The taskbar in Windows 11 has a modern design, centered icons, and a new layout. While it looks sleek, many users find it too big, especially on smaller screens or laptops. A smaller taskbar not only saves space but also makes your desktop look cleaner.
The good news? You can resize the taskbar in Windows 11 using a few simple tricks. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to make your taskbar smaller.
Why Make the Taskbar Smaller?
Shrinking the taskbar can help you:
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Free up screen space for apps and windows.
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Improve productivity by reducing clutter.
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Get a minimalistic look that feels less distracting.
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Fit more icons if you have many apps pinned.
Think of it like decluttering your desk—more room to focus on what matters.
Method 1: Use Settings (For Windows 11 22H2 and Later)
Microsoft has added more customization options in newer Windows 11 updates.
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Right-click the taskbar → Select Taskbar settings.
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Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors.
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Look for Taskbar size (if available).
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Choose Small from the dropdown menu.
👉 If you don’t see this option, try Method 2 (Registry Editor).
Method 2: Change Taskbar Size Using Registry Editor
This method works on all versions of Windows 11.
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Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. -
Navigate to this location:
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Right-click in the right panel → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.
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Name it:
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Double-click it and set the value:
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0= Small taskbar -
1= Medium (default) -
2= Large
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Click OK and close Registry Editor.
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Restart Windows Explorer (or restart your PC) to apply changes.
💡 To restart Explorer quickly: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, find Windows Explorer, right-click, and choose Restart.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Tools
If you don’t want to mess with the registry, tools like ExplorerPatcher or StartAllBack make it easy.
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ExplorerPatcher: Free and lightweight, lets you resize and customize the taskbar.
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StartAllBack: Paid but highly customizable, offers small taskbar, classic menus, and more.
Method 4: Adjust Display Scaling (Workaround)
Another way to make everything—including the taskbar—look smaller:
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Press Windows + I → System → Display.
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Under Scale & layout, reduce the scaling percentage (e.g., from 150% to 125%).
⚠️ This affects text and icons system-wide, not just the taskbar.
Method 5: Use Classic Taskbar via Explorer Patcher
Some users prefer the Windows 10-style taskbar. ExplorerPatcher allows you to:
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Enable the classic taskbar.
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Change taskbar icon size easily.
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Move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen.
Step-by-Step Recap
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Quick way (if supported): Settings → Taskbar behaviors → Small size.
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Universal way: Use Registry Editor and set
TaskbarSi = 0. -
Extra customization: Try tools like ExplorerPatcher or StartAllBack.
Pros of a Smaller Taskbar
✔️ More screen space
✔️ Cleaner look
✔️ Better for multitasking
✔️ Fits more pinned icons
Conclusion
Making the taskbar smaller in Windows 11 is easy once you know the tricks. If you’re running the latest version, check the Taskbar settings first. Otherwise, the Registry Editor method gives you full control. For those who love extra customization, third-party tools are a great option.
A smaller taskbar means a more organized, minimal, and productive desktop experience.
FAQs
1. Can I make the taskbar smaller without using the Registry Editor?
Yes, if your Windows 11 is updated (22H2 or later), the option may appear in Taskbar settings.
2. Is it safe to use Registry Editor to resize the taskbar?
Yes, as long as you follow the steps carefully. Always back up your registry before making changes.
3. Does shrinking the taskbar affect performance?
No, it only changes the size—it won’t slow down your PC.
4. Can I move the taskbar to the top of the screen?
Not officially, but third-party apps like ExplorerPatcher allow this.
5. Will reducing display scaling make the taskbar smaller?
Yes, but it also makes text and icons across Windows smaller.