Windows 11 introduced a modern taskbar with a centered layout, rounded corners, and new features. One of the most noticeable changes is the search bar (or search box) sitting on your taskbar. While some users love the quick access, many find it unnecessary, cluttered, or simply prefer using keyboard shortcuts (Windows + S) for searching.
If you’re one of those who want a cleaner taskbar, this guide will walk you through how to remove the search bar from the Windows 11 taskbar step by step.
Whether you want to hide it, make it smaller, or remove it completely, we’ll cover all the methods in simple, beginner-friendly language.
Why Remove the Search Bar in Windows 11?
Not everyone needs the search bar. Here’s why you might want to remove it:
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Clutter-free taskbar → More space for pinned apps.
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Better aesthetics → Minimalist look.
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Improved performance → Slightly faster startup without extra processes.
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Alternative search methods → Use shortcuts instead of a permanent bar.
👉 Think of it like decluttering your desk — less distraction, more focus.
Understanding the Windows 11 Search Bar
In Windows 11, the search bar can appear in different styles:
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Search box → Full-length bar with text input.
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Search icon and label → Magnifying glass + “Search” text.
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Search icon only → Just the magnifying glass.
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Hidden → Completely removed.
You can switch between these styles or hide it altogether.
Method 1: Remove Search Bar via Taskbar Settings
This is the easiest and official method.
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Right-click on an empty space on the taskbar.
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Select Taskbar settings.
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Under Taskbar items, find Search.
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Toggle the switch Off.
✅ The search bar will instantly disappear.
Method 2: Remove Search Bar Using Right-Click on Taskbar
If you’re in a hurry:
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Right-click directly on the search bar.
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Select Hide from the menu.
That’s it — quick and simple.
Method 3: Change Search Bar Style (Icon Only, Label, Hidden)
Instead of removing it completely, you can minimize it:
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Open Settings (Win + I).
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Go to Personalization → Taskbar.
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Under Taskbar items → Search, choose:
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Hidden → Removes it completely.
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Search icon only → Small magnifying glass.
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Search icon and label → Compact version with text.
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Search box → Full bar.
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👉 If you just want a cleaner look but still use search often, go for Search icon only.
Method 4: Remove Search Bar Using Registry Editor
⚠️ Advanced method (only if Settings doesn’t work). Always back up your registry first.
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Press Win + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Look for a key named SearchboxTaskbarMode.
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0= Hidden -
1= Icon only -
2= Icon + label -
3= Search box
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Double-click the key → Change value to 0.
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Restart Windows Explorer or reboot your PC.
✅ The search bar will be removed.
Method 5: Remove Search Bar with Group Policy Editor (Pro Users)
For Windows 11 Pro/Enterprise users:
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Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Look for “Do not allow search on the taskbar”.
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Double-click → Set to Enabled.
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Apply and restart Explorer.
Alternative Ways to Search Without the Search Bar
Even if you remove the search bar, you can still search easily:
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Windows + S → Opens search instantly.
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Start menu search → Press Windows key and type.
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File Explorer search → Built-in search box for files/folders.
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Voice search → Use Windows + H for voice typing.
Troubleshooting: Search Bar Not Hiding?
If the search bar won’t go away:
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Restart your PC.
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Update Windows 11 via Settings → Windows Update.
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Check registry value (see Method 4).
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Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager.
Tips for a Cleaner Taskbar in Windows 11
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Unpin unused apps → Right-click → Unpin from taskbar.
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Hide system tray icons → Settings → Personalization → Taskbar corner overflow.
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Auto-hide taskbar → Settings → Taskbar behaviors → Auto-hide.
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Use Taskbar alignment (center or left) for a balanced look.
Conclusion
The Windows 11 search bar is handy for some, but unnecessary for others. Thankfully, Microsoft makes it easy to hide, resize, or remove it completely.
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Use Taskbar settings (simplest method).
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For advanced control, tweak Registry Editor or Group Policy.
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Even without it, search remains accessible via shortcuts like Windows + S.
By removing the search bar, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, distraction-free taskbar tailored to your workflow.
FAQs
1. Can I completely disable search in Windows 11?
No, search is built-in, but you can hide the search bar and use shortcuts instead.
2. Does removing the search bar affect performance?
Yes, slightly. Hiding it can reduce background processes, making Windows a bit smoother.
3. Can I bring back the search bar later?
Absolutely. Go to Taskbar settings → Search → Enable.
4. Is the search bar different from Cortana?
Yes. Cortana is a voice assistant, while the search bar is just for system and web searches.
5. Will removing the search bar stop me from searching my PC?
No. You can still search via Windows key, Windows + S, or File Explorer.
✅ Key Takeaway: You don’t need to keep the Windows 11 search bar if you don’t use it. With a few clicks in Taskbar settings (or advanced tweaks), you can hide it and enjoy a minimalist, clutter-free taskbar.