Changing the size of the taskbar in Windows 10 is a straightforward task that can help you free up screen real estate or customize your workspace to better suit your needs. By following a few simple steps, you can make the taskbar smaller and enhance your computing experience.
How to Make Taskbar Smaller Windows 10
This section will guide you through each step to make your Windows 10 taskbar smaller. You will adjust the taskbar settings to change its size, providing more screen space for your applications and desktop.
Step 1: Right-Click on the Taskbar
Step 1: Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
When you right-click on the taskbar, a context menu will appear. This menu offers various options for customizing your taskbar.
Step 2: Select Taskbar Settings
Step 2: From the context menu, select "Taskbar settings."
Choosing "Taskbar settings" will open a new window where you can make adjustments to the taskbar’s appearance and behavior.
Step 3: Toggle the "Use small taskbar buttons" Option
Step 3: Find the "Use small taskbar buttons" option and toggle it on.
In the taskbar settings window, there is an option called "Use small taskbar buttons." Switch this option to "On" to reduce the size of the taskbar buttons.
Step 4: Confirm the Adjustment
Step 4: Close the settings window to apply the changes.
After toggling the option, you can close the settings window. The taskbar will automatically adjust to the smaller size.
Once you complete these steps, your taskbar will be smaller, giving you more screen space and a cleaner look. This can make your desktop feel less cluttered and more efficient.
Tips for Making Taskbar Smaller Windows 10
- Check Icon Clarity: Ensure that the smaller icons are still clear and recognizable for easy navigation.
- Revert Option: If you find the smaller taskbar isn’t to your liking, you can easily revert the changes by toggling the "Use small taskbar buttons" option off.
- Explore Further Settings: Take some time to explore other taskbar settings for additional customization, like taskbar location or combining taskbar buttons.
- Taskbar Lock: Lock the taskbar to prevent accidental changes by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting "Lock the taskbar."
- System Tray Icons: Adjust system tray icons’ visibility to keep only the necessary ones visible, further decluttering your taskbar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert to the original taskbar size?
To revert to the original taskbar size, follow the same steps and toggle the "Use small taskbar buttons" option off.
Will changing the taskbar size affect my open applications?
Changing the taskbar size won’t affect your open applications. It only alters the size of the taskbar and its icons.
Can I move the taskbar to a different screen edge?
Yes, you can move the taskbar to any screen edge. In the taskbar settings, you can change its position to the left, right, or top of the screen.
What if my icons are too small to see?
If the smaller icons are too difficult to see, toggle the "Use small taskbar buttons" option off to return to the regular size.
Is there a way to change the icon size individually?
No, the taskbar settings apply to all icons uniformly. Individual icon size changes are not possible directly from the taskbar settings.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click on the taskbar.
- Select "Taskbar settings."
- Toggle the "Use small taskbar buttons" option.
- Close the settings window.
Conclusion
Changing the size of your taskbar in Windows 10 is a quick and easy way to customize your desktop and improve your workflow. By making the taskbar smaller, you can free up valuable screen space and create a more streamlined environment. If you ever need to revert the changes, doing so is just as easy with a few clicks.
For further reading, consider exploring other taskbar customization options in Windows 10, such as auto-hiding the taskbar or adjusting which icons appear in the system tray. Customizing your taskbar to fit your personal style and needs can make your computing experience more enjoyable and efficient. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how a smaller taskbar can make a big difference!
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.