Changing the color of your taskbar in Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to personalize your desktop experience. By tweaking a few settings, you can make your taskbar stand out with a color that suits your style. Follow these steps to give your taskbar a fresh new look.
How to Change Taskbar Color in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk through the steps to change the taskbar color on a Windows 10 computer. These steps will guide you through the process, ensuring you can easily customize your taskbar’s appearance.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click on the Start menu and select "Settings."
The Settings menu is your gateway to customizing various aspects of Windows. You can access it quickly by clicking the gear icon in the Start menu or pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Click on "Personalization" in the Settings menu.
Personalization is where you’ll find options to change the appearance of your desktop, including the taskbar. It contains various settings for themes, background images, and, of course, colors.
Step 3: Access the Colors Tab
Click on the "Colors" tab on the left-hand side.
The Colors tab is where you can adjust the color scheme of your Windows interface. Here, you can choose from a variety of colors to apply to different elements, including the taskbar.
Step 4: Show accent color on the taskbar
Scroll down and find the option that says "Show accent color on the following surfaces." Make sure to check the box for "Start, taskbar, and action center."
This option allows you to apply your chosen accent color to the taskbar, start menu, and action center, giving your desktop a cohesive look.
Step 5: Select Your Color
Choose a color from the palette or click on "Custom color" to pick your own.
Feel free to experiment with different colors until you find one that feels just right. The preview window will show you how your taskbar will look before you apply the change.
After you complete these steps, your taskbar will reflect the new color you selected. It’s an easy way to refresh your workspace and add a personal touch to your computer.
Tips for Changing Taskbar Color in Windows 10
- Make sure your Windows theme supports accent colors. Some themes, like High Contrast, may not allow color changes.
- Experiment with different colors to see which one complements your background image.
- If you don’t like the available colors, you can create a custom color using the RGB values.
- Don’t forget to check how the new color affects visibility. Some colors may make icons or text hard to read.
- You can always revert to the default color by unchecking the "Show accent color on the following surfaces" box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the taskbar color without changing the start menu color?
No, in Windows 10, the taskbar, start menu, and action center share the same accent color. Changing one will change the others.
Why can’t I change my taskbar color?
Ensure that the "Show accent color on the following surfaces" option is checked. Also, make sure that you’re not using a theme that restricts color changes.
Can I make my taskbar completely transparent?
Windows 10 does not support full transparency for the taskbar. However, you can increase transparency slightly by enabling "Transparency effects" in the Colors settings.
Is it possible to have a gradient color on the taskbar?
Windows 10 does not natively support gradient colors for the taskbar. You can only select solid colors.
Will changing the taskbar color affect system performance?
Changing the taskbar color is a cosmetic change and does not impact system performance. It’s purely for visual customization.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization.
- Access the Colors tab.
- Show accent color on the taskbar.
- Select your color.
Conclusion
Personalizing your Windows 10 taskbar color is a quick and easy way to make your desktop feel more like your own. Whether you want a bright and bold look or something more subdued, changing the taskbar color lets you express your style. The steps outlined in this article make the process straightforward and accessible, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.
Feel free to explore other personalization options in the Settings menu. You might be surprised by how much you can customize. If you’re looking for more ways to enhance your Windows 10 experience, consider diving into settings for themes, backgrounds, and fonts.
Remember, the key to a good computer setup is not just how it functions but also how it feels to use. So go ahead, take a few minutes to tweak your taskbar color, and enjoy a splash of personality on your screen. Happy customizing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.