How to Make Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11: A General Guide

Hey there, Windows 11 users! Have you ever found yourself struggling with a cluttered taskbar with too many icons? Fear not, as we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to make the taskbar smaller in Windows 11. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a more organized and cleaner taskbar in no time.

The Steps to Make Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11

1. Right-click on the taskbar

To begin, simply right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen. This will bring up a menu with various options.

2. Select “Taskbar settings”

From the menu, select “Taskbar settings” to access the customization options for your taskbar.

3. Scroll down to “Taskbar behaviors”

Scroll down the settings menu until you find “Taskbar behaviors.” This section includes various settings to modify your taskbar’s appearance and functions.

4. Toggle on “Use small taskbar buttons”

The first option in the “Taskbar behaviors” section is “Use small taskbar buttons.” Toggle this on to make your taskbar icons smaller and more compact.

5. Turn off “Taskbar corner overflow”

By default, Windows 11 displays additional icons in a corner overflow when the taskbar is too crowded. To make your taskbar smaller, you can turn off this feature by toggling off “Taskbar corner overflow.”

6. Hide taskbar automatically

Another way to make your taskbar smaller is to hide it when it’s not in use. You can do this by toggling on “Automatically hide the taskbar in desktop mode” and “Automatically hide the taskbar in tablet mode.”

7. Turn off “People button”

The “People” button on the taskbar in Windows 11 can add to the clutter. To remove it, simply right-click on the taskbar, select “Taskbar settings,” then toggle off “Show people on the taskbar.”

8. Customize the taskbar buttons

In the “Taskbar behaviors” section, you can also customize which icons and buttons display on the taskbar. Choose which apps you want to display, and which ones to hide.

9. Group taskbar icons

If your taskbar still looks cluttered, you can group similar icons together. Right-click on the taskbar, select “Taskbar settings,” then toggle on “Combine taskbar buttons” and choose which options you prefer.

10. Rearrange the icons

Rearrange the icons on your taskbar to prioritize the most frequently used apps. Simply drag and drop the icons to the desired position on the taskbar.

11. Pin apps to the taskbar

To make accessing your favorite apps even quicker, you can pin them to the taskbar. Right-click on the app, then select “Pin to taskbar.”

12. Use third-party taskbar tools

If none of the built-in options work for you, there are many third-party tools that can help you customize your taskbar further. Some popular options include TaskbarX and FalconX.

Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Streamline your apps

One of the most effective ways to reduce clutter on your taskbar is to streamline the number of apps you use regularly. Try to keep only the apps you use daily or frequently on your taskbar.

2. Use keyboard shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts to launch apps can help you avoid relying on the taskbar and keep your desktop looking clean.

3. Use virtual desktops

Using virtual desktops can help you organize your workspace and minimize clutter on your taskbar.

4. Use a different wallpaper

Customizing your desktop background can help reduce visual clutter and make it easier to use your taskbar.

5. Customize the taskbar color

By customizing the color of your taskbar, you can make it easier to distinguish between different windows and apps.

6. Use a clean-up tool

If you have apps on your taskbar that you no longer need, or files cluttering up your desktop, consider using a clean-up tool to streamline your workspace.

7. Customize your taskbar for different modes

Windows 11 has different modes, including tablet and desktop modes. Customize your taskbar differently for each mode to optimize your workspace.

8. Keep your desktop organized

Keeping your desktop and files organized can help reduce the number of icons on your taskbar and make it easier to find what you need.

9. Use a Start menu replacement

If you find that your Start menu is cluttered, consider using a Start menu replacement tool like Start10 to clean it up and make it more functional.

