How to Change App Icon on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 25, 2025

Changing the way your desktop looks can make your PC feel more personal and organized. One of the easiest ways to do this is by customizing your app icons. If you’ve ever asked yourself “how to change app icon on Windows 11?” you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through multiple methods, explain why it matters, and give you troubleshooting tips — all in simple, easy-to-follow steps.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 lets you change app icons using built-in settings or third-party tools.

  • You can customize desktop shortcuts, taskbar icons, and even system folders.

  • The process involves right-clicking, accessing Properties, and replacing the icon file.

  • Supported icon formats: .ico files (best), but .png and .jpg can be converted.

  • Third-party apps give you even more design freedom.

Why Change App Icons on Windows 11?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s answer the “why.”

  • Personalization: Your PC feels truly yours when it reflects your style.

  • Organization: Custom icons make it easier to quickly spot the apps you use most.

  • Minimalism: Replace cluttered icons with cleaner designs for a distraction-free desktop.

  • Fun Factor: Think of it like decorating your digital workspace — who doesn’t enjoy that?

Things You Need Before Changing App Icons

To make the process smooth, have these ready:

  1. The app shortcut (desktop or taskbar).

  2. Icon files (.ico format) — you can download from free icon sites like Flaticon, Iconfinder, or make your own.

  3. Basic Windows navigation skills (don’t worry, we’ll guide you step by step).

How to Change App Icon on Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: Change Desktop Shortcut Icons

This is the most common way to give your apps a fresh look.

  1. Right-click the app shortcut on your desktop.

  2. Select Properties from the context menu.

  3. Go to the Shortcut tab.

  4. Click Change Icon.

  5. Browse and select your desired .ico file.

  6. Click Apply, then OK.

💡 Tip: If you don’t see “Change Icon,” make sure you’re editing a shortcut, not the original program file.

Method 2: Change Taskbar Icons

Pinned taskbar apps don’t let you change icons directly, but here’s a workaround:

  1. Unpin the app from the taskbar.

  2. Create a desktop shortcut for the app.

  3. Follow Method 1 to change the shortcut icon.

  4. Right-click the customized shortcut and choose Pin to taskbar.

Now your taskbar shows the new custom icon!

Method 3: Change System Folder Icons

Windows 11 also lets you customize default folders like Documents, Downloads, and Pictures.

  1. Right-click the folder → Properties.

  2. Go to the Customize tab.

  3. Click Change Icon under the “Folder icons” section.

  4. Choose or browse for a new .ico file.

  5. Hit Apply → OK.

Method 4: Use Third-Party Tools

If you want advanced customization, third-party apps make it easier:

  • IconPackager (Stardock) – Change entire icon themes.

  • Customizergod – Modify app, system, and even battery icons.

  • 7TSP Icon Packs – Replace system icons in bulk.

Pros: More control and themes.
Cons: Extra software, sometimes paid.

Where to Find Custom App Icons

You don’t have to be a designer — plenty of sites offer free and premium icons:

Source File Types Free/Paid Best Use Case
Flaticon PNG, SVG Free & Paid Stylish, modern icons
Iconfinder ICO, PNG Free & Paid App logos, themed packs
IconArchive ICO Free Classic Windows-style icons
ConvertICO.com Converts to ICO Free Turn PNG → ICO

💡 Always make sure your icon is in ICO format for compatibility.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why is my app icon not changing?

  • You may be editing the original .exe file instead of a shortcut.

  • Windows might be caching the old icon. Try restarting File Explorer.

My icon looks blurry. What should I do?

  • Use a 256×256 size .ico file for best clarity.

  • Avoid resizing tiny images into icons — quality drops.

Can I revert to the default icon?

Yes! Just repeat the steps and hit Restore Defaults in the Change Icon window.

Advanced Tips for Customizing Icons

  • Organize by color: Assign colors to categories (blue = work apps, green = media).

  • Minimalist packs: Keep your desktop looking clean and modern.

  • Dark mode friendly: Pick icons that contrast well with your background.

  • Backup before experimenting: Save original icons in case you want to switch back.

How to Convert PNG or JPG into ICO Files

Many icons you’ll download are in PNG format. Here’s how to convert them:

  1. Go to an online converter like ConvertICO.com.

  2. Upload your PNG/JPG file.

  3. Download the converted .ico file.

  4. Use it with the steps above.

How to Change Icons for Microsoft Store Apps

Unlike desktop apps, Microsoft Store apps are tricky. Here’s a workaround:

  1. Create a desktop shortcut for the Store app (via Start Menu → right-click → Pin to Start → drag to Desktop).

  2. Right-click the shortcut → Properties.

  3. Change the icon as shown in Method 1.

How to Refresh Icon Cache in Windows 11

Sometimes icons don’t update because Windows caches them.

To rebuild the cache:

  1. Open File Explorer → go to

    C:\Users\<YourUser>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer

  2. Delete all files starting with iconcache.

  3. Restart your PC.

This forces Windows to rebuild icons with the new ones.

Benefits of Custom Icons in Daily Use

  • Faster navigation: Recognize apps instantly by unique visuals.

  • Aesthetic appeal: Makes your desktop look less cluttered.

  • Productivity boost: Small visual cues can speed up workflow.

Conclusion

Changing app icons in Windows 11 is a quick yet powerful way to personalize your computer. Whether you’re replacing desktop shortcuts, customizing taskbar apps, or revamping system folders, the process is straightforward once you know where to look.

By using .ico files and following the steps above, you can give your PC a fresh, customized feel. Add in some third-party tools, and the possibilities are endless.

So, why stick with boring default icons? Take a few minutes today and transform your desktop into something uniquely yours.

FAQs: How to Change App Icon on Windows 11

1. Can I change icons for apps installed from the Microsoft Store?
Yes, but you’ll need to create a shortcut first, then change its icon.

2. Do I need special software to change icons?
No, Windows 11 lets you change icons natively. Tools just make it easier.

3. What’s the best format for icons?
Use .ico files — they work best with Windows.

4. Will changing icons slow down my PC?
No, icon customization doesn’t affect performance.

5. Can I apply an icon pack to change all icons at once?
Yes, third-party apps like IconPackager or 7TSP let you do bulk changes.

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