Windows 11 To 10: 9 Steps To Revert The Look

Are you a Windows 10 enthusiast who's recently taken the plunge into Windows 11? Or perhaps you've got a new machine that's running the latest OS, but you're missing the familiar feel of your old setup? Well, you're not alone! Many users find the transition to Windows 11's redesigned interface a bit jarring. But don't worry, guys! You can totally bring back that Windows 10 vibe to your Windows 11 experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through 9 easy ways to make Windows 11 look and feel just like your beloved Windows 10, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition.

Why Revert to a Windows 10 Look in Windows 11?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly touch on why you might want to do this. Change can be tough, and Windows 11 brought some pretty significant visual overhauls. The centered taskbar, the revamped Start menu, and the new icons – they're all part of Microsoft's vision for the future, but they're not everyone's cup of tea. Maybe you're more productive with the Windows 10 layout, or perhaps you simply prefer the older aesthetic. Whatever your reason, customizing your OS to suit your preferences is a key part of making your computer truly yours. It’s about making your digital space feel comfortable and efficient, so you can focus on what matters most – whether that's work, creativity, or just kicking back and relaxing. Plus, let's be honest, sometimes the familiar is just plain comforting. For those who have spent years navigating Windows 10, switching to Windows 11 can feel like learning a whole new language. By reverting to a Windows 10-like appearance, you can ease the transition and maintain your workflow without unnecessary hiccups. It's all about personal preference and finding the balance between embracing new technology and staying true to what works for you. The beauty of Windows is its customizability, and this guide is your roadmap to tailoring Windows 11 to your exact needs.

1. Bring Back the Left-Aligned Start Menu

The centered Start menu is arguably the most noticeable change in Windows 11. For long-time Windows users, the Start button on the left has been a constant for decades. Shifting it to the center can feel disorienting, disrupting muscle memory and slowing down your workflow. Fortunately, Microsoft has included a simple setting to move the Start button and taskbar icons back to the left. This single tweak can make a world of difference in how familiar Windows 11 feels. This adjustment is crucial for those who value efficiency and speed in their daily computer use. Having the Start menu in the left corner allows for quick, almost subconscious access, saving precious seconds throughout the day. Moreover, aligning the Start menu to the left creates a visual anchor point, making it easier to locate and click, especially during moments of multitasking or when dealing with multiple open windows. It's a small change, but it has a significant impact on the overall user experience. By moving the Start menu back to its traditional position, you're not just changing an aesthetic element; you're optimizing your workflow and enhancing your productivity. This is the first step in reclaiming that Windows 10 feeling and making Windows 11 your own.

To move the Start menu back to the left:

1. Right-click on the Taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
2. Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors.
3. Find Taskbar alignment and change the dropdown from Center to Left.

2. Restore the Windows 10 Start Menu (Sort Of)

While you can't get the exact Windows 10 Start menu back in Windows 11 without third-party software, you can achieve a similar experience by customizing the pinned apps and removing the recommended section. Windows 11's Start menu prioritizes pinned apps and a 'Recommended' section, showcasing recently opened files and installed applications. This new approach can feel cluttered and less organized compared to the live tiles and app list of Windows 10. However, with a little customization, you can streamline the Windows 11 Start menu to resemble its predecessor. By carefully selecting and pinning your most frequently used applications, and decluttering the 'Recommended' section, you can create a cleaner, more focused Start menu that mimics the efficiency of Windows 10. This involves strategic pruning and organization, ensuring that only the essential apps are readily accessible. It's about crafting a Start menu that serves your specific needs, eliminating distractions and maximizing your productivity. Furthermore, this customization allows you to maintain a sense of control over your digital environment, preventing unnecessary clutter and fostering a more streamlined workflow. While it may not be a perfect replica of the Windows 10 Start menu, this approach allows you to recapture the essence of its functionality within the framework of Windows 11.

