download and apply Windows 10 themes for a consistent look.
Does changing the Start Menu affect system performance?
No, these changes will not affect your system’s performance. They’re purely aesthetic.
Can I customize the Start Menu in other ways?
Yes, you can change the background color, add folders, and more through Settings.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click on the Taskbar.
- Select “Taskbar Settings.”
- Change Taskbar Alignment to “Left.”
- Open the Start Menu.
- Customize Pinned Apps.
Conclusion
Rediscovering the Windows 10 Start Menu look in Windows 11 is like reuniting with an old pal. While Windows 11 offers a fresh and modern design, there’s nothing quite like the familiarity and comfort of the classic Start Menu layout. By following these simple steps, you don’t just bring back a cherished interface; you also tailor your OS to fit your personal preferences and habits, making your computing experience that much smoother.
As technology evolves, it’s crucial to find harmony between new advancements and what we know and love. If you find yourself nostalgic for the days of Windows 10, these tweaks offer a bridge between old and new, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds. So why not give it a try and see if this little change can make your digital workspace feel more like home? After all, your computer should be as comfortable and intuitive as your favorite pair of sneakers.
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.