Give Your Windows 11 Start Menu the Classic Windows 10 Look
So, Windows 11 is here, and with it came a Start Menu that not everyone is keen on. If the new layout feels a bit too different and makes you miss the straightforward feel of Windows 10, you’re not alone. The good news? You can customise it to feel more familiar — but it does require a bit of extra effort since Microsoft doesn’t include an official way to do this out of the box. You’ll need to use some third-party tools to bring back that classic vibe, and honestly, it’s worth the little hassle.
Getting Started
The trick is finding the right tool that will let you tweak the Start Menu. Basically, you’re after software that can alter both how it looks and how it behaves. Many users have had success with apps like StartAllBack or TaskbarX. These can really change the way your Start Menu appears on Windows 11. When choosing a tool, check out user reviews to avoid any issues — no one wants a dodgy app messing up their system.
To get started with StartAllBack:
wget https://www.startallback.com/download/startallback.exe
or just visit their website to download directly from hereCustomise Away
Once installed, open the app and you’ll see a variety of options to play with. It’s quite user-friendly, so simply click around until you find the Windows 10 style. You can see previews of the changes live — which makes it easier to get it just right. No one wants to settle for a style that doesn’t quite feel right.
With StartAllBack, you can:
- Right-click the Start button and select StartAllBack Settings
- Go to the Start Menu tab
- Choose the Windows 10 style or explore other custom options if you’re feeling adventurous
Make It Stick
Once you’ve chosen your style, save the settings — and watch your Start Menu change before your eyes. But heads up: sometimes, these tweaks don’t fully kick in until you restart your PC. It’s a bit annoying, but a quick reboot usually sorts it out. Just go to Start > Power > Restart or hit Alt + F4 on your desktop to restart your computer.
Fine-Tuning
After restarting, take a look at your customised Start Menu. Feel free to experiment with some additional tweaks that these apps often offer — like changing colour schemes or adjusting icon positions. Small changes can make a real difference in how comfortable you feel navigating your PC. Many users have their own favourite tweaks that make their setup uniquely theirs.
Some Tips to Keep in Mind
- Back up any important files before making modifications — better safe than sorry.
- Ensure your Windows 11 is fully up to date: go to Settings > Windows Update. Updates can improve compatibility.
- Stick with apps from reputable sources and read user reviews to avoid potential security risks.
- Feel free to explore all the features your chosen customisation tool offers — you might find some handy hidden gems.
- During installation, watch out for requests for excessive permissions — if something feels off, it’s best to proceed with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo the changes if something goes wrong?
Absolutely. Most of these tools make it easy to revert to the original Start Menu with just a couple of clicks. To uninstall, head to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find the app, and select Uninstall.
Press Win + I to open Settings, then go to Apps & Features, find your app, and click Uninstall.Are third-party tools safe to use?
If you stick to well-known and reputable apps, they are generally safe. Just make sure to download them from trusted sources and check reviews to reduce any risk of malware or other issues.
Will these tweaks slow down my PC?
Most of these customisation tools are pretty lightweight and shouldn’t impact performance noticeably. Still, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your system after making changes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
How do I pick the right tool for customisation?
Look for apps with good reviews and positive feedback from real users. Community forums and online reviews can give you a good idea of what works best.
Do I need third-party tools to personalise my Start Menu?
For now, yes. Microsoft doesn’t include a built-in option to revert to Windows 10’s Start Menu style without third-party help.
Quick Summary
- Download and install a trusted third-party customisation tool.
- Open its settings and select the Windows 10 look.
- Apply the changes and see the update instantly.
- Restart your computer to finalise the setup.
- If desired, explore further options to fine-tune your setup.
Restoring the classic Windows 10 Start Menu on Windows 11 is quite doable with a bit of third-party software. It’s a smart way to keep your familiar workflow while enjoying the perks of Windows 11’s security and performance improvements. With a few tweaks, your desktop can feel just like home — only better. Choosing the right tools and knowing how to adjust settings makes for a smoother, more personalised experience.