Changing the font size in Windows 11 can really make a difference to how comfy you are when working or just having a scroll. Sometimes the default is too tiny or too big, and tweaking it can make reading text, menus, and apps heaps easier on the peepers. Not always obvious where to fiddle with these settings, especially if Windows is acting a bit dodgy or some apps don’t follow the main font size. So, here’s a straightforward walk-through with a few tips — because of course, Windows likes to make things a bit tricky sometimes.
How to Change Font Size in Windows 11
Adjusting Text Size Through Settings
This method tweaks the whole system’s text, which is handy if everything feels cramped or if the writing is too small to read without zooming in. The idea is to head into Settings, find Accessibility options, and slide that thing to where it feels right.
Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) and select Settings. Or, hit Win + I for a quicker poke. In Settings, go to Accessibility on the sidebar. Under there, look for Text Size.
Click on Text Size — you’ll see a slider to make all the text bigger or smaller. Drag it left or right until it looks comfortable. You get a live preview while you move it, which is pretty handy. When you’re happy, hit Apply.
Note: You might need to restart your PC or log out and back in
This helps Windows actually apply the new font size right across all apps. Sometimes a quick restart sorts out any glitches where the text doesn’t resize straight away. Might seem odd, but some setups don’t fully change until you give it a reboot.
Manual Adjustment of Display Scaling (Optional)
If you need a bit more than just text size, or some apps still look tiny, try tweaking Display Scaling. Head to Settings > Display > Scale & Layout and pick a percentage (like 125%, 150%). This bumps up the overall size of the UI, including icons, menus, and text.
Heads up: Windows can throwing multiple options your way, so it might take a bit of trial and error. You can also lower the Display Resolution for a bigger display — but beware, it can make things look a bit fuzzy. Scaling’s usually the safer option, mate.
Tips for Changing Font Size in Windows 11
- If it’s still hard to read, go slow with tiny steps — gradually increase the font size rather than all at once.
- Use the preview in the Text Size settings so you don’t overdo it.
- Check how apps look — some don’t automatically follow system-wide changes. You might need to fiddle with app-specific settings, like in your browser or Office.
- If the PC gets used by a few, have a quick chat about the font size — everyone might prefer something different.
- Combine font tweaks with display resolution and scaling for the best setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change font size for individual apps?
Yup, system-wide settings affect everything, but apps like browsers or Word often have their own zoom or text size options. For example, in Chrome, you can zoom in or out with Ctrl + + or Ctrl + -. If a specific app’s still acting up, check inside its settings.
Does changing font size muck around with my display resolution or other settings?
No way. Making the font bigger doesn’t touch your screen resolution or refresh rate. It’s just a text size adjustment, which is pretty tidy because it keeps everything else nice and sharp.
How do I reset to the default font size?
Just go back into Text Size in Accessibility and slide it back to 100%, then hit Apply. Easy as. Or, reset the display scaling back to 100% in Display Settings.
Any quick shortcuts for changing font size?
No native shortcuts, but setting up a custom Accessibility shortcut isn’t too bad, or pinning Settings to your taskbar makes it quicker. Some third-party tools can also help automate these tweaks, but that’s a bit more advanced.
Will bigger fonts help reduce eye strain?
Absolutely. Larger text is easier on the eyes, especially if you’re staring at the screen for ages. It helps avoid squinting or leaning in too close, which is always a good idea, mate.
Summary
- Head into Settings > Accessibility.
- Adjust the Text Size slider and click Apply.
- If needed, play around with display scaling in Display > Scale.
- If changes don’t stick, restart or log out your PC.
Wrap-up
Nailing the font size in Windows 11 isn’t too tricky, but it’s a bit more faffing about than it should be. Still, once you find that perfect spot, everything feels much better on the eyes. If you spend heaps of time on your PC, it’s worth having a fiddle. Hopefully, this helps someone dodge the eye strain or the frustration that comes with fiddling around. Cheers!