Are you missing the familiar layout of Windows 10 start menu on your new Windows 11? Worry not! You can easily make your Windows 11 start menu look like Windows 10 with a few simple tweaks. Here’s a quick guide on how to do just that.
Step by Step Tutorial: Make Windows 11 Start Menu Like Windows 10
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that by following these instructions, you’ll be able to get a start menu that closely resembles the one in Windows 10. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer.
The Settings app is where you can customize various aspects of your computer, including the start menu. You can open Settings by clicking on the gear icon in the start menu or by pressing Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Click on "Personalization" in the Settings app.
Personalization is where you can change the look and feel of your Windows 11, including themes, colors, and the start menu layout.
Step 3: Click on Start
Within the Personalization settings, click on "Start" to access the start menu options.
The Start section allows you to customize which items appear on your start menu and how they are arranged.
Step 4: Turn on ‘Show more pins’
Toggle the switch for "Show more pins" to the on position.
By enabling "Show more pins," you’ll increase the number of app icons that can be pinned to the start menu, similar to the layout in Windows 10.
Step 5: Turn off ‘Show recently added apps’
Toggle the switch for "Show recently added apps" to the off position.
Windows 10 didn’t automatically show recently added apps in the start menu, so turning this off will make your Windows 11 start menu more like Windows 10.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 start menu will have a more familiar look and feel, similar to that of Windows 10. You’ll have more space for your pinned apps and a cleaner layout without the recently added apps section.
Tips: Optimizing Your New Windows 10-Style Start Menu
- Consider rearranging your pinned apps to match the layout you were used to in Windows 10.
- You can also resize the start menu by clicking and dragging the edges, just like in Windows 10.
- If you want the full Windows 10 experience, you can install third-party software like StartIsBack or Start10 to further customize the start menu.
- Remember that you can always revert to the default Windows 11 start menu by reversing the changes made in the Settings app.
- Keep your start menu organized by grouping similar apps together in folders, just like you could in Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my Windows 11 start menu to look like Windows 10 affect performance?
No, changing the start menu’s appearance will not impact your computer’s performance. It’s purely a cosmetic change.
Can I still use Windows 11 features if I make the start menu look like Windows 10?
Yes, all Windows 11 features will still be available to you even after changing the start menu’s appearance.
Is it possible to get the exact Windows 10 start menu on Windows 11?
While you can make your start menu closely resemble Windows 10’s, it won’t be an exact replica. Some features and layouts are unique to each version of Windows.
Do I need to install any additional software to make my start menu look like Windows 10?
No, you can achieve a similar look using the built-in Settings app on Windows 11. However, for additional customization options, you may use third-party software.
If I don’t like the changes, how do I revert back to the Windows 11 start menu?
Simply go back into the Start settings in the Personalization section and reverse the changes you made.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Click on Personalization.
- Select Start.
- Enable ‘Show more pins’.
- Disable ‘Show recently added apps’.
Conclusion
Customizing your Windows 11 start menu to look like Windows 10 is a simple process that can make the transition to the new operating system feel more comfortable. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can quickly adjust the layout and features of your start menu to your liking. Remember, the key is to explore the Personalization settings and tweak them until you’re happy with the results.
While these changes are mostly aesthetic, they can significantly impact your daily workflow and productivity. A familiar start menu can help you navigate your computer more efficiently and make it easier to access your most-used apps and files. So, take the time to set it up just right, and you’ll be a Windows 11 pro in no time!
If you ever feel like switching back to the default Windows 11 start menu or trying out new customizations, the Settings app is always there for you to experiment with. The beauty of Windows is its versatility and the ability to make it your own. Happy customizing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.