Here's how to make the Windows 11 Start menu more like Windows 10:

1. Unpin all the default pinned apps you don't use by right-clicking on them and selecting Unpin from Start.
2. Pin your frequently used apps by right-clicking on them (from the app list or desktop) and selecting Pin to Start.
3. Go to Settings > Personalization > Start and turn off Show recently added apps and Show recently opened items.

3. Use Third-Party Software for a Classic Start Menu

If you're truly missing the Windows 10 Start menu, third-party software is your best bet. Several applications are designed to bring back the classic Start menu experience to Windows 11. These tools offer a high degree of customization, allowing you to recreate the Windows 10 Start menu almost perfectly, complete with live tiles and familiar layouts. While Windows 11 offers some customization options for the Start menu, it doesn't provide the level of control that many users desire. Third-party software fills this gap, providing a powerful solution for those who prioritize familiarity and functionality. These applications not only restore the classic Start menu but also offer additional features and customization options that enhance the overall user experience. They empower you to tailor your Start menu to your exact preferences, creating a digital workspace that feels both comfortable and efficient. By utilizing third-party software, you can bridge the gap between Windows 10 and Windows 11, maintaining a familiar workflow while still benefiting from the performance improvements and security updates of the latest operating system. It's a practical solution for users who value both tradition and innovation.

Some popular options include:

• Start11: A popular choice known for its extensive customization options and ability to closely mimic the Windows 10 Start menu.
• Open-Shell-Menu: A free and open-source option that provides a classic Start menu style with various customization options.
• StartAllBack: Another paid option that not only brings back the classic Start menu but also restores the Windows 10 taskbar and File Explorer look.

4. Revert to the Windows 10 Taskbar (with Limitations)

Windows 11's taskbar has some significant differences compared to Windows 10. The centered icons and the removal of some features, like the ability to drag files onto taskbar icons, can be frustrating for users accustomed to the Windows 10 taskbar. While Windows 11 doesn't offer a direct way to revert to the Windows 10 taskbar, you can regain some of its functionality and appearance through customization and third-party tools. The key is to understand the limitations of the built-in options and leverage third-party solutions to bridge the gap. By combining the available customization options with the power of specialized software, you can create a taskbar experience that closely resembles Windows 10, mitigating the disruption caused by the changes in Windows 11. It's about striking a balance between adapting to the new OS and preserving the functionality that is essential to your workflow. The taskbar is a central hub for navigation and multitasking, and restoring its familiar behavior can significantly improve your overall user experience.

Here's what you can do:

• Move Taskbar Icons to the Left: As mentioned earlier, this is a simple but effective way to make the taskbar feel more like Windows 10.
• Use Third-Party Software: Tools like StartAllBack can restore the Windows 10 taskbar style and functionality.

5. Change the Icon Theme

Windows 11 features a new icon design that's more modern and minimalist. However, if you prefer the classic Windows 10 icons, you can change them back using third-party icon packs or manual registry edits. The visual appeal of icons plays a significant role in the overall user experience. For those accustomed to the Windows 10 icons, the new design in Windows 11 can feel foreign and even slightly jarring. Reverting to the classic icon theme can instantly bring a sense of familiarity and comfort. This can be achieved through various methods, ranging from simple icon pack installations to more advanced registry modifications. The key is to find a method that suits your technical skill level and comfort zone. By customizing the icon theme, you can personalize the visual landscape of your operating system, creating a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment. This seemingly small change can have a surprisingly large impact on how you perceive and interact with Windows 11.

Note: Manually editing the registry can be risky if not done correctly. It's recommended to back up your registry before making any changes.

