Windows 11 To 10: 9 Ways To Get The Classic Look

Aug 7, 2025 by Mei Lin 49 views

How to Transform Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10: 9 Simple Methods

Hey guys! Upgraded to Windows 11 but missing the familiar vibes of Windows 10? Don't worry, you're not alone! Many users feel the same way, especially with the significant UI changes Microsoft introduced. The good news is, you can actually make Windows 11 look and feel a lot like its predecessor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through nine easy ways to bring back the Windows 10 experience to your Windows 11 system. Whether it’s the Start menu, taskbar, or icons, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and get started!

Why Revert to a Windows 10 Look?

Before we get into the how-to, let’s address the why. Why would someone want to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10? The answer is simple: familiarity and comfort. Many users have grown accustomed to the Windows 10 interface over the years. The muscle memory, the quick access points, and the overall layout are deeply ingrained. When you switch to a new operating system like Windows 11, the changes can feel jarring.

The Start Menu Shift: One of the biggest visual changes is the centered Start menu and taskbar icons in Windows 11. While some find this modern and sleek, others miss the traditional left-aligned Start menu. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about workflow. If you're used to clicking the bottom-left corner to access your apps, the new centered position can slow you down, at least initially.
Taskbar Tweaks: Windows 11 has also removed some functionality from the taskbar that was present in Windows 10. For example, you can no longer drag and drop files onto taskbar icons, a feature many users relied on for quick file management. Customization options are also more limited.
Visual Consistency: Beyond the Start menu and taskbar, Windows 11 has a different visual style. The rounded corners, the new icons, and the overall design language are a departure from Windows 10. If you prefer the sharper, more defined look of Windows 10, you might want to tweak Windows 11 to match.

For many, these changes aren't just cosmetic; they affect productivity. Reverting to a Windows 10-like interface can bridge the gap, making the transition smoother and the system more comfortable to use. So, if you're feeling nostalgic or just want a more familiar experience, these nine methods are your ticket to Windows 10 bliss on Windows 11.

1. Move the Taskbar Icons to the Left

The centered taskbar icons are a hallmark of Windows 11, but they’re also a primary reason why many users feel disoriented. Thankfully, Microsoft has included an option to move these icons back to the left, just like in Windows 10. This simple change can make a huge difference in your daily workflow. Getting your taskbar icons back to the left is super easy, guys! It's one of the first things most people do to make Windows 11 feel more like home.

To move the taskbar icons to the left, follow these steps:

Right-click on an empty space on the taskbar. This will open the taskbar context menu.
Select “Taskbar settings”. This will open the Taskbar settings page in the Settings app.
In the Taskbar settings, scroll down and click on “Taskbar behaviors”. This will expand the taskbar behaviors section.
Look for the “Taskbar alignment” option. It’s a dropdown menu that likely says “Center” by default.
Click the dropdown menu and select “Left”. As soon as you do this, you’ll see the taskbar icons jump back to the left side of the screen. Voila!

This single adjustment can significantly improve the feel of Windows 11, making it instantly more familiar. It's a small change, but it makes a big difference in usability, especially if you're used to the traditional Windows layout. Trust me, it’s like giving your muscle memory a high-five!

2. Restore the Windows 10 Start Menu

The Start menu in Windows 11 is a complete redesign, and while it looks modern, it’s quite different from the Windows 10 Start menu. The absence of live tiles, the pinned apps section, and the overall layout can be disorienting for long-time Windows users. If you really miss the Windows 10 Start menu, you can bring it back using third-party software. This is where things get interesting because, let's be honest, the Start menu is the heart of the Windows experience.

One popular tool for restoring the Windows 10 Start menu is Start11 from Stardock. Start11 is a paid application, but it offers a free trial, allowing you to test it out before committing. It not only brings back the Windows 10 Start menu but also offers a range of customization options. You can tweak the colors, transparency, and even the icons to create a Start menu that perfectly fits your style. It really gives you that nostalgic feel, doesn't it?