10. Give yourself space

One of the most effective ways to make your taskbar smaller is to simply give yourself more space. This can be done by using a larger monitor or reducing the size of other windows and apps on your desktop. In conclusion, with these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy a more organized and cleaner taskbar on your Windows 11 desktop. Tailor your taskbar to your needs, streamline your apps and files, and keep it clutter-free with these easy-to-implement strategies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Making Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11

Advantages

1. Provides more space on the desktop screen

2. Makes navigation on the taskbar easier and quicker

3. Reduces clutter on the screen for a cleaner look

4. Helps in managing multiple open windows on the desktop

5. Allows for more customization options for the taskbar

6. Improves productivity by enabling users to work on multiple tasks at the same time

7. Can increase focus on the task at hand by reducing visual distractions

8. Creates a more minimalist desktop environment

9. Can improve aesthetic appeal by removing unnecessary elements

10. Creates a more organized desktop by keeping the taskbar compact

Disadvantages

1. Can make it difficult for users with poor eyesight to see icons on the taskbar

2. Users may have to hover over the taskbar icons to see more information about the open windows

3. Can make it challenging to find specific icons on the taskbar

4. Users may have to customize the settings to find the perfect size for their taskbar

5. Users can accidentally close an open window by clicking on the incorrect icon, as the icons are smaller

6. May require some time for users to get used to a smaller taskbar in Windows 11

7. Some users may find a smaller taskbar less aesthetically pleasing

8. Can make it harder to distinguish between different programs and open windows

9. Not suitable for users who regularly work with many open windows on the desktop

10. May not be a significant improvement for users with a larger monitor or screen resolution

FAQ

1. Can I make the taskbar smaller in Windows 11?

Yes, you can make the taskbar smaller in Windows 11 by using the Taskbar settings option.

2. How do I access Taskbar settings?

To access Taskbar settings, right-click on the taskbar and select “Taskbar settings” from the menu that appears.

3. What do I do once I’m in Taskbar settings?

In Taskbar settings, you can adjust the size of the taskbar by moving the slider under the “Taskbar behaviors” section.

4. Can I make the taskbar smaller than the default minimum size?

No, you cannot make the taskbar smaller than the default minimum size in Windows 11.

5. What happens to my taskbar icons when I make the taskbar smaller?

Your taskbar icons will be automatically rearranged to fit the new smaller size.

6. Will making the taskbar smaller affect the size of my desktop icons?

No, making the taskbar smaller will not affect the size of your desktop icons.

7. Is there a way to keep the taskbar small all the time?

Yes, you can set the taskbar to automatically hide when not in use by selecting the “Automatically hide the taskbar” option in Taskbar settings.

8. Can I change the color of my taskbar?

Yes, you can change the color of your taskbar by going to Taskbar settings and selecting a new color under the “Colors” section.

9. What other options are available in Taskbar settings?

In Taskbar settings, you can also adjust the alignment of the taskbar, choose which icons appear on the taskbar, and customize taskbar notifications.

10. Can I resize the taskbar horizontally?

No, you cannot resize the taskbar horizontally in Windows 11.

11. Will resizing the taskbar affect the performance of my computer?

No, resizing the taskbar will not affect the performance of your computer.

12. Can I make the taskbar smaller on multiple monitors?

Yes, you can make the taskbar smaller on multiple monitors by adjusting the taskbar settings on each individual monitor.

13. What should I do if I’m having trouble resizing the taskbar?

If you’re having trouble resizing the taskbar, try restarting your computer or updating your graphics drivers.

How to Make Taskbar Smaller in Windows 11

Windows 11 has introduced a lot of new features and changes. One of the most noticeable changes is the updated design, which includes a new Start menu and taskbar. However, for some users, the new taskbar may feel a bit too big. If you’re one of them, don’t worry – you can easily make the taskbar smaller. Here’s how:

Conclusion and Closing

Now you know how to make the taskbar smaller in Windows 11. It’s a simple process that can make a big difference if you prefer a more compact taskbar. However, keep in mind that shrinking the taskbar may make it more difficult to read the text and see the icons. Therefore, it’s a good idea to experiment with different sizes until you find the one that works best for you.

Thank you for reading. We hope this article has been helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. See you soon!