Windows 11 To 10: 9 Easy Customization Tips

Are you a Windows 10 enthusiast who's recently made the jump to Windows 11? Or perhaps you've bought a new machine that comes pre-loaded with the latest operating system? One thing's for sure, Windows 11 brings a fresh, modern look, but it's understandable if you miss the familiar interface of Windows 10. Don't worry, guys! You're not alone, and you absolutely can bring back that comforting Windows 10 vibe. This article is your ultimate guide on how to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10. We'll walk you through 9 easy ways to customize your experience and get the best of both worlds.

Why Revert to the Windows 10 Look?

Before we dive into the "how," let's quickly address the "why." Windows 11 has a sleek, centered Start menu and taskbar, rounded corners, and a generally more streamlined aesthetic. While many users appreciate these changes, others find them disruptive to their workflow. Maybe you're used to the Start menu being in the bottom-left corner, or perhaps you prefer the classic icons. Whatever your reason, personalizing your operating system is all about maximizing your productivity and comfort. And hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? For many users, the familiarity of Windows 10 is a productivity booster in itself. Reverting to the old look can minimize the learning curve and make the transition to Windows 11 smoother. Plus, let's be honest, sometimes we just like what we like! It’s about creating a digital environment that feels comfortable and efficient for you.

Moreover, some users might find the new interface less intuitive initially. The muscle memory built over years of using Windows 10 can make the changes in Windows 11 feel jarring. By making Windows 11 look like Windows 10, you are essentially bridging the gap, allowing your brain to adapt gradually while still enjoying the performance and security benefits of the newer operating system. This approach is particularly useful in professional environments where minimizing disruption and maximizing efficiency are crucial. Imagine a team of employees suddenly faced with a completely new interface – the resulting dip in productivity could be significant. By offering a familiar look, you're enabling a smoother transition and reducing the learning curve for everyone involved. So, let's get started on this awesome journey of customization!

1. Move the Start Menu and Taskbar Icons to the Left

The most immediate visual difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 is the Start menu and taskbar icons, which are centered in Windows 11. To bring back the classic left-aligned look, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar and select “Taskbar settings.”
2. In the Settings window, scroll down and click on “Taskbar behaviors.”
3. Find the “Taskbar alignment” option and change it from “Center” to “Left.”

Voila! Your Start menu and taskbar icons are now back on the left, just like in Windows 10. This simple tweak can make a huge difference in how familiar Windows 11 feels. Many users find that having the Start button in the bottom-left corner is more intuitive, especially if they've been using Windows for a long time. It's all about that muscle memory, you know? Plus, this adjustment frees up valuable space in the center of your taskbar, making it less cluttered and easier to navigate. This seemingly small change is actually one of the most impactful ways to make Windows 11 look and feel more like its predecessor.

Once you've moved the Start menu, take a moment to rearrange the icons on your taskbar to your liking. This is a great opportunity to customize your workspace and put your most frequently used apps within easy reach. Think about which programs you access most often and position their icons accordingly. You can also pin new applications to the taskbar by right-clicking on their icons in the Start menu or File Explorer and selecting “Pin to taskbar.” This level of personalization is key to creating a comfortable and efficient computing experience. By taking control of your taskbar, you're not just making Windows 11 look like Windows 10; you're also tailoring it to your specific needs and preferences.

2. Restore the Classic Start Menu with Open-Shell or Start11

While moving the Start menu to the left helps, the Windows 11 Start menu itself is quite different from Windows 10. To truly recapture the Windows 10 experience, you can use third-party tools like Open-Shell or Start11. These applications replace the Windows 11 Start menu with a classic version.

• Open-Shell: This is a free and open-source option that offers a highly customizable Windows 7-style Start menu. It's a popular choice for users who want a classic look without spending any money. Open-Shell allows you to choose from different Start menu styles, customize the appearance, and even add features like jump lists and recent documents. It's a fantastic way to bring back the familiar functionality of the Windows 7 Start menu, which many Windows 10 users also appreciated. The flexibility of Open-Shell means you can tweak it to match your exact preferences, making it a powerful tool for customization. Plus, the fact that it's open-source means it's constantly being updated and improved by a community of developers. Talk about a sweet deal!
• Start11: Developed by Stardock, Start11 is a paid application that offers even more customization options and features. It lets you choose from various Start menu styles, including Windows 7, Windows 10, and even a modern style that blends elements of both. Start11 also offers advanced features like taskbar customization, enhanced search, and the ability to create custom Start menu layouts. If you're looking for the ultimate level of control over your Start menu, Start11 is definitely worth considering. The developers at Stardock have a long history of creating excellent Windows customization tools, and Start11 is no exception. Its intuitive interface and wealth of features make it a top choice for users who want to truly transform their Start menu experience. And let's be real, sometimes paying for a premium tool is worth it for the added features and support.