Here’s how to use Start11 to restore the Windows 10 Start menu:

Download and install Start11 from the Stardock website. After installation, launch the application.
Start11 will present you with several Start menu styles. Select the “Windows 10 style” option. You can see a preview of each style before you select it, which is super handy.
Customize the Start menu to your liking. Start11 offers a plethora of options, such as changing the menu color, adjusting transparency, and configuring the quick access links. Feel free to play around with these settings to create your ideal Start menu.
If you want to pin specific apps or folders to the Start menu, simply right-click on the item and select “Pin to Start11 menu”. This works just like pinning items to the Windows 10 Start menu.

Another option is Open-Shell, a free and open-source tool that's been around for a while and is known for its reliability. Open-Shell is like the trusty old friend who always has your back, especially when it comes to Start menu customization.

Here’s how to use Open-Shell to restore the Windows 10 Start menu:

Download and install Open-Shell from the Open-Shell website (you can easily find it with a quick search).
During installation, you'll have the option to choose which components to install. Make sure “Open-Shell Menu” is selected.
After installation, launch Open-Shell Menu Settings. The first time you open it, you’ll be greeted with a customization window.
Select the “Windows 10 style” option from the available styles. Open-Shell offers various styles, including classic and Windows 7 styles, but for our purpose, we’re sticking with the Windows 10 look.
Customize the Start menu settings as desired. Open-Shell offers extensive customization options, including skin selection, menu items, and button appearance. It’s like having a Start menu Swiss Army knife!

By using either Start11 or Open-Shell, you can effectively bring back the Windows 10 Start menu to Windows 11, providing a more familiar and efficient way to access your applications and system settings. It’s like giving your Windows 11 a time machine, transporting it back to the good old days of Windows 10.

3. Tweak the Taskbar Appearance

Windows 11 has streamlined the taskbar, but this streamlining has also removed some customization options. In Windows 10, you could easily adjust the size of the taskbar icons, combine taskbar buttons, and more. While Windows 11 is more restrictive, there are still some tweaks you can make to resemble the Windows 10 taskbar. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of making your taskbar just right, shall we?

One common request is to reduce the size of the taskbar icons. Unfortunately, Windows 11 doesn’t offer a built-in option to change icon sizes directly from the Settings app. However, there’s a workaround using the Registry Editor. Warning: Be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can cause system instability. Always back up your registry before making any changes. It's like performing surgery on your computer; you want to be extra careful!

Here’s how to reduce taskbar icon size using the Registry Editor:

Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type regedit and press Enter. This will open the Registry Editor.
Navigate to the following key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
In the right pane, right-click on an empty space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Name the new value TaskbarSi.
Double-click on TaskbarSi to modify its value.
Set the Value data to:
- 0 for small icons
- 1 for medium icons (default)
- 2 for large icons
Click OK.
Restart your computer or restart Windows Explorer for the changes to take effect. You can restart Windows Explorer by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, finding “Windows Explorer” in the list, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Restart”.

This registry tweak allows you to shrink the taskbar icons, making them look more like they did in Windows 10. It's a bit of a hidden trick, but it works like a charm!

Another taskbar behavior that Windows 11 changed is the combining of taskbar buttons. In Windows 10, you could set the taskbar to never combine buttons, meaning each window would have its own separate button. Windows 11 combines buttons by default, which some users find less efficient. While Windows 11 doesn’t offer a direct setting to disable this, you can make some adjustments to improve taskbar organization.

You can’t completely prevent taskbar button combining without third-party tools, but you can make it less intrusive by ensuring you have enough space on your taskbar. Closing unnecessary applications and using virtual desktops can help keep your taskbar tidy. Think of it as decluttering your desk; a clean taskbar is a happy taskbar!

