Icons are an essential component of your computer. They help you access your files, folders, and applications with a single click. Every operating system has its unique icon style, ranging from size to design. Since Windows 11 hit the market last year, some users have been complaining that the icons are too small, especially on larger displays. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll show you several methods of how to change the size of icons on Windows 11.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change the Size of Icons on Windows 11
There are multiple reasons why you might want to change the size of icons on Windows 11. One of the main reasons is that the icons may be too small to see on your desktop or start menu. This is particularly true if you have a large display or visual impairment.
Another reason for changing icon size is to improve accessibility. By increasing the size of icons on Windows 11, you can make it easier for people with visual impairments to see them.
Finally, some users simply prefer larger icons. They find them easier to navigate and visually pleasing. Whatever your reason is, we’ve got you covered.
Method 1: via Settings
Windows 11 comes with several built-in options for changing the size of the icons. One of the easiest methods is to use the settings menu, which allows you to increase or decrease the size of the icons.
Before we start, make sure you’re logged into your Windows 11 account and connected to the internet. Here’s how to change the size of the icons on Windows 11 using Settings:
Step 1: Open Settings by pressing the Windows key + i on your keyboard.
Step 2: Click on the Personalization option on the left-hand menu.
Step 3: Select the Themes tab on the top navigation pane.
Step 4: Click on the Advanced settings link.
Step 5: Scroll down to the Icon sizing options and select the size you’d like.
Step 6: Click on Apply to save changes and exit the settings menu.
Pros: It’s easy to use, and you can customize the icon’s size.
Cons: You can only choose options up to a certain size.
Method 2: via the Desktop
Another method to change the size of icons on Windows 11 is through the Desktop. You can easily adjust the size of the icons on the Desktop as well as the taskbar to make them more visible. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Right-click on an empty area on your desktop.
Step 2: From the context menu that appears, select ‘Display Settings.’
Step 3: In the Display Settings window, scroll down and click on ‘Advanced Display settings.’
Step 4: From the Advanced Display settings window, click on ‘Advanced sizing of text and other items.’
Step 5: Now, under the ‘Scale and layout’ section, find the ‘Custom scaling’ option and click on ‘Set a custom scaling level.’
Step 6: Adjust the slider to scale up or down the size of the icons and texts.
Step 7: Hit Apply.
Pros: It’s more flexible than the previous option, and you can resize the taskbar, too.
Cons: Making the custom scaling too high can disturb the clarity of your screen.
Method 3: via Registry Editor
If the above methods don’t work for you or you want even more customization options, you can go into the Registry Editor to change the size of icons. Here’s what to do:
Warning: Editing Registry requires technical knowledge; incorrect changes can cause severe system damage. So, we recommend creating a system restore point before attempting this method.
Step 1: Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Step 2: Type "Regedit" into the search field and press Enter.
Step 3: Navigate to the following registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics
Step 4: Look for the "Shell Icon Size" string value on the right panel.
Step 5: Double-click on it and change the value data to a numeric value from 16 to 256. For example, if you want the icon size to be 30, set the value data to 30.
Step 6: Click OK to save the changes.
Pros: Vastly customizable, changes apply across all applicable icons and programs.
Cons: A wrong move might cause severe harm to the system.
What to Do if You Can’t Change the Size of Icons on Windows 11
Sometimes you might find that none of the methods work for you. Perhaps, changing the size of icons is disabled on your system, or you encounter a bug preventing you from making changes. Here are some tips on what you can try if you’re experiencing these issues:
1. Restart or Force Restart Your Computer – A simple restart can fix the problem if it occurred because of a glitch or memory leak. If that didn’t work, try a hard restart.
2. Check for Windows 11 Updates – Sometimes, the issue with the icons is a bug that needs a patch to go away.
3. Check Your System Configuration – Check your system requirements; maybe your system cannot support high-resolution icons.
4. Use a Third-Party Program – While this isn’t ideal, there are programs that can help you increase the size of your icons and user interface. However, their reliability and trustworthiness are matters of concern.
Bonus Tip
Try customizing the Windows theme colors to make the icons more visible. In the ‘Personalization’ section of Windows settings, you can pick ‘Colors’ and customize options to give their Windows a little pop of color.
5 FAQs about Changing the Size of Icons on Windows 11
Q1: What is the average size of Windows 11 Desktop icons?
A: The average size of a Windows 11 Desktop icon is 64×64 pixels.
Q2: What if I can’t find the Display option in my Settings menu?
A: It could be that your system is not compatible with the resolution responsible for Display settings. Check your system requirements to verify if there is any limitation to resolution.
Q3: Can I change icon size for only one particular program?
A: No, you can’t. Once you change the icon size in Windows, it affects all applicable icons and applications.
Q4: Can I use the Registry Editor method if I don’t have admin access?
A: No, you cannot change the Windows settings without admin access.
Q5: What happens if I set my Custom Scaling too high?
A: Setting your custom scaling too high might lead to blurry or fuzzy text rendering, display issues, and general distortion in your user interface.
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 has brought a lot of changes, but not all of them are to everyone’s liking. If you find the default icon sizes too small, we hope that these methods will help you customize them to your satisfaction. Remember, your icon size preference reflects your personal style and ease of access.