Windows 11 has been under scrutiny for its modern context menu, which is reportedly slower than its predecessor in Windows 10. Users, particularly those with lower-end PCs, have found that enabling extensions such as “Edit with Clipchamp,” “Edit with Notepad,” and “Ask Copilot” can lead to frustrating delays. These extensions can take a few seconds to load, often resulting in misclicks as the menu adjusts itself. Microsoft has acknowledged these performance issues and is actively working on solutions.
While complaints regarding Windows 11’s sluggishness are not new, they have gained traction on social media, prompting a response from Microsoft. In March 2026, the company announced plans for a significant update aimed at revitalizing Windows 11, with CEO Satya Nadella emphasizing a return to core functionalities to regain user trust.
The right-click menu, a fundamental aspect of the Windows experience, has become a focal point for improvement. Although the modern context menu is not without merit, it has failed to address the clutter issue seen in earlier versions of Windows. Instead, it has introduced a delay in the right-click experience, where some options appear instantly while others lag behind.
For instance, when right-clicking an image file, the context menu may pop up quickly on high-spec machines, yet it often continues to load additional options, causing a shift in cursor position. This can lead to accidental clicks on unintended items, particularly for users who tend to click swiftly.
In a recent post on X, Microsoft confirmed that the delays are due to late-loading extensions and assured users that it is working on enhancements to expedite the loading process and reduce visual clutter, especially for power users.
Microsoft begins testing a simple context menu in Windows 11
Progress is already visible in preview builds, where the right-click menu has been streamlined to occupy less screen space. A new nested menu titled “Manage file” has been introduced, designed to consolidate file-related operations such as copying paths, setting desktop backgrounds, and compressing files into ZIP format. While “Manage file” is a temporary label, it signifies a shift towards a more organized menu structure.
Initial tests by Windows Latest indicate that this new nested menu can reduce the overall vertical space of the right-click menu by 25% or more, depending on the number of items included. While this is a notable enhancement, it remains in the testing phase, leaving the timeline for its official rollout uncertain.
Additionally, Microsoft is developing a “configurable” context menu, allowing users to personalize their options by adding or removing items. This feature has been highly requested, as previous customization methods often required third-party applications or scripts, which can pose security risks. It is intriguing to see Microsoft embrace advanced personalization features that were once the domain of external tools.
As these updates unfold, the community is left to ponder how Microsoft might further refine the right-click menu in Windows 11. Feedback and suggestions from users will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of this essential interface.