To use these tools, simply download and install them, then follow the on-screen instructions to customize your Start menu. You'll be amazed at how much these applications can transform the look and feel of Windows 11. They not only bring back the visual style of the classic Start menu but also restore its functionality, such as quick access to applications, documents, and settings. The ability to customize the Start menu is a game-changer for productivity, allowing you to create a workflow that suits your individual needs. Whether you choose Open-Shell or Start11, you're taking a significant step towards making Windows 11 feel like your old friend Windows 10.

3. Disable Rounded Corners

One of the defining visual characteristics of Windows 11 is its rounded corners on windows and menus. If you prefer the sharp corners of Windows 10, you can disable the rounded corners using third-party tools like RoundedTB or by modifying system files (though this is a more advanced option and should be done with caution).

• RoundedTB: This handy tool allows you to customize the appearance of your taskbar, including disabling rounded corners. It also offers other customization options, such as changing the taskbar margins and adding transparency effects. RoundedTB is a simple and effective way to get rid of those rounded corners without delving into complicated system settings. The ease of use makes it a popular choice for users who want to quickly tweak their taskbar appearance. Plus, the extra customization options allow you to fine-tune the look and feel of your taskbar to your exact liking. Talk about a win-win! You can download RoundedTB from the Microsoft Store or GitHub, making it easily accessible and safe to use.

Modifying System Files (Advanced): If you're comfortable with more technical solutions, you can disable rounded corners by modifying system files. However, this method is not recommended for beginners as it can potentially lead to system instability if done incorrectly. It involves using tools like Resource Hacker to edit the system files responsible for rendering the user interface. Before attempting this, it's crucial to create a system backup so you can restore your computer if something goes wrong. While this method offers the most control over the appearance of Windows 11, it also carries the highest risk. So, proceed with caution, my friends! Unless you're a seasoned Windows tweaker, it's best to stick with a tool like RoundedTB.

Disabling the rounded corners is a subtle but noticeable change that can significantly contribute to the Windows 10 look. The sharp, rectangular windows and menus create a more traditional and familiar aesthetic. For many users, this small tweak is enough to make Windows 11 feel less alien and more like the operating system they know and love. Remember, personalizing your operating system is all about making it your own, and every little change adds up to create a customized experience.

4. Change the Default Icons

Windows 11 features a new set of icons that are different from those in Windows 10. To revert to the classic Windows 10 icons, you can use third-party icon packs or manually replace individual icons.

• Third-Party Icon Packs: Several websites offer icon packs that replicate the Windows 10 icons. These packs typically come with an installer that automatically replaces the default Windows 11 icons. Using an icon pack is the easiest and most efficient way to change all your icons at once. It's like giving your desktop a complete makeover with just a few clicks! Websites like DeviantArt are great resources for finding high-quality icon packs. Just make sure to download icon packs from reputable sources to avoid any security risks. Safety first, guys! Before installing an icon pack, it's always a good idea to create a system restore point so you can easily revert to the default icons if you don't like the new ones.
• Manually Replacing Icons: If you prefer a more granular approach, you can manually replace individual icons. This involves right-clicking on a shortcut or file, selecting “Properties,” clicking on the “Change Icon” button, and then browsing to the location of the new icon. While this method is more time-consuming, it allows you to customize specific icons without changing the entire icon set. This is perfect for users who want to mix and match icons or only change a few that they particularly dislike. Manually replacing icons gives you ultimate control over the visual appearance of your desktop. However, it's important to keep track of the changes you've made so you can easily revert them if necessary. Patience is key! But the end result – a perfectly customized icon set – is well worth the effort.

Switching back to the Windows 10 icons is another key step in making Windows 11 look like its predecessor. The icons are a prominent part of the user interface, and using the familiar Windows 10 icons can significantly enhance the feeling of familiarity. The visual consistency across your desktop and File Explorer will create a more cohesive and comfortable computing experience. Whether you choose to use an icon pack or manually replace icons, this is a customization that will pay off in terms of both aesthetics and usability. Remember, it's all about creating a digital environment that feels like home.