By tweaking the taskbar appearance, you can reclaim some of the familiar functionality and visual style of Windows 10. It might take a few steps, but the result is a taskbar that feels more like home. And let’s face it, a comfortable taskbar is essential for a smooth computing experience.

4. Change the Default Web Browser

Windows 11 nudges you to use Microsoft Edge as your default web browser, and changing this can feel like a bit of a hassle compared to Windows 10. However, if you prefer Chrome, Firefox, or any other browser, you absolutely can set it as your default. It's like choosing your favorite coffee shop; you want to go where you feel most comfortable!

Here’s how to change the default web browser in Windows 11:

Click the Start button and select Settings. You can also press Windows Key + I to open Settings directly. It's like taking the express lane to customization!
In the Settings app, click on Apps in the left sidebar. This will take you to the apps settings.
Select Default apps. This is where you’ll manage the default applications for different file types and protocols.
In the Default apps section, you can either search for your preferred browser or scroll through the list of installed apps until you find it. Let’s say you want to set Chrome as your default browser; click on Chrome.
You’ll see a list of file types and protocols associated with web browsing (like .html, .http, .https, etc.). For each entry, click on the currently assigned app (which is likely Microsoft Edge) and select Chrome from the list. Windows 11 will prompt you to confirm your choice for each file type and protocol. It's like a series of confirmations, just to make sure you really mean it!
After changing all the relevant file types and protocols to Chrome, it will be your default web browser. Now, when you click on a web link, it will open in Chrome instead of Edge. Yay for browser freedom!

Changing your default browser ensures that your web browsing experience is consistent with your preferences. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in your daily workflow. Plus, it’s one step closer to making Windows 11 feel more like your old, familiar Windows 10 setup.

5. Customize the Color Scheme

One of the quickest ways to personalize your Windows experience is by tweaking the color scheme. Windows 11 offers both light and dark modes, but you can also customize accent colors to match your style. Bringing back a color scheme that reminds you of Windows 10 can make Windows 11 feel a bit more familiar. It’s like redecorating your room to match your favorite aesthetic!

Here’s how to customize the color scheme in Windows 11:

Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I or by clicking the Start button and selecting Settings.
In the Settings app, click on Personalization in the left sidebar. This is your hub for all things visual customization.
Select Colors. This section allows you to change the overall color scheme of Windows 11.
Under “Choose your mode”, you can select either “Light”, “Dark”, or “Custom”. Light mode gives you a brighter interface, while dark mode is easier on the eyes in low-light environments. If you choose “Custom”, you can set separate modes for Windows and apps. It's like having different outfits for different occasions!
Below the mode settings, you’ll find the “Accent color” section. Windows 11 can automatically pick an accent color based on your desktop background, or you can choose a color manually. To select a manual color, click on one of the colored squares or click the “View colors” button for more options. The color palette is your playground; go wild!
You can also choose where to show the accent color. There are two checkboxes: “Show accent color on Start and taskbar” and “Show accent color on title bars and window borders”. Ticking these boxes will apply your chosen accent color to these areas, adding a personal touch to your interface.

If you want to replicate the Windows 10 color scheme, a good starting point is to choose a blue accent color, as blue was a prominent color in the Windows 10 interface. Experiment with different shades until you find one that feels right. It’s like finding the perfect shade of paint for your walls!

Customizing the color scheme is a simple yet effective way to make Windows 11 feel more like your own. By choosing colors that you find visually appealing and reminiscent of Windows 10, you can bridge the gap between the two operating systems. Plus, it’s a fun way to express your personality through your computer interface.

6. Change Default System Icons

The icons in Windows 11 have a modern, minimalist design, which is a departure from the more detailed icons in Windows 10. If you prefer the classic Windows 10 icons, you can change the default system icons using a few different methods. This might seem like a small detail, but icons are like the road signs of your operating system; familiar ones make navigation smoother!

