How to Change Folder Color on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 3, 2025

Ever felt lost in a sea of yellow folders? Windows 11 looks sleek, but all folders look the same. Wouldn’t it be easier if your work folder was red, your personal files blue, and your projects green?

Why Change Folder Colors in Windows 11?

That’s exactly what changing folder colors does—it makes your system not only look stylish but also helps you stay organized.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to change folder color on Windows 11 using built-in options and third-party software.

Can You Change Folder Colors in Windows 11 Natively?

Unfortunately, Windows 11 doesn’t let you directly assign colors to folders. The default option only allows changing folder icons, not their color.

But don’t worry—we’ll cover both:

  1. Manual method – Change icons for better customization.

  2. Third-party apps – Directly assign colors.

Method 1: Change Folder Color Using Custom Icons (Built-in Option)

This doesn’t change the folder’s actual color but lets you assign unique icons to make folders stand out.

Step 1: Right-Click on the Folder

  • Choose the folder you want to customize.

  • Right-click → Select Properties.

Step 2: Open Customize Tab

  • In the Properties window, click on Customize.

Step 3: Change Icon

  • Under Folder icons, click Change Icon….

  • Select from the available icons or browse for custom .ico files.

Step 4: Apply Changes

  • Click OK → Apply → OK.

  • Your folder now has a new look.

💡 Pro Tip: You can download free .ico icon packs online to make your folders colorful.

Method 2: Change Folder Color with Folder Marker (Third-Party Tool)

Folder Marker is one of the most popular apps for coloring folders.

Step 1: Download and Install Folder Marker

  • Visit the official website → Download free or Pro version.

Step 2: Right-Click Your Folder

  • Select the folder → Right-click → Choose Mark Folder.

Step 3: Pick a Color

  • Choose a color-coded icon (red, blue, green, etc.).

  • Apply the change.

✅ Your folder now has a new color instantly!

Method 3: Using Rainbow Folders

Rainbow Folders is another lightweight app for customizing folder colors.

Step 1: Install Rainbow Folders

  • Download and install the program.

Step 2: Open the App

  • Select the folder you want to modify.

Step 3: Assign a Color

  • Choose a color from the palette.

  • Apply changes → Your folder updates immediately.

Method 4: CustomizerGod (For Advanced Customization)

If you want complete Windows UI customization, CustomizerGod is an excellent choice.

  • Supports icon changes, colors, and UI tweaks.

  • Offers pre-made icon packs.

  • Lets you revert to default anytime.

Comparison of Popular Tools

Tool Free Version Ease of Use Features
Folder Marker Yes Very Easy Basic folder colors + labels
Rainbow Folders Yes Easy Color palette for folders
CustomizerGod Yes Medium Advanced Windows UI tweaks

Summary (Key Takeaways)

  • Windows 11 does not have a built-in feature to change folder colors.

  • You can customize folder icons using built-in options (custom icons).

  • For actual color changes, you need third-party tools like Folder Marker, CustomizerGod, or Rainbow Folders.

  • Custom folder colors improve organization and make navigation easier.

  • This guide covers manual customization and software-based methods, step by step.

Why Should You Change Folder Colors?

  • Faster navigation – Spot important folders instantly.

  • Better productivity – Color-coding projects helps you organize work.

  • Aesthetic appeal – Give your desktop or file explorer a personal touch.

  • Reduced mistakes – Prevent confusion between similar-looking folders.

How to Restore Folder to Default Color in Windows 11

If you don’t like your changes, restoring is easy:

  1. Right-click on the folder → Properties.

  2. Go to Customize → Change Icon.

  3. Select the default yellow folder icon.

  4. Click OK → Apply.

✅ Your folder is back to normal.

Common Issues and Fixes

Problem 1: “Folder doesn’t change color after applying”

  • Restart Windows Explorer or log out and back in.

Problem 2: “Icons appear blurry”

  • Use high-quality .ico files for best results.

Problem 3: “Software not working on Windows 11”

  • Run the app in Compatibility Mode (Windows 10).

Best Practices for Folder Color Customization

  • Assign red for urgent folders.

  • Use blue for personal documents.

  • Keep green for work projects.

  • Limit too many colors to avoid clutter.

Conclusion

Windows 11 doesn’t let you directly change folder colors, but with the help of custom icons and third-party tools, you can bring color and clarity to your file explorer.

Whether you’re using Folder Marker for quick colors or Rainbow Folders for custom palettes, the process is simple and highly rewarding.

So, why stick with boring yellow when you can make your folders pop with personality and efficiency?

FAQs: How to Change Folder Color on Windows 11

1. Does Windows 11 allow changing folder colors natively?
No, only folder icons can be changed by default.

2. Is Folder Marker safe to use?
Yes, if downloaded from the official site.

3. Can I set different colors for multiple folders at once?
Yes, Folder Marker Pro allows bulk changes.

4. Will changing folder color slow down my PC?
No, it has little to no impact on performance.

5. Can I undo folder color changes?
Yes, you can restore the default yellow icon anytime.

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