Ah, Windows 10—the minimalist operating system that held a special place in our hearts between bizarre ribbon interfaces, live tiles, and Cortana's final phase-outs. If you're reading this article, chances are you're lamenting the look and feel of Windows 10, an operating system Microsoft is gearing up to phase out come October 2025.
Windows 11 undoubtedly brings its share of advancements—enhanced visuals, Snap Layouts, and revamped system apps are a few—but nostalgia has a funny way of tugging at our digital preferences. While downgrading back to Windows 10 is a doomed endeavor fraught with security and compatibility hiccups, you can recreate that classic Windows 10 ambiance on your modern Windows 11 machine. Let's dive deep into how to make that happen.
Before diving into customization, back up your current system configuration, because nothing's worse than scrambling to reverse changes gone awry.
Here's how to create a system restore point:
Time to roll up your sleeves and craft your perfect retro-modern interface. Let us know your experiences and share any tips on WindowsForum.com!
Source: SlashGear 5 Ways To Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10 - SlashGear
Windows 11 undoubtedly brings its share of advancements—enhanced visuals, Snap Layouts, and revamped system apps are a few—but nostalgia has a funny way of tugging at our digital preferences. While downgrading back to Windows 10 is a doomed endeavor fraught with security and compatibility hiccups, you can recreate that classic Windows 10 ambiance on your modern Windows 11 machine. Let's dive deep into how to make that happen.
Preliminary Steps: Protect and Restore
Before diving into customization, back up your current system configuration, because nothing's worse than scrambling to reverse changes gone awry.Here's how to create a system restore point:
- Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu.
- In the dialog, ensure “Protection” is enabled. If not:
- Press Configure > Turn on system protection.
- Allocate a small percentage of disk space for restore points.
- Hit Create, name it accordingly, and confirm once prompted.
- To recover these settings later, search for “Recovery” via the Control Panel, open System Restore, and follow the prompts to return to your previous configuration.
Method 1: Use Built-In Windows 11 Personalization Settings
Windows 11, while radically redesigned, still offers some degree of personalization out of the box. The following tweaks mimic core elements of Windows 10:1. Taskbar Adjustments
- Navigate Settings: Open the Settings app and go to Personalization > Taskbar.
- Disable Extra Icons:
- Turn off Task view and Widgets—unnecessary clutter absent in Windows 10.
- Set Taskbar Alignment:
- Under Taskbar behaviors, align your icons to the Left, similar to Windows 10.
- Adjust Taskbar Buttons:
- Change “Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels” to Never for the classic, labeled button style.
2. Restore the Classic Start Menu Folders
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Start > Folders.
- Activate default Windows 10 items like Settings, Pictures, and Documents to populate the Start menu footer.
3. Fine-Tune Colors and Wallpaper
- Colors:
- Visit Personalization > Colors and set your accent color.
- Enable Show accent color on Start and taskbar for personalized flair.
- Wallpaper:
- Download the original Windows 10 wallpaper (search online to grab it from a trusted source like the Internet Archive).
- Apply it via Settings > Personalization > Background.
Method 2: Stardock Start11 (Paid Option)
While Microsoft's built-in options are nice, there's a limit to how far you can push them. Enter Stardock Start11, a paid software tool ($9.99) that revives Windows 10 visuals, including sharper Start menus, taskbar customizations, and even previously missing functionalities.How to Install and Use Start11:
- Head to the Stardock Start11 website and download the app.
- Upon installing:
- Start Menu Settings:
- Use “Windows 10” as your preferred style.
- Disable rounded corners under Customize menu visual appearance for that edgy 2015 aesthetic.
- Taskbar Settings:
- Toggle Taskbar options, ensuring button behavior mimics Windows 10.
- Experiment! Start11 lets you tweak additional elements like transparency, button appearance, and even context menus.
Method 3: ExplorerPatcher—A Free Open-Source Alternative
Don't want to shell out for Start11? Meet ExplorerPatcher, the Robin Hood of UI overhauls—free and loaded with features that rival premium tools.Steps to Install and Customize ExplorerPatcher:
- Download the Setup: Grab the installer (
ep_setup.exe) from its GitHub page. - Run It: The necessary files will auto-download, and Explorer will restart.
- Dive into the customization:
- Taskbar: Switch to the Windows 10 (ExplorerPatcher) style.
- Start Menu: Set to Windows 10 under Start menu settings.
- File Explorer: Toggle the Ribbon UI for the classic Windows 10 menu structure.
- System Tray: Turn off the rounded Control Center button to revert to the compact, sharp-cornered tooltips of yore.
Method 4: StartAllBack—Styles for Window 7, 8, and Yes, Windows 10
StartAllBack is another paid app aimed squarely at fans of legacy Windows UIs. While it primarily focuses on reviving Windows 7 aesthetics, its “Kinda 10” mode is excellent for bringing modern touches of Windows 10 to your Windows 11 PC.Key Features:
- Explorer Refinement: Enable the Win10 Ribbon UI for a more familiar file menu structure.
- System Tray Mods: Switch tray flyovers from round-modern to sharp-mid-2010s aesthetics.
- Taskbar Overhaul: Customize button layouts and add custom start menu icons—yes, the Windows 10 icon can return.
Method 5: Windhawk—A Modder’s Playground
For a modular and highly customizable experience, Windhawk, an open-source modding tool, reigns supreme. Use it to install scripts that tweak everything from taskbar height to notification styles.Mods Worth Trying on Windhawk:
- Windows 11 Start Menu Styler: Brings back Windows 10's rigid Start layout.
- Taskbar Height and Icon Size: Allows resizing to mimic Windows 10 proportions.
- Disable Rounded Corners: For sharper windows that scream productivity.
- Vertical Taskbar (Optional): Add a left-corner-docked taskbar for something nostalgic yet unique.
Which Option Suits You Best?
- DIY Minimalist Approach (Built-in Settings): Ideal if you're a casual user with limited patience for third-party apps.
- Start11: Perfect for those ready to pay for polished, hassle-free adaptability.
- ExplorerPatcher: The ultimate solution for tinkerers who appreciate free, open-source customization.
- StartAllBack: A middle-ground compromise between free-spirited Windhawk and the simplicity of Start11.
- Windhawk Mods: Tailor-made for tech-savvy individuals unafraid to experiment.
Final Thoughts
Transforming Windows 11 into an almost exact replica of Windows 10 isn't just about aesthetic preferences; it's about comfort, familiarity, and maintaining a productive workflow. Just be sure to carefully evaluate your approach depending on your comfort with tools, tweakability, and whether you're willing to shell out a few bucks. With personalization back in focus, you'll rekindle the Windows 10 spark without looking back, even as Microsoft paves the road toward Windows 12!Time to roll up your sleeves and craft your perfect retro-modern interface. Let us know your experiences and share any tips on WindowsForum.com!
Source: SlashGear 5 Ways To Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10 - SlashGear
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