Many Windows 11 users find the new start menu design less familiar and sometimes less functional compared to Windows 10. If you prefer the classic, more straightforward look of Windows 10’s start menu, this guide will walk you through the steps to revert or customize your Windows 11 start menu to resemble Windows 10. This process involves using built-in settings, third-party tools, and some customization tricks to achieve a familiar interface without needing advanced technical skills. Before you begin, ensure your Windows 11 is up to date and back up your important data in case something doesn’t go as planned.
What You’ll Need
- A Windows 11 PC with administrator access
- Internet connection to download third-party tools (if necessary)
- Optional: a backup of your system or create a restore point (recommended)
Step-by-Step
- Backup Your System or Create a Restore Point
Before making significant changes, it’s wise to create a system restore point. You can do this by searching for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu, opening the System Properties, and clicking “Create” under the System Protection tab. Name your restore point and save it. This allows you to revert if anything goes wrong. - Disable Windows 11’s New Start Menu
Windows 11’s start menu is integrated into the taskbar and tied to the OS. To make it look like Windows 10, you will need to disable some of its newer features. Right-click on the taskbar and select “Taskbar settings.” Under “Taskbar behaviors,” disable “Show recent apps” and “Show recommended”. This clears clutter and makes the start menu cleaner, similar to Windows 10. - Use a Third-Party Tool for Classic Start Menu
To fully mimic Windows 10’s start menu, you’ll need a third-party application. Classic Shell (now Open-Shell) is a popular, free tool that allows extensive customization of the start menu. Download Open-Shell from its official GitHub page and install it. - Configure Open-Shell for Windows 10 Look
Once installed, launch Open-Shell Menu Settings. Under the “Start Menu Style” tab, select “Windows 7 style” or “Classic style,” which closely resembles Windows 10. Customize the skin, icons, and layout to match Windows 10’s appearance. You can also add or remove features like the search bar and user tiles to match your preferences. - Adjust Taskbar Settings
Right-click on the taskbar and choose “Taskbar settings.” Set the taskbar alignment to the left (if not already) to mirror Windows 10’s default. Turn off “Use small taskbar buttons” for a more familiar size. You may also want to unpin or pin apps to the taskbar to replicate your Windows 10 setup. - Customize Icons and Layout
In Open-Shell, you can modify the start menu’s appearance further. Choose a Windows 10-inspired skin, adjust the menu size, and configure the list of apps to display. You can also add a custom user tile or logo to personalize your start menu. - Optional: Use Additional Customizations
If you want even more Windows 10 features, consider using tools like StartIsBack or Start11, which are paid but offer more refined customization options. Install your preferred tool and follow its configuration steps to achieve a Windows 10 look and feel. - Final Checks and Tweaks
After applying all changes, restart your PC or log out and back in. Review your start menu and taskbar. Make additional adjustments in Open-Shell or your chosen customization tool until satisfied with the Windows 10 appearance.
Common Mistakes
- Not backing up your system before making changes, risking difficulty reverting if issues arise.
- Ignoring the importance of creating a restore point, which can save time if the customizations cause problems.
- Over-customizing with too many third-party tools, which can cause system instability or conflicts.
- Neglecting to update or properly configure the third-party start menu tools, resulting in a less authentic look.
- Forgetting to restart or log out after applying changes, which can prevent customizations from taking effect.
Tips
- Use reputable and well-reviewed tools like Open-Shell or StartIsBack to avoid security risks.
- Take your time customizing the start menu to match your preferences, including icons, layout, and functionalities.
- Regularly check for updates to third-party tools to ensure compatibility with Windows 11 updates.
- If you want a quick revert, uninstall the third-party customization tools and reset your taskbar settings.
- Explore online tutorials and forums for additional tips and customizations shared by other users.
Troubleshooting
If your Windows 11 start menu doesn’t look like Windows 10 after following these steps, try the following solutions:
- Restart your PC: Sometimes, changes take effect only after a restart.
- Reinstall or update third-party tools: Ensure you have the latest version compatible with Windows 11.
- Reset customization settings: Use the reset option within Open-Shell or your chosen tool to revert to default and reapply the settings carefully.
- Check for Windows updates: Ensure your system is fully updated, as compatibility issues can cause customization problems.
- Disable conflicting software: Other customization tools or system tweaks might interfere; disable or uninstall them temporarily.
If problems persist, consider restoring your system to the restore point you created earlier or seek help from online Windows forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I completely replace the Windows 11 start menu with Windows 10?
While you can’t fully replace the built-in start menu, using third-party tools like Open-Shell can make it look and function very similarly to Windows 10’s start menu.
2. Will these customizations affect my system’s performance?
Most customization tools are lightweight, but poorly configured or incompatible software can slow down your system. Always use reputable tools and keep your system updated.
3. Is it safe to use third-party start menu programs?
Yes, if you download from trusted sources like official GitHub repositories or well-known software developers. Avoid unknown sources to prevent malware risks.
4. Can I revert back to the default Windows 11 start menu easily?
Yes, uninstall or disable the third-party tools and reset your taskbar settings. Restoring your system from a restore point can also revert all customizations.
5. Will these changes stay after Windows updates?
It depends. Major updates may overwrite some customizations, so check and reapply settings if necessary after updates.
6. Are there any paid options for better Windows 10-like start menus?
Yes, tools like StartIsBack and Start11 offer more polished and customizable Windows 10-like start menus with dedicated support, but they require a purchase.
By following this guide, you can enjoy a Windows 10-style start menu on your Windows 11 PC, making your experience more familiar and comfortable. Remember to proceed with caution, back up your system, and experiment gradually to achieve the best results.
Related
- How to Make Startup Faster in Windows 11 Tips for a Speed Boost
- How To Make Start Menu Full Screen In Windows 10
- How to Make SSD Your Main Drive in Windows 11