How to Move Search Bar in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you might have noticed that Microsoft redesigned the Taskbar — including the Search function.

Unlike Windows 10, where the Search box could be freely moved or resized, Windows 11 centralizes it by default. Some users love the clean look, while others miss the flexibility.

So, what if you want to move the Search bar to the left, make it smaller, or even hide it completely?

In this guide, we’ll show you how to move and customize the Search bar in Windows 11, step by step. Whether you prefer a classic layout or a modern touch, this tutorial will help you get there easily.

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🧩 Understanding the Windows 11 Search Bar

Before you start tweaking, let’s understand how the Search bar works in Windows 11.

🔍 The Search Interface Includes:

🧠 Fun Fact:

In Windows 11 22H2 and later, Microsoft introduced multiple Search styles — icon only, icon + label, and full Search box.

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⚙️ Step 1: Open Taskbar Settings

The easiest way to customize or move the Search bar is through Taskbar Settings.

🪜 Here’s how:

1. Right-click an empty area on your Taskbar.

2. Select Taskbar settings from the context menu.

3. The Personalization → Taskbar window will open automatically.

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⚙️ Step 2: Choose Search Bar Style

Windows 11 lets you choose how the Search bar appears.

🪜 Steps:

1. In the Taskbar settings window, look for the Taskbar items section.

2. Find Search.

3. Click the drop-down menu next to it.

4. Choose one of the following options:

💡 Tip: Choosing Search box mimics the classic Windows 10 look, while Search icon only saves Taskbar space.

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⚙️ Step 3: Move the Search Bar to the Left or Center

By default, Windows 11 centers Taskbar icons, including Search. You can move them to the left side like in older Windows versions.

🪜 Steps to Move the Search Bar:

1. Go to Settings → Personalization → Taskbar behaviors.

2. Find the option Taskbar alignment.

3. Click the drop-down and select Left.

✅ This instantly moves the Start button, Search bar, and all Taskbar icons to the left corner of your screen.

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⚙️ Step 4: Hide or Disable the Search Bar

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts (like Windows + S) or simply don’t use Search often, you can hide it completely.

🪜 Steps:

1. Open Settings → Personalization → Taskbar.

2. Under Taskbar items, toggle Search to Off.

✅ The Search bar disappears, leaving a cleaner Taskbar.

To open Search later, just press Windows + S.

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⚙️ Step 5: Use Registry Editor to Customize Search Position (Advanced)

For users who love fine-tuning, you can also adjust the Search bar settings using the Registry Editor.

⚠️ Warning: Modifying the Registry can affect system behavior. Always back it up before making changes.

🪜 Steps:

1. Press Windows + R → type regedit → press Enter.

2. Navigate to this path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Search


3. Find or create a DWORD value named SearchboxTaskbarMode.

4. Double-click it and set one of these values:

5. Click OK, then restart your PC or Windows Explorer.

✅ Your Search bar style and position will now reflect the chosen setting.

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⚙️ Step 6: Adjust Search Permissions & Indexing

If you move the Search bar or change its appearance, you might also want to refine how Search works.

🪜 Steps:

1. Press Windows + I → Go to Privacy & security → Search permissions.

2. Manage these options:

   • SafeSearch: Adjust web filtering levels.

   • Cloud content search: Include results from OneDrive or Microsoft accounts.

   • History: Turn off if you don’t want your searches saved.

3. Go to Privacy & security → Searching Windows to control indexing — i.e., what files and folders appear in results.

💡 Pro Tip: Reducing indexing scope can improve performance on older PCs.

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🧠 Bonus: Keyboard Shortcuts for Faster Search Access

Even if you move or hide the Search bar, you can still access Search instantly using keyboard shortcuts.

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🎨 Bonus Tip: Use Third-Party Tools for Custom Layouts

If you want full control over Taskbar customization, consider tools like:

⚠️ Use trusted sources only when downloading third-party utilities.

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🧰 Troubleshooting: Common Problems When Moving the Search Bar

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💡 Expert Tips for Search Bar Customization

1. Keep it centered if you love a minimalist design.

2. Move it left for a classic Windows feel.

3. Hide it if you prefer shortcuts or voice commands.

4. Use Windows Updates to access the newest Search UI options.

5. Regularly clear your Search history for privacy and better performance.

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🧾 Summary: Moving and Customizing the Search Bar in Windows 11

Here’s a quick recap of what we covered:

By following these steps, you can make your Windows 11 Taskbar look and feel exactly how you want — clean, centered, or classic.

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❓ FAQs About Moving the Search Bar in Windows 11

1. Can I move the Search bar to the top of the screen in Windows 11?

Not natively. You’ll need a third-party app like StartAllBack or ExplorerPatcher for that feature.

2. Why can’t I find the Search bar in Taskbar settings?

You may be using an older Windows 11 build. Update to the latest version (22H2 or later) to access new Taskbar customization features.

3. Can I resize the Search box?

No, Windows 11 does not allow manual resizing, but you can switch between icon and box styles.

4. How do I restore the classic Windows 10 Search bar?

Use ExplorerPatcher to bring back the Windows 10-style Taskbar and Search bar.

5. Does moving the Search bar affect performance?

No, it’s purely a visual change and doesn’t impact speed or system resources.

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🏁 Conclusion: Personalize Your Taskbar Experience

Windows 11 focuses on minimalism and consistency, but it still gives you plenty of flexibility to make the Search bar fit your style.

Whether you prefer it on the left, center, or hidden, the customization options in Taskbar Settings make it simple.

So go ahead — move, tweak, or hide your Search bar and make your desktop truly yours!