Windows 11 brings a fresh, modern look to the operating system, but like any Windows version, its true beauty lies in its customizability. Whether you want to tweak the visual appeal, improve functionality, or make your PC feel like it’s truly yours, customizing the Windows 11 user interface (UI) is the way to go. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make your Windows 11 UI stand out, with step-by-step instructions, personal insights, and some recommended tools that will help you get the most out of your customization journey.
1. Personalize the Start Menu and Taskbar
The Start Menu and Taskbar are the most prominent elements of the Windows 11 UI, and they’re both highly customizable.
Start Menu Customization
Windows 11 introduces a centered Start Menu by default, which gives the desktop a cleaner, more modern look. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, you can easily move the Start Menu to the left side of the screen. Here’s how:
- Right-click on the Taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
- Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors.
- Change the Taskbar alignment to Left.
Additionally, you can customize the Start Menu by pinning and unpinning apps, organizing them into groups, and removing suggested content. Right-click any app icon in the Start Menu to pin or unpin it, and drag icons to rearrange them.
Taskbar Customization
The Taskbar in Windows 11 is more streamlined, but it still allows for significant customization. You can adjust the size of the icons, choose which system icons appear, and even enable or disable features like the News and Interests widget.
For those who prefer a minimalist approach, you can hide the Taskbar entirely until you hover over the bottom of the screen. To do this:
- Right-click the Taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
- Under Taskbar behaviors, check the box for Automatically hide the taskbar.
If you want to add more functionality, you can also install third-party apps like Winstep Nexus or Start11, which provide advanced customization options for both the Start Menu and Taskbar.
2. Change the System Theme and Colors
Windows 11’s visual overhaul includes new themes and color schemes that you can customize to suit your preferences.
Light vs. Dark Mode
One of the simplest ways to change the look and feel of your Windows 11 UI is by switching between Light and Dark Mode. Dark Mode is particularly popular for reducing eye strain and giving your desktop a sleek, modern appearance. To switch modes:
- Open Settings and navigate to Personalization.
- Select Colors and choose between Light or Dark under Choose your mode.
Custom Colors and Accent Colors
Beyond the basic Light and Dark Modes, you can further personalize your UI with custom colors. Windows 11 allows you to pick a custom accent color, which is used in various UI elements like window borders, Start Menu tiles, and more.
To select a custom color:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
- Under Accent color, you can either choose one of the preset colors or click Custom color to select a color that perfectly matches your style.
For a cohesive look, you might want to enable the Show accent color on Start and taskbar option, which applies your chosen color to these key UI elements.
3. Customize the Desktop Wallpaper and Lock Screen
Your desktop wallpaper and lock screen are two of the most visible parts of your UI, and changing them is one of the quickest ways to personalize your experience.
Desktop Wallpaper
Windows 11 comes with a collection of new wallpapers that highlight the system’s fresh design language, but you’re not limited to these. You can use any image as your desktop background, whether it’s a personal photo, a digital artwork, or a downloaded wallpaper from the web.
To change your wallpaper:
- Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
- Choose Background and select a new wallpaper from the available options, or click Browse to find an image on your PC.
For a dynamic experience, you can also set a slideshow of images as your background, which will cycle through your chosen pictures at regular intervals.
Lock Screen
The lock screen is another area where you can express your style. You can choose a different image or slideshow for your lock screen, or even use Windows Spotlight, which automatically updates your lock screen with stunning images from around the world.
To customize the lock screen:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
- Under Background, choose between Picture, Slideshow, or Windows Spotlight.
4. Fine-Tune the File Explorer Appearance
File Explorer is where you interact with your files and folders, so making it look and work the way you want can greatly enhance your overall experience.
Folder Options and Layout
Windows 11’s File Explorer includes several new icons and a refreshed layout. You can customize how files are displayed by adjusting the layout view (e.g., list, details, tiles) or by enabling features like the Preview Pane, which shows a thumbnail of the selected file.
To customize the File Explorer layout:
- Open File Explorer and click on the View tab.
- Choose your preferred layout (e.g., Details, Tiles, List, etc.).
- To enable the Preview Pane, click Show and then select Preview pane.
Custom Folder Icons
For even more customization, you can change the icons of individual folders to better represent their contents. To do this:
- Right-click on a folder and select Properties.
- Go to the Customize tab and click on Change Icon.
- Choose an icon from the default options, or click Browse to select a custom icon file from your PC.
5. Install Third-Party Customization Tools
If you’re looking to take your Windows 11 UI customization to the next level, there are several third-party tools available that can give you even more control over your system’s appearance and functionality.
Rainmeter
Rainmeter is a popular tool for creating custom desktop widgets and visualizers. With Rainmeter, you can add clocks, weather widgets, system monitors, and more, all designed to match your personal style.
WindowBlinds
WindowBlinds is another powerful tool that allows you to change the appearance of window borders, taskbars, and other UI elements with custom themes and skins. It offers an extensive library of themes, or you can create your own.
Nexus Dock
Nexus Dock is a free dock customization tool that adds a Mac-like dock to your Windows desktop. It’s highly customizable and allows you to add your favorite apps, folders, and shortcuts for quick access.
Conclusion
Customizing your Windows 11 UI is not just about aesthetics—it’s about making your PC truly yours. By personalizing the Start Menu, Taskbar, theme, wallpaper, and File Explorer, and by using third-party tools to further refine your setup, you can create a desktop environment that’s both functional and visually appealing. The key is to experiment with different settings and tools until you find the perfect combination that suits your workflow and style.
Whether you’re a casual user who wants a more enjoyable daily experience or a power user looking to optimize every aspect of your interface, Windows 11 offers plenty of opportunities for customization. So, start tweaking your settings today and make your PC look and feel as unique as you are.