Microsoft has recently unveiled a long-awaited feature that will introduce a battery percentage icon to the taskbar of Windows 11. Currently in testing with Windows Insiders, the timeline for its general release remains uncertain. For users eager to monitor their battery levels without delay, there are alternative applications available that provide this functionality immediately. This is particularly beneficial for those utilizing Windows 10 or earlier versions of Windows 11, as they may not receive this feature at all.
Using Battery Bar to Show Battery Percentage
One notable application that has been around for some time is Battery Bar. While primarily designed for older Windows versions, it offers flexibility by allowing users to position the battery icon and percentage anywhere on their screen. Here’s a simple guide to set it up:
- Visit the Battery Bar website and click the Download button to obtain the free version of the app.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts until you reach the Choose components page.
- For Windows 11 users, the standard installation includes a toolbar on the taskbar, which is not supported. Therefore, do the following:
- Uncheck the box labeled BatteryBar Toolbar (recommended).
- Check the box for BatteryBar Floating Toolbar. The two sub-boxes will be automatically selected and should remain that way.
- Click Next to complete the installation.
- Restart your computer, and you should see the BatteryBar indicator on your screen. By default, it shows the estimated time remaining, but you can click it to display the battery percentage instead.
- Feel free to move the floating indicator anywhere on the screen and resize it to your preference.
For those on Windows 10, you can use the default installation settings, and BatteryBar will reside on your taskbar, functioning similarly. However, resizing and repositioning options are limited unless you opt for the floating version.
Other Options Exist
Several other applications can also display the battery percentage continuously. One such option available on the Microsoft Store is Battery Percentage Icon. Although our testing revealed some challenges with its startup on Windows 11, it does offer customization features for battery indicator colors at various levels and the ability to set battery warnings—capabilities not available in the free version of BatteryBar.
For users unwilling to wait for Microsoft to implement the battery percentage icon, these third-party solutions provide timely alternatives. The absence of this feature in Windows has been a long-standing concern, and it is encouraging to see developers stepping in to fill the gap.
