Ready to give your Windows 10 a fresh, Windows 11-inspired look? It's easier than you might think! While you can't directly install Windows 11 themes on Windows 10, we can achieve a very similar aesthetic by tweaking various customization options. Let's dive in and transform your desktop!
Step 1: Getting the Essential Goodies
Before we begin, we need to gather a few key elements that contribute to the Windows 11 visual style. Don't worry, these are generally safe and widely used customization tools.
1.1: Downloading Rounded Corners Application
One of the most distinctive visual elements of Windows 11 is its rounded window corners. To replicate this on Windows 10, we'll need a third-party application.
- Search Online: Open your favorite web browser and search for "rounded corners Windows 10 app".
- Choose Carefully: Look for reputable sources like GitHub or well-known tech websites. Read reviews or comments if available to ensure the application is safe and stable. Be cautious of bundled software or suspicious download links.
- Download and Install: Once you've found a suitable application, download its installer and run it. Follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your system. You might need to grant it administrative privileges during installation.
1.2: Acquiring Windows 11 Icons
The icon set in Windows 11 has a cleaner, more modern look. We can bring this to Windows 10 with custom icon packs.
- Icon Pack Websites: Websites like DeviantArt are popular sources for custom icon packs. Search for "Windows 11 icon pack for Windows 10".
- Preview and Select: Browse through the available icon packs and choose one that closely resembles the Windows 11 style. Many creators provide previews.
- Download the Icon Pack: Download the icon pack to a location you can easily access (e.g., your Downloads folder). These packs often come in
.zipor.7zformats.
1.3: Finding a Suitable Wallpaper
Windows 11 features a set of sleek and modern wallpapers. Let's find one for your desktop.
- Search for Wallpapers: Use a search engine to look for "Windows 11 wallpapers".
- Reputable Sources: Websites specializing in wallpapers (like Unsplash, Pexels, or even Microsoft's own wallpaper collections) are good places to start.
- Download Your Choice: Select a wallpaper you like and download it in a resolution that fits your screen.
Step 2: Applying the Visual Changes
Now that we have our tools and resources, let's start applying the changes to make Windows 10 look more like Windows 11.
2.1: Enabling Rounded Corners
- Launch the Application: Open the rounded corners application you installed in Step 1.
- Configure Settings: Most applications will have options to adjust the corner radius and which windows are affected. Experiment with the settings until you achieve a look you're happy with. Start with a small radius and gradually increase it.
- Autostart (Optional but Recommended): Configure the application to start automatically when you log in so you don't have to manually run it each time.
2.2: Changing Icons
Applying custom icon packs usually requires a third-party icon changer tool.
- Download an Icon Changer: If the icon pack you downloaded doesn't include its own installer, search for a reliable icon changer application for Windows 10 (again, be cautious with your downloads). Popular options include "IconChanger" or similar tools.
- Run the Icon Changer: Open the icon changer application.
- Browse for the Icon Pack: The application will typically allow you to browse for the downloaded icon pack. Follow the instructions within the icon changer to apply the new icons to your system. This might take a few moments. Be patient during this process.
- System Icons: Some icon changers allow you to specifically change system icons (like This PC, Recycle Bin, etc.). Look for these options and apply the Windows 11-style icons.
2.3: Setting the Wallpaper
This is the easiest part!
- Locate the Downloaded Wallpaper: Find the Windows 11 wallpaper you downloaded.
- Right-Click and Set as Desktop Background: Right-click on the image file and select "Set as desktop background".
Step 3: Further Enhancements (Optional)
To get even closer to the Windows 11 look and feel, consider these additional steps.
3.1: Taskbar Customization
- Taskbar Alignment: Windows 11 has its taskbar icons centered by default. You can achieve this in Windows 10 using third-party tools like "TaskbarX" or by manually tweaking registry settings (this is more advanced and requires caution).
- Taskbar Appearance: Explore the Taskbar settings (right-click on the taskbar and select "Taskbar settings") to adjust its color and transparency.
3.2: Start Menu Alternatives
The Windows 11 Start Menu is significantly different from Windows 10's.
- Third-Party Start Menu Replacements: Consider using third-party applications like "Open-Shell" (which allows you to customize the Start Menu extensively) to achieve a more Windows 11-like layout or a cleaner appearance.
3.3: Sound Scheme
While visually focused, the Windows 11 sound scheme also contributes to its overall feel.
- Search for Windows 11 Sound Scheme: You might be able to find downloadable Windows 11 sound schemes online.
- Apply the Sound Scheme: Go to "Sound" settings in the Control Panel (search for "Sound" in the Start Menu) and look for options to browse and apply sound schemes.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Transformed Desktop!
Take a moment to appreciate your newly customized Windows 10 desktop, now sporting a distinct Windows 11 vibe! Remember that this is an emulation, and some functionalities or visual nuances might not be perfectly replicated.
Frequently Asked Questions (How to...)
How to uninstall a rounded corners application?
Generally, you can uninstall applications through the "Apps & features" settings in Windows 10 (search for it in the Start Menu). Find the rounded corners application in the list, select it, and click "Uninstall".
How to revert to the default Windows 10 icons?
If you used an icon changer application, it usually has an option to restore the default icons. If not, you might need to uninstall the icon pack or use the icon changer to manually select the default Windows icons.
How to change the desktop background back to default?
Right-click on an empty area of your desktop, select "Personalize," then go to "Background." You can choose a default Windows 10 background or browse for your own images.
How to center the taskbar icons in Windows 10 without third-party software?
This involves more advanced registry editing and can be risky if not done correctly. Search online for "center taskbar icons Windows 10 registry" for detailed guides, but proceed with caution and back up your registry first.
How to customize the Start Menu in Windows 10?
Right-click on the Start button, go to "Settings," then "Personalization," and finally "Start." Here you can customize which folders appear, show more tiles, and more. For a more drastic change, consider third-party Start Menu replacements.
How to find safe icon packs online?
Stick to reputable websites like DeviantArt and read comments or reviews before downloading. Be wary of sites with excessive ads or suspicious download links.
How to change individual icons in Windows 10?
You can right-click on a shortcut, select "Properties," go to the "Shortcut" tab, and click "Change Icon." You can then browse for .ico files. This is useful for changing specific application icons.
How to remove a custom sound scheme in Windows 10?
Go to "Sound" settings in the Control Panel. Under the "Sounds" tab, you should be able to select the default Windows sound scheme from the dropdown menu.
How to make the taskbar transparent in Windows 10?
Go to "Settings," then "Personalization," then "Colors." Make sure "Transparency effects" is turned on. You might need to choose a color that allows for some transparency.
How to ensure third-party customization apps are safe?
Download from well-known sources, read reviews, and consider running a virus scan on the downloaded files before installing. Be cautious about granting administrative privileges to untrusted applications.