One popular method is to use icon packs. An icon pack is a collection of icons that replace the default ones in Windows. There are numerous icon packs available online, including packs that specifically replicate the Windows 10 icons. A quick search for “Windows 10 icon pack for Windows 11” will turn up several options. It's like downloading a new wardrobe for your desktop!

Here’s how to change system icons using an icon pack:

Download an icon pack that you like. Make sure the pack is compatible with Windows 11 and comes from a reputable source. You don’t want to download any sketchy stuff!
Extract the icon pack if it’s in a compressed format (like a .zip file). You’ll usually find the icons as .ico files.
Use a customization tool to apply the icon pack. One popular tool is “IconChanger”, which is free and easy to use. You can find it with a quick web search. It’s like having a makeover artist for your icons!
Launch IconChanger and select the icon you want to change (e.g., “This PC,” “Recycle Bin,” etc.).
Click the “Change Icon” button and browse to the location where you extracted the icon pack.
Select the corresponding Windows 10 icon and click “Open”.
Click “Apply” to change the icon. You may need to restart your computer or refresh the desktop for the changes to take effect.

Another method is to manually change individual icons using the “Change Icon” option in the properties of shortcuts and system folders. This method is more time-consuming but gives you finer control over which icons you change. It’s like hand-picking the perfect accessories for your outfit!

Here’s how to manually change system icons:

Find the shortcut or system folder whose icon you want to change (e.g., the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop).
Right-click on the shortcut or folder and select “Properties”.
If you’re changing a shortcut icon, go to the “Shortcut” tab. If you’re changing a system folder icon, go to the “Customize” tab.
Click the “Change Icon” button.
Browse to the location where you have saved your Windows 10 icons (either from an icon pack or individual .ico files).
Select the desired icon and click “Open”.
Click “OK” in the Change Icon window, then click “Apply” and “OK” in the Properties window.

By changing the default system icons, you can bring a touch of Windows 10’s visual style to Windows 11. It’s a fun way to customize your system and make it feel more familiar. Plus, it's a nice little project for a rainy afternoon!

7. Disable Transparency Effects

Windows 11 features transparency effects in various areas, such as the taskbar and Start menu. While these effects can look sleek, they might not be to everyone’s taste, and disabling them can help Windows 11 feel more like Windows 10, which had a more opaque interface. Think of it as choosing between frosted and clear glass; it’s all about personal preference!

Here’s how to disable transparency effects in Windows 11:

Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I or by clicking the Start button and selecting Settings.
In the Settings app, click on Personalization in the left sidebar. This is where you’ll find all the visual customization options.
Select Colors. This section allows you to customize the color scheme and transparency effects.
Toggle the “Transparency effects” switch to the “Off” position. When the switch is off, transparency effects will be disabled throughout Windows 11. It’s like flipping a light switch; instant change!

Disabling transparency effects can make the interface look cleaner and more solid, which aligns with the design aesthetic of Windows 10. It can also improve system performance slightly, as transparency effects require some processing power. It’s a win-win situation!

Another way to customize the visual appearance of Windows 11 is by adjusting the accent color, as mentioned earlier. By choosing a solid accent color and disabling transparency, you can create a more defined and less translucent interface. It’s like choosing a bold paint color for your walls instead of a sheer tint.

Disabling transparency effects is a subtle but effective way to make Windows 11 look and feel more like Windows 10. It’s a simple tweak that can make a big difference in your overall experience. And hey, if you ever miss the transparency, you can always turn it back on!

8. Restore the Context Menu

Windows 11 introduced a streamlined context menu (the menu that appears when you right-click), which hides some options under a “Show more options” entry. This can be less efficient for users who are used to having all options immediately visible, as in Windows 10. Restoring the classic context menu can improve your workflow and make Windows 11 feel more familiar. It's like having your favorite tool belt back; everything is right where you expect it!

There are a couple of ways to restore the classic context menu in Windows 11. One method is to use the Registry Editor, and the other is to use a third-party tool. Let’s start with the Registry Editor method. Remember, be careful when editing the registry, and always back it up before making changes.