5. Customize the Taskbar

The Windows 11 taskbar has some notable differences compared to Windows 10, such as the absence of the “Cortana” button and the smaller icons. You can customize the taskbar to better resemble Windows 10 by:

• Hiding the Search, Task View, and Widgets Buttons: Right-click on the taskbar, select “Taskbar settings,” and toggle off the “Search,” “Task View,” and “Widgets” buttons. This will clean up the taskbar and give it a more minimalist look, similar to Windows 10. Getting rid of these buttons can free up valuable space and declutter your taskbar, making it easier to focus on the applications you have open. Plus, if you don't use these features frequently, there's no need for them to take up space on your taskbar. Less is more, sometimes! Hiding these buttons is a quick and easy way to achieve a cleaner and more streamlined taskbar experience.
• Adjusting Taskbar Icon Size (Using Registry Editor): While there's no direct setting to change the taskbar icon size, you can modify the Registry Editor to make the icons smaller, resembling the Windows 10 size. Warning: Incorrectly editing the registry can cause system problems, so proceed with caution and back up your registry before making changes. To do this, search for “Registry Editor” in the Start menu, open it, and navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named TaskbarSi and set its value to 0 for small icons, 1 for medium (default), or 2 for large icons. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect. This method allows you to fine-tune the size of your taskbar icons, bringing them closer to the Windows 10 appearance. However, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and back up your registry to prevent any potential issues. Safety first, remember? If you're not comfortable editing the registry, it's best to skip this step or seek help from a more experienced user.

Customizing the taskbar is a crucial step in recreating the Windows 10 look. The taskbar is a central part of the Windows interface, and tweaking its appearance can have a significant impact on the overall user experience. By hiding unnecessary buttons and adjusting the icon size, you can make the Windows 11 taskbar feel more familiar and comfortable. This customization, combined with other changes, will help you bridge the gap between Windows 11 and Windows 10, creating a seamless transition and a personalized computing environment. Remember, the goal is to make your operating system work for you, not the other way around.

6. Change the Default Apps

Windows 11 has its own set of default apps for various tasks, such as opening web pages, playing media, and viewing photos. If you prefer the apps you used in Windows 10, you can change the default apps in Settings.

1. Open the Settings app (Windows key + I).
2. Click on “Apps” and then “Default apps.”
3. You can set default apps by file type or link type, or choose defaults for specific applications.

This allows you to bring back your favorite apps and make them the go-to options for their respective tasks. For example, if you prefer Google Chrome over Microsoft Edge as your web browser, you can set Chrome as the default browser. Similarly, if you like a particular photo viewer or media player, you can set them as the default apps for those types of files. This customization ensures that you're always using the tools you're most comfortable with, making your computing experience more efficient and enjoyable. It's all about personal preference, guys! By changing the default apps, you're essentially tailoring Windows 11 to your specific needs and workflows. This is a simple but powerful way to make the operating system feel more familiar and comfortable.

Think about the apps you use most often and consider whether you're happy with the Windows 11 defaults. If not, take a few minutes to change them to your preferred options. This small change can make a big difference in your daily computing routine. For instance, if you rely on a particular email client or text editor, setting it as the default will save you time and frustration in the long run. Remember, the key to a productive computing experience is to have the right tools at your fingertips. By customizing the default apps, you're ensuring that you have the tools you need, exactly when you need them. So, go ahead and make those changes – your future self will thank you!

7. Adjust the Color Scheme

The default color scheme in Windows 11 is different from Windows 10. To match the Windows 10 look, you can adjust the color scheme in Settings.

1. Open the Settings app (Windows key + I).
2. Click on “Personalization” and then “Colors.”
3. Choose a color mode (Light or Dark) and select an accent color. You can also enable the “Show accent color on Start and taskbar” option to make the taskbar and Start menu use the accent color.

Experiment with different color combinations to find one that closely resembles the Windows 10 color scheme. You can also choose a custom color if you have a specific preference. Adjusting the color scheme is a fantastic way to personalize the look and feel of Windows 11. The right color combination can make your desktop more visually appealing and easier on the eyes. If you're used to the Windows 10 color scheme, bringing it back in Windows 11 can create a sense of familiarity and comfort. It's like putting on your favorite pair of shoes! The ability to customize the colors of your operating system is a powerful tool for creating a computing environment that reflects your personal style and preferences.

