So, you want to make those pesky desktop icons on your Windows 10 machine smaller, huh? No problem! It’s easier than you might think. In just a few clicks, you can adjust the size of your desktop icons to better fit your needs. Let’s get started with a step-by-step guide to accomplish this task quickly.
How to Reduce Desktop Icon Size in Windows 10
Follow these steps to shrink the size of those desktop icons and free up some visual space.
Step 1: Right-click on Desktop
First, right-click anywhere on your desktop where there are no icons.
When you right-click on the desktop, a context menu will pop up. This menu gives you a lot of options related to your desktop and its appearance.
Step 2: Hover Over "View"
Next, hover your cursor over the "View" option in the context menu.
By hovering over "View," another submenu will appear that allows you to change the size of the icons and other layout features.
Step 3: Select "Small Icons"
Then, click on "Small icons" in the submenu.
Clicking on "Small icons" immediately changes the size of your desktop icons to a smaller scale, giving you more room on your desktop and a tidier appearance.
After following these steps, your desktop icons will be smaller, freeing up space and making your screen look less cluttered.
Tips for Reducing Desktop Icon Size in Windows 10
- Adjust Icon Spacing: If you still want more space, consider adjusting icon spacing by right-clicking the desktop, choosing "Display settings," and modifying the size of text, apps, and other items.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: You can also hold down the Ctrl key and scroll your mouse wheel to resize desktop icons quickly.
- Auto Arrange Icons: Enable "Auto arrange icons" to keep your icons neatly aligned and save yourself the hassle of manual adjustments.
- Desktop Clean-Up: Periodically clean up your desktop by deleting or moving unused icons. This keeps your workspace tidy and efficient.
- Folder Organization: Organize files into folders instead of cluttering your desktop with individual icons for better visual management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see the "View" option?
Make sure you are right-clicking on an empty space on your desktop, not on an icon or the taskbar.
Can I use custom icon sizes?
Windows 10 only offers three predefined sizes in the View menu, but you can use the Ctrl + scroll wheel method for more granular control.
Will reducing icon size affect their functionality?
No, shrinking the icons only changes their appearance, not their functionality.
Can I revert back to the original icon size?
Yes, just follow the same steps and select "Medium icons" or "Large icons" to revert to your preferred size.
Do these changes affect all user accounts?
No, icon size adjustments are specific to each user account on the computer.
Summary
- Right-click on Desktop.
- Hover Over "View."
- Select "Small Icons."
Conclusion
And there you have it! By following these simple steps, you can easily reduce the size of your desktop icons in Windows 10. This not only helps to declutter your screen but can also make your workspace more visually appealing and organized. Whether you’re looking to create more space for that stunning wallpaper or just prefer smaller icons, adjusting the icon size is a quick fix.
If you found this guide helpful, why not explore other ways to customize your Windows 10 experience? Playing around with settings can lead to a more personalized and efficient setup. Now that you know how to reduce desktop icon size in Windows 10, you’re just a few clicks away from a cleaner, more organized desktop. Happy computing!

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.