Here’s how to restore the classic context menu using the Registry Editor:

Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type regedit and press Enter. This will open the Registry Editor.
Navigate to the following key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID
Right-click on the CLSID key in the left pane and select New > Key.
Name the new key {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2} (copy and paste this to ensure accuracy).
Right-click on the newly created key in the left pane and select New > Key.
Name this key InprocServer32.
Double-click on the (Default) value in the right pane of the InprocServer32 key.
Leave the Value data field blank and click OK.
Restart your computer or restart Windows Explorer for the changes to take effect.

After restarting, the context menu should revert to the classic Windows 10 style. It's like a magic trick for your right-click!

If you prefer not to edit the registry manually, you can use a third-party tool to restore the classic context menu. One such tool is “Winaero Tweaker”, which is a free and comprehensive customization utility for Windows. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for Windows tweaks!

Here’s how to use Winaero Tweaker to restore the classic context menu:

Download and install Winaero Tweaker from the Winaero website (a quick web search will lead you there).
Launch Winaero Tweaker.
In the left pane, navigate to Windows 11 > Classic Full Context Menus.
Check the box labeled Restore classic full context menus.
Winaero Tweaker will prompt you to restart Explorer. Click Restart Explorer to apply the changes.

Using Winaero Tweaker is a more straightforward method, especially if you’re not comfortable editing the registry. It's like using a shortcut to get to your destination!

Restoring the classic context menu can significantly improve your productivity, especially if you frequently use right-click options. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your daily workflow. Plus, it brings back a bit of that familiar Windows 10 feel to Windows 11.

9. Customize the Start Menu Layout

While using a third-party tool like Start11 or Open-Shell is the most direct way to restore the Windows 10 Start menu, you can still customize the Windows 11 Start menu to better suit your needs. Pinning frequently used apps and folders, and organizing them in a familiar layout, can make the Windows 11 Start menu more efficient and Windows 10-like. It’s like arranging your furniture to create a more comfortable living space!

Here’s how to customize the Start menu layout in Windows 11:

Open the Start menu by clicking the Start button or pressing the Windows Key.
To pin an app to the Start menu, find the app in the “All apps” list, right-click on it, and select “Pin to Start”. It’s like adding a new book to your bookshelf!
To unpin an app, right-click on its tile in the Start menu and select “Unpin from Start”. This helps you keep your Start menu clutter-free.
You can rearrange the pinned apps by clicking and dragging their tiles to different positions. Grouping related apps together can make the Start menu more organized. It’s like organizing your spices in the kitchen!
Windows 11 also allows you to create folders within the Start menu. To create a folder, simply drag one app tile onto another. This will create a folder containing both apps. You can then add more apps to the folder by dragging them onto it. Folders are great for grouping apps by category or function.
To name a folder, click on it to open it, then click on the name above the tiles. Type the new name and press Enter. It’s like labeling your storage boxes!

By customizing the Start menu layout, you can create a more personalized and efficient experience. Pinning frequently used apps, organizing them into folders, and arranging them in a logical manner can make the Windows 11 Start menu feel more like the Windows 10 Start menu, where you had a clear overview of your most important programs. Plus, it’s a fun way to express your organizational skills!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Nine simple yet effective ways to make Windows 11 look and feel more like Windows 10. Whether it’s moving the taskbar icons, restoring the classic Start menu, or tweaking the color scheme, these methods can help you bridge the gap between the two operating systems. Remember, the goal is to create a computing environment that’s comfortable and efficient for you. Experiment with these tweaks, find what works best, and enjoy your customized Windows 11 experience. It’s all about making your computer feel like home!

By implementing these changes, you can enjoy the benefits of Windows 11 while retaining the familiarity and comfort of Windows 10. It’s the best of both worlds! Happy customizing, guys!