How to Make Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10
If you’re one of those people who prefer the familiar look of the Windows 10 Start Menu over Windows 11’s new design, you’re in luck! With a few tweaks and some handy tools, you can make your Windows 11 Start Menu look a lot like the one from Windows 10. Here’s a quick guide to help you get there.
How to Make Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk through some easy steps to transform the Windows 11 Start Menu to look like the Windows 10 version. By following these instructions, you can restore the classic design and layout that you’re used to.
Step 1: Download and Install Open-Shell
The first step is to download and install Open-Shell, a free tool that allows you to customize the Start Menu.
Open-Shell is a popular software that provides various customization options. After downloading, follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your Windows 11 system.
Step 2: Open Open-Shell Menu Settings
Next, you need to open the Open-Shell Menu Settings to start customizing your Start Menu.
You can do this by searching for "Open-Shell Menu Settings" in the Start Menu search bar. Click on the application to open it.
Step 3: Select the Windows 10 Style
In the settings, select the option to use the Windows 10 Start Menu style.
This option usually appears in the "Start Menu Style" tab. Choose the Windows 10 style and click "OK" to apply the changes.
Step 4: Customize Additional Settings
Now, customize additional settings to further refine the look of your Start Menu.
You can tweak things like the menu’s transparency, size, and color. Play around with these settings until you’re happy with the appearance.
Step 5: Apply Changes and Restart
Finally, apply the changes and restart your computer to see the new Start Menu.
Restarting ensures that all changes take effect properly. Once your computer restarts, you should see a Start Menu that closely resembles the one from Windows 10.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 Start Menu should look like the one from Windows 10. Enjoy the familiarity and ease of navigation!
Tips for Making Your Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10
- Backup Your Settings: Before making changes, always backup your current settings so you can revert if needed.
- Use Dark Mode: Dark mode can make the Start Menu look more sleek and modern.
- Experiment with Fonts: Changing the font can add a personal touch and make it easier to read.
- Use High-Quality Icons: Upgrade your icons to higher quality versions for a more polished look.
- Keep It Simple: Avoid over-customization which can make the Start Menu look cluttered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to the original Windows 11 Start Menu?
Yes, you can easily revert back by uninstalling Open-Shell or resetting its settings.
Is Open-Shell safe to use?
Yes, Open-Shell is widely used and trusted by many users for customizing their Start Menu.
Will these changes affect my system performance?
No, customizing the Start Menu with Open-Shell generally does not affect system performance.
Can I use other customization tools?
Yes, there are other tools like StartIsBack and Start11 that offer similar customization options.
Do I need to pay for Open-Shell?
No, Open-Shell is free to use.
Summary
- Download and install Open-Shell.
- Open Open-Shell Menu Settings.
- Select the Windows 10 style.
- Customize additional settings.
- Apply changes and restart.
Conclusion
Changing the Windows 11 Start Menu to look like the one from Windows 10 is easier than you might think. By using tools like Open-Shell, you can bring back the familiar layout and design that you’re comfortable with. This guide has walked you through the steps to achieve this transformation, ensuring you can enjoy a more user-friendly and nostalgic interface.
Remember, while the new Windows 11 design offers some neat features and aesthetics, having the option to switch back to a known and loved layout can make your computing experience much more enjoyable. Feel free to explore other customization options and make your Start Menu truly yours.
For further reading, you might want to explore other customization tools or even delve into more advanced tweaks for Windows 11. Enjoy your new, old Start Menu!
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.