If you want to change the size of your taskbar in Windows 10, it’s a pretty straightforward process. All you need to do is unlock the taskbar, click and drag it to your desired size, and then lock it again. This will give you more room for your icons or free up some screen space.
How to Change Taskbar Size in Windows 10
Changing the size of the taskbar in Windows 10 can help you customize your desktop to fit your needs better. Whether you want more space for icons or a slimmer taskbar, these easy steps will guide you through the process.
Step 1: Unlock the Taskbar
First, right-click on an empty spot on the taskbar and select "Lock the taskbar" to uncheck it.
This step allows you to resize the taskbar. When the taskbar is locked, it cannot be resized, so you need to unlock it first to make any changes.
Step 2: Hover Over the Taskbar Edge
Next, move your mouse cursor to the edge of the taskbar until it changes to a double-sided arrow.
This cursor change indicates that you can now adjust the size of the taskbar. Be patient; you might need to move the mouse slightly until you see the arrow.
Step 3: Click and Drag
Then, click and hold the left mouse button, and drag the edge of the taskbar up or down to increase or decrease its size.
Dragging will immediately show you how big or small the taskbar will be, so adjust it until it fits your preference.
Step 4: Release the Mouse Button
Once you’ve resized the taskbar to your liking, release the mouse button to set the new size.
Make sure you’re happy with the size before releasing, as this will finalize the new layout.
Step 5: Lock the Taskbar Again
Finally, right-click on an empty spot on the taskbar once more, and select "Lock the taskbar" to check it.
Locking the taskbar prevents accidental resizing in the future, keeping your desktop layout consistent.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your taskbar will resize according to your adjustments. This helps you customize your workspace, making it more efficient and tailored to your needs.
Tips for Changing Taskbar Size in Windows 10
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different sizes until you find what works best for you.
- Icon Size: Changing the taskbar size can also affect icon size; keep that in mind if you prefer larger or smaller icons.
- Taskbar Position: You can also move the taskbar to the sides or top of the screen if resizing alone isn’t enough.
- Auto-Hide Feature: Consider using the auto-hide taskbar feature for more screen space.
- Restart if Necessary: If the taskbar doesn’t resize correctly, try restarting your computer to see if that helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I resize the taskbar without unlocking it?
No, you must unlock the taskbar first to resize it.
What if the taskbar doesn’t resize?
Ensure it’s unlocked and try again. Restarting your computer may also help.
Can I move the taskbar to a different side of the screen?
Yes, you can drag it to the left, right, or top.
Does resizing the taskbar affect the icons?
Yes, resizing the taskbar can change the size of the icons.
Will this affect my open applications?
No, resizing the taskbar will not affect your running applications.
Summary of Steps to Change Taskbar Size in Windows 10
- Unlock the taskbar.
- Hover over the taskbar edge.
- Click and drag.
- Release the mouse button.
- Lock the taskbar again.
Conclusion
Changing the taskbar size in Windows 10 is a simple way to customize your desktop environment. By following these easy steps, you can adjust the taskbar to suit your preferences, whether you need more space for your favorite applications or want a more streamlined look. Don’t forget to lock the taskbar afterward to keep your settings in place. If you run into any issues or have more questions, there are plenty of resources and communities online to help you troubleshoot. So go ahead, give it a try, and make your Windows 10 experience truly your own!
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.