If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you may have noticed that the taskbar icons feel smaller compared to what you were used to in Windows 10. For some people, that’s fine. But if you prefer bigger, easier-to-see icons, or you just want a different look, you might be wondering: Can I enlarge the taskbar icons in Windows 11?
The short answer: Yes — but it requires a few tweaks. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to make your taskbar icons bigger in Windows 11.
Why Enlarge Taskbar Icons in Windows 11?
Better Visibility
Bigger icons are easier to see, especially on high-resolution displays or for users with vision difficulties.
Personal Preference
Some people simply like the look of larger icons — it makes the taskbar feel more comfortable and modern.
Touchscreen Convenience
If you use a touchscreen device, larger icons are easier to tap.
Method 1: Change Taskbar Size Using Registry Editor
Windows 11 doesn’t include a direct option in Settings to resize taskbar icons, but you can tweak it using the Registry Editor.
⚠️ Important: Be careful when editing the registry. Changing the wrong value could affect system behavior. Always back up your registry first.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. - Navigate to this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced - Right-click in the right pane → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name it:
TaskbarSi - Double-click TaskbarSi and set the value to:
0= Small icons1= Default icons2= Large icons
- Click OK and close Registry Editor.
- Restart your PC (or restart Windows Explorer from Task Manager).
Your taskbar icons should now appear larger!
Method 2: Adjust Display Scaling
If you don’t want to mess with the registry, you can change the display scaling.
Steps:
- Right-click on your desktop and choose Display settings.
- Under Scale & layout, find Scale.
- Change it from 100% to 125% or higher.
This enlarges everything on your screen, including taskbar icons, text, and apps.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Tools
There are handy apps that let you customize the Windows 11 taskbar without digging into the registry.
Popular Tools:
- StartAllBack – Lets you resize taskbar icons, change styles, and even bring back the Windows 10 taskbar look.
- ExplorerPatcher – Free tool that restores taskbar customization options.
These apps are safe and widely used, but stick to official downloads to avoid risks.
Method 4: Switch to Tablet Mode (on Touch Devices)
If you’re using a touchscreen laptop or tablet, switching to tablet mode often enlarges taskbar icons for easier tapping.
- Open Settings → System → Tablet.
- Adjust tablet mode behaviors.
Method 5: Custom Icon Packs
For users who love personalization, installing custom icon packs can give your taskbar a completely different look. Some packs naturally appear larger and bolder.
How to Revert Back to Default Size
If you decide larger icons aren’t for you:
- Registry Editor: Change
TaskbarSivalue back to1. - Display Settings: Reset scale to 100%.
- Third-Party Tools: Disable or uninstall the program.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Icons Didn’t Change After Editing Registry
- Make sure you restarted Windows Explorer or rebooted your PC.
Text Looks Blