When Windows 11 was first released, many users noticed a big change: the taskbar was redesigned with centered icons, a cleaner look, and fewer customization options compared to Windows 10. One of the most frequently asked questions is “How do I resize the taskbar in Windows 11?”
By default, Microsoft doesn’t provide a built-in option to change taskbar size. But don’t worry — in this step-by-step guide on how to resize taskbar Windows 11, we’ll cover different methods, from editing the Registry to using third-party tools.
Summary: Key Takeaways
-
Windows 11 doesn’t have a direct setting to resize the taskbar.
-
You can change taskbar size using Registry Editor hacks or third-party apps.
-
Taskbar can be set to small, medium (default), or large.
-
Always back up your Registry before making changes.
Why Resize the Taskbar in Windows 11?
You might want to resize the taskbar for several reasons:
-
🖥️ Save screen space with a smaller taskbar.
-
👀 Better visibility with a larger taskbar and bigger icons.
-
🛠️ Personal preference for customizing Windows.
-
⚡ Productivity — more taskbar space for pinned apps.
Method 1: Resize Taskbar Using Registry Editor
⚠️ Warning: Editing the Registry can affect system stability. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
-
Press Win + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. -
Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control.
Step 2: Navigate to Taskbar Settings
In Registry Editor, go to:
Step 3: Create a New DWORD
-
Right-click in the right panel → select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
-
Name it: TaskbarSi.
Step 4: Set Taskbar Size Value
-
0 = Small taskbar
-
1 = Medium (default)
-
2 = Large
-
Double-click TaskbarSi.
-
Enter the value (0, 1, or 2).
-
Click OK.
Step 5: Restart Explorer
-
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
-
Find Windows Explorer, right-click, and select Restart.
Your taskbar will resize immediately.
Method 2: Resize Taskbar with Third-Party Tools
If editing the Registry feels risky, you can use free tools like:
-
TaskbarXI → Customize taskbar size, position, and style.
-
ExplorerPatcher → Unlocks many hidden taskbar options.
-
StartAllBack → Paid app with deep customization.
Steps:
-
Download the tool from the official website.
-
Install and launch it.
-
Use the interface to adjust taskbar size.
👉 These apps are safer for beginners since they provide a graphical interface.
Method 3: Adjust Display Scaling (Alternative Trick)
Another way to indirectly change taskbar size is by adjusting Display Scaling.
-
Press Win + I to open Settings.
-
Go to System > Display.
-
Under Scale, choose a different percentage (e.g., 100%, 125%, 150%).
This enlarges or shrinks everything on your screen, including the taskbar.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Difficulty | Flexibility | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registry Editor | Moderate | Small/Medium/Large | Medium (system changes) |
| Third-Party Tools | Easy | Advanced customization | Low–Medium |
| Display Scaling | Easy | Affects all UI, not just taskbar | Low |
Troubleshooting Taskbar Resize Issues
-
Taskbar didn’t change after Registry edit? → Make sure you restarted Explorer.
-
Icons misaligned? → Use third-party tools for better control.
-
System unstable after Registry changes? → Delete the TaskbarSi key or restore Registry backup.
Best Practices Before Resizing Taskbar
-
Create a System Restore Point in case something goes wrong.
-
Only download tools from official sources.
-
Use the Registry method only if you’re comfortable with advanced tweaks.
Conclusion
Even though Windows 11 doesn’t include a direct option, you can still resize the taskbar using Registry Editor or third-party apps. Whether you prefer a compact look with more screen space or a large taskbar with bigger icons, these methods let you customize Windows 11 to fit your style.
To recap:
-
Use Registry Editor for built-in tweaks.
-
Try TaskbarXI, ExplorerPatcher, or StartAllBack for easier customization.
-
Adjust Display Scaling for a quick workaround.
With these steps, your Windows 11 taskbar will look and feel just the way you want.
FAQs About Resizing Taskbar in Windows 11
1. Can I resize the taskbar in Windows 11 without third-party apps?
Yes, by editing the Registry with the TaskbarSi key.
2. What are the available taskbar sizes?
Small (0), Medium (1), and Large (2).
3. Is resizing the taskbar safe?
Yes, if you follow instructions carefully and back up your Registry.
4. Do third-party tools slow down Windows 11?
No, trusted apps like TaskbarXI are lightweight and safe.
5. Can I move the taskbar to the top or side in Windows 11?
Not natively, but tools like ExplorerPatcher allow it.