When Windows 11 launched, one of the most noticeable changes was the centered Start Menu. While it looks modern and clean, not everyone is a fan of this new design. If you’re a long-time Windows user, you might prefer the classic left-aligned Start Menu just like in Windows 10.
Good news: Windows 11 makes it super easy to move the Start Menu back to the left — no third-party tools required. This guide will show you exactly how to do it, step by step.
Why Move the Start Menu to the Left?
There are a few reasons why users prefer the Start Menu on the left:
-
Familiarity: Left-aligned menus have been the default for decades.
-
Efficiency: Muscle memory makes it quicker to access.
-
Personal Preference: Some people just prefer the traditional look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Move Start Menu to the Left
Step 1: Open Settings
-
Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
-
Alternatively, click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
Step 2: Go to Personalization
-
In the left sidebar, click Personalization.
-
This section allows you to customize how Windows 11 looks and feels.
Step 3: Select Taskbar
-
Scroll down and click Taskbar.
-
This opens the settings for your taskbar and Start Menu.
Step 4: Open Taskbar Behaviors
-
Scroll down to find Taskbar behaviors and click to expand it.
Step 5: Change Taskbar Alignment
-
Under Taskbar alignment, click the dropdown menu.
-
Select Left instead of Center.
Step 6: Apply and Close
-
The Start Menu and icons will immediately shift to the left side of the taskbar.
-
Close the Settings window — you’re done!
Visual Confirmation
After you switch the alignment, your taskbar and Start button will behave just like they did in Windows 10, sitting neatly in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
Extra Customization Tips
Want to make Windows 11 look even more like Windows 10? Here are a few extra tweaks:
-
Disable Taskbar Centered Icons for a Classic Look:
Move not just the Start button but also all taskbar icons to the left by keeping the alignment set to Left. -
Remove Widgets and Chat Icons:
In Taskbar settings, toggle off Widgets and Chat to declutter the taskbar. -
Change Start Menu Layout:
Go to Settings > Personalization > Start and choose to show More pins for a layout closer to Windows 10.
Troubleshooting
If the Start Menu doesn’t move:
-
Restart Windows Explorer:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager → Find Windows Explorer → Right-click → Select Restart. -
Check for Windows Updates:
Some early builds of Windows 11 had issues with alignment. Make sure you’re running the latest version by going to Settings > Windows Update.
Key Takeaways
-
Moving the Start Menu to the left in Windows 11 is quick and easy.
-
The option is built right into Settings > Personalization > Taskbar behaviors.
-
You can customize even further for a more classic Windows feel.
Conclusion
Windows 11 may look fresh with its centered taskbar, but Microsoft still gives you the flexibility to go old-school. With just a few clicks, you can move the Start Menu back to the left and enjoy the familiar look you’re used to. Whether it’s for convenience, muscle memory, or just personal taste, you now know exactly how to make Windows 11 feel like home again.
FAQs
1. Will moving the Start Menu to the left affect performance?
No — this is just a visual change and doesn’t impact performance at all.
2. Can I center only some apps and leave the Start button left-aligned?
No, the alignment applies to the entire taskbar, including all pinned apps.
3. Is there a way to move the taskbar to the top or side?
Currently, Windows 11 doesn’t officially support moving the taskbar to the top or sides (except through registry tweaks).
4. Can I make Windows 11 look exactly like Windows 10?
Almost — by left-aligning the Start Menu, adjusting the Start layout, and removing extra icons, you can get very close.
5. Will my settings stay after a restart?
Yes, the alignment stays left-aligned even after restarting your computer.