Making Windows 11 look a bit more your style is pretty common, especially since the default setup doesn’t exactly scream wow. The good news is, it’s dead easy to give that plain desktop a fresh, Aussie touch — you just need to know where to click. No fancy software needed, just a bit of fiddling in the settings and maybe some third-party bits and bobs if you’re keen for a full makeover.
How to Make Windows 11 Look Better
Here’s the lowdown — some simple steps to make your desktop less boring and more you, like an art project on your desk.
Step 1: Change Your Wallpaper
Go to Settings > Personalisation > Background. You can pick one of Windows’ default pics or click Browse photos to upload your own. Maybe a cool surf pic, your favourite meme, or a sunset from your latest adventure — whatever gets you stoked. Changing the wallpaper instantly sets a new vibe for your desktop. It’s usually the quickest fix for a dull setup.
(Pro tip: Want a slideshow or a super high-res shot? You can set that here too.)
Step 2: Tweak the Theme
Next up, head to Settings > Personalisation > Themes. Pick one of the built-in themes or craft your own. Themes change not only the background but also the window colours, sounds, and sometimes even icons. It’s funny how much a fresh theme can make everything feel a bit more slick and put together. Plus, sometimes Windows just feels a bit more ‘you’ once you give it a good vibe.
(Heads up: Sometimes themes bug out a bit, so if it acts weird, a quick restart or re-selection might do the trick.)
Step 3: Tweak the Taskbar Settings
Right-click the taskbar and pick Taskbar settings. You can move it to different sides, hide icons you don’t need, or make it smaller. Want to get rid of the search box? Done. Prefer your icons centered instead of on the left? Easy as. Tweaking this makes your workspace less cluttered and more to your liking.
(A heads up: Sometimes changing the taskbar setup can cause icons to disappear temporarily — a quick restart usually clears it up, but Windows can be a bit fiddly sometimes.)
Step 4: Adjust Desktop Icons
This one’s often overlooked — head to Settings > Personalisation > Themes > Desktop icon settings. From there, you can choose which icons show up (like This PC, Recycle Bin, Network). Want a cleaner look? Drop all unnecessary icons. Or get a bit more creative with custom icons if you’re game. You can also change the icon sizes here, keeping your desktop tidy and sharp.
(Tip: For more unique icons, third-party tools are handy, but steer clear of messing with system files unless you know what you’re doing.)
Step 5: Use Widgets
Click the Widgets icon in the taskbar — usually a little square with a plus sign. Here, you can add news, weather, calendar, and other bits of info. They sit on the side but getting them set up just how you like adds a nice personal touch and quick access to info.
(Sometimes, the widgets can act up or won’t load. If that happens, closing the panel and reopening it or restarting Explorer.exe in Task Manager usually helps.)
These tips won’t turn your machine into a full-blown custom beast overnight, but they’ll definitely make your desktop less drab and more you. Everyone’s style is different, so spend some time fiddling with backgrounds, themes, and icons that make you smile, not just look good on a screen.
Tips for Making Windows 11 Look Better
- Kick the tyres on different wallpapers until one clicks.
- Hit up the Microsoft Store for extra themes and icon packs — some are free, others cost a few bob.
- Organise your icons into folders or go full minimal if clutter bugs you.
- Use high-res wallpapers and icons for a sharper, cleaner look — HD or 4K if your monitor can handle it.
- Consider third-party tools like Stardock’s WindowBlinds or Rainmeter if you want to go all out custom. Just a heads up, they can sometimes cause a few stability hiccups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own photos as a wallpaper?
Too right. Just head to Background settings and click Browse photos. Pick your favourite shot, and there you go — personal desktop sorted.
How do I download more themes?
Open the Themes menu and click Get more themes in Microsoft Store. Search for something fresh, then install — dead easy.
Can I make the taskbar transparent?
Bit by bit. Go to Settings > Personalisation > Colors. Turn on Transparency effects. It’s not crystal clear, but it gives off a nice frosted look — pretty trendy, actually.
How do I bring things back to default Windows 11 settings?
If things go pear-shaped, just pick the default theme in Settings > Personalisation > Themes. For other tweaks, you might need to dive into hidden options or use a system restore point — a bit more involved, but it gets the job done.
Are third-party customisation tools safe to use?
Generally, yeah—so long as you get them from trusted sources. Read reviews, avoid shady sites, and back up your system first. Windows can be a bit tricky, so play it safe and proceed carefully.
Summary
- Pick a cracking new wallpaper or set up a slideshow.
- Choose a theme that matches your vibe.
- Keen up your taskbar to suit how you work.
- Customise icons for a fresh or simple look.
- Add widgets to make your info quick and easy to access.
Hopefully, this saves you a few hours and gets your PC looking sharp. Giving Windows a personal touch isn’t just about looks — it makes using the thing a whole lot more fun and less bog-standard.