In the realm of Windows customization, many users yearn for the nostalgic aesthetics of Windows 10 while navigating the modern interface of Windows 11. While third-party tools like Windhawk and Start11 are often recommended, not everyone is keen on adding more software to their systems. For those looking to evoke the classic look of their previous operating system using only built-in settings, there are a few adjustments that can be made.
Start menu alignment
Reposition it to the left corner
One of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11 is the centered Start menu. To bring back the familiar left-aligned layout, users can easily adjust this setting without any additional software. By navigating to Settings -> Personalization -> Taskbar -> Taskbar behaviors, the alignment can be switched from center to left. This simple tweak can evoke the Windows 10 experience, especially on larger monitors where the centered option may feel less intuitive.
Bring back the classic File Explorer
Show Windows 10 navigation and context menus
Another way to recapture the essence of Windows 10 is by restoring the classic File Explorer interface. Users can achieve this by pressing the Windows key and searching for Windows Tools. Once opened, clicking on Home or This PC will switch to the classic navigation menu. Although this method does not permanently retain the classic layout after restarting File Explorer, it can be easily accessed by pinning the Windows Tools entry to the taskbar for quick retrieval.
Return app labels
Show app labels on the taskbar
In a recent update, Microsoft reinstated the option to display app labels on the taskbar, a feature reminiscent of Windows 10. Users can enable this by going to Settings -> Personalization -> Taskbar -> Taskbar behaviors and selecting Never next to the “Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels” option. While this may take up more space, it can enhance usability for those who prefer clear labels over grouped icons.
Always show scrollbars
An irritating behavior that Windows 10 got right
Windows 11’s tendency to hide scrollbars until hovered over can be frustrating. Fortunately, users can ensure scrollbars are always visible by navigating to Settings -> Accessibility -> Visual Effects and toggling on the “Always show scrollbars” option. This small adjustment can significantly improve the user experience, particularly on laptops.
Change the color scheme
Important for returning the Windows 10 aesthetic
To further enhance the nostalgic feel, users can modify the color scheme to mimic Windows 10. By going to Settings -> Personalization -> Colors, selecting Custom for “Choose your mode,” and opting for Dark for “Choose your Windows mode,” one can create a more familiar visual environment. Enabling accent colors for the Start menu and taskbar can also help evoke the classic aesthetic.
Desktop icons
Don’t forget the legacy desktop icons
Lastly, adding legacy desktop icons such as This PC and Control Panel can provide a finishing touch to the Windows 11 interface. Users can do this by navigating to Settings -> Personalization -> Themes and clicking on Desktop icon settings. Selecting the desired icons and confirming with OK will restore these familiar elements to the desktop.
A Windows 10-like experience with no extra software
While achieving a complete Windows 10 replica within Windows 11 using only native settings is challenging, these adjustments can help bridge the gap. For those seeking a more authentic Windows 10 experience, third-party tools remain the more effective option. However, experimenting with built-in settings can be a rewarding endeavor, revealing the potential for personalization within the constraints of the modern interface.