Consider the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve and choose colors that complement each other. You can also look online for inspiration and find color palettes that match the Windows 10 look. Remember, the goal is to create a visual experience that you enjoy and that helps you focus on your work. Don't be afraid to experiment with different options until you find the perfect combination. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even create your own custom color scheme from scratch! The possibilities are endless when it comes to color customization. So, dive in and have fun with it!

8. Revert to the Classic File Explorer Ribbon

The File Explorer in Windows 11 has a simplified command bar instead of the ribbon interface found in Windows 10. While there’s no built-in option to revert to the classic ribbon, you can use third-party tools like ExplorerPatcher to bring it back.

ExplorerPatcher is a free and open-source tool that allows you to customize various aspects of the Windows 11 user interface, including restoring the classic File Explorer ribbon. It's a powerful tool for users who want to fine-tune their Windows 11 experience and bring back features from previous versions of Windows. The classic File Explorer ribbon provides a more comprehensive set of commands and options, which some users find more efficient and intuitive. If you're used to the ribbon interface in Windows 10, ExplorerPatcher can help you recreate that experience in Windows 11. It's like having the best of both worlds! The tool is relatively easy to install and use, but it's always a good idea to read the documentation and follow the instructions carefully.

Using ExplorerPatcher, you can not only restore the classic File Explorer ribbon but also customize other aspects of the user interface, such as the taskbar and Start menu. This level of customization allows you to create a Windows 11 environment that truly feels like your own. However, it's important to note that third-party customization tools can sometimes cause compatibility issues, so it's always a good idea to test the changes thoroughly before making them permanent. If you encounter any problems, you can usually revert to the default settings by uninstalling the tool or restoring a system backup. But hey, don't let that scare you away! ExplorerPatcher is a fantastic tool for advanced users who want to take control of their Windows 11 experience.

9. Disable Transparency Effects

Windows 11 has transparency effects enabled by default, which some users may find distracting or prefer to disable for performance reasons. You can disable transparency effects in Settings.

1. Open the Settings app (Windows key + I).
2. Click on “Personalization” and then “Colors.”
3. Toggle off the “Transparency effects” option.

Disabling transparency effects can make the windows and menus appear more solid and less translucent. This can improve readability and reduce visual clutter. It's a simple change that can have a noticeable impact on the overall look and feel of Windows 11. Plus, disabling transparency effects can sometimes improve system performance, especially on older computers. It's a win-win situation! If you're looking for a cleaner and more streamlined visual experience, disabling transparency effects is definitely worth considering.

Think about the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve and whether transparency effects fit into that vision. Some users prefer the solid look of disabled transparency, while others appreciate the subtle depth and layering that transparency effects provide. There's no right or wrong answer – it's all about personal preference. Experiment with the setting and see which option you prefer. Remember, personalizing your operating system is all about making it work for you, and every little tweak helps you create a computing environment that you enjoy using.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! Nine easy ways to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10. By following these steps, you can bring back the familiar interface you love while still enjoying the benefits of the latest operating system. Customizing your operating system is all about creating a comfortable and efficient computing environment that suits your individual needs and preferences. So, don't be afraid to experiment and tweak things until you get it just right. Whether you miss the classic Start menu, the traditional icons, or the sharp corners of Windows 10, you can absolutely recreate that experience in Windows 11. Remember, your computer is a tool, and you should be able to use it in a way that feels natural and productive. So go ahead, make Windows 11 your own! And most importantly, have fun with it! Customization is a journey, not a destination. So, keep exploring, keep tweaking, and keep making your Windows experience better and better.

FAQs

Can I completely revert to Windows 10 from Windows 11?

Yes, you can revert to Windows 10 within the first 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11 by going to Settings > System > Recovery and clicking “Go back.” After 10 days, you’ll need to perform a clean installation of Windows 10.

Are third-party customization tools safe to use?

Most reputable third-party customization tools are safe to use, but it’s always a good idea to download them from trusted sources and read reviews before installing them. Additionally, create a system restore point before making any significant changes to your system.

Will these customizations affect Windows 11 performance?

Some customizations, such as disabling transparency effects, can improve performance, while others may have a minimal impact. It’s always a good idea to monitor your system performance after making changes to ensure they’re not negatively affecting your experience.

What if I don’t like the changes I’ve made?

You can always revert the changes you’ve made by undoing the steps you took or using system restore to go back to a previous state. This is why it’s crucial to create a system restore point before making significant changes.