6. Modify File Explorer to Resemble Windows 10

File Explorer in Windows 11 has a simplified command bar at the top, replacing the ribbon interface from Windows 10. While the new design aims for a cleaner look, some users miss the extensive options available in the ribbon. Customizing File Explorer to resemble Windows 10 involves both visual tweaks and functional adjustments. The goal is to strike a balance between the streamlined aesthetics of Windows 11 and the comprehensive functionality of Windows 10. This can be achieved through a combination of third-party tools and built-in settings, allowing you to tailor File Explorer to your specific needs and preferences. By carefully selecting the right modifications, you can create a file management system that is both efficient and familiar, bridging the gap between the old and the new. It's about optimizing your workflow and ensuring that File Explorer remains a powerful tool in your digital arsenal. This customization allows you to maintain a sense of control over your files and folders, navigating your system with ease and confidence.

Here are a few ways to modify File Explorer:

• Use Third-Party Software: Tools like StartAllBack can restore the Windows 10 File Explorer look, including the ribbon.
• Customize the Quick Access Toolbar: Add frequently used commands to the Quick Access Toolbar for faster access.

7. Disable Rounded Corners (Partially)

Rounded corners are a prominent design element in Windows 11, visible in window borders, menus, and dialog boxes. While they contribute to a softer, more modern aesthetic, some users prefer the sharp corners of Windows 10. Unfortunately, Windows 11 doesn't offer a native option to completely disable rounded corners. However, you can partially revert to the square look by using third-party applications or making some registry tweaks. The desire to disable rounded corners often stems from a preference for a more traditional, utilitarian aesthetic. Sharp corners can convey a sense of precision and efficiency, while rounded corners are often associated with a more relaxed and modern feel. The choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference and how you want your operating system to look and feel. By exploring the available customization options, you can tailor the visual appearance of Windows 11 to align with your individual taste, creating a digital environment that is both comfortable and visually appealing.

Note: As with registry edits, proceed with caution and back up your registry before making changes.

8. Change the Default Font

Windows 11 uses a new default font called Segoe UI Variable, which is slightly different from the Segoe UI font used in Windows 10. If you prefer the older font, you can change the system font back to Segoe UI using a registry edit. Font selection plays a crucial role in the overall readability and visual appeal of your operating system. For those who have grown accustomed to the Segoe UI font in Windows 10, the subtle changes in Segoe UI Variable in Windows 11 can be noticeable and even slightly disruptive. Reverting to the classic font can restore a sense of familiarity and improve readability for some users. This customization is a simple yet effective way to personalize your Windows 11 experience, ensuring that the text on your screen is both clear and aesthetically pleasing. It's about optimizing your visual comfort and creating a digital environment that is conducive to productivity and enjoyment. By tailoring the font to your preferences, you can enhance your overall user experience and make Windows 11 feel more like your own.

9. Customize Sounds

Windows 11 has a new set of system sounds that are different from Windows 10. If you miss the classic Windows 10 sounds, you can easily bring them back by changing the sound scheme in the Sound settings. Audio cues are an integral part of the user experience, providing feedback and alerts that enhance our interaction with the operating system. For those who have grown accustomed to the familiar sounds of Windows 10, the new sound scheme in Windows 11 can feel unfamiliar and even slightly jarring. Reverting to the classic sounds can instantly bring a sense of comfort and familiarity, making the transition to the new operating system smoother and more enjoyable. This simple customization allows you to personalize your audio environment, ensuring that the sounds you hear are both informative and aesthetically pleasing. It's about creating a sensory experience that aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall user experience. By tailoring the sounds of Windows 11, you can make the operating system feel more like your own and create a digital environment that is both comfortable and efficient.

Conclusion

While Windows 11 brings a fresh look and new features, it's understandable if you prefer the familiar interface of Windows 10. By following these 9 easy ways, you can customize Windows 11 to look and feel more like its predecessor. Whether you choose to make a few minor tweaks or completely overhaul the appearance, the goal is to create a computing experience that suits your individual needs and preferences. Remember, your computer should be a reflection of your personal style and workflow, so don't hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you. Customization is key to making any operating system your own, and Windows 11 offers a wide range of options to tailor the experience to your liking. So go ahead, make Windows 11 feel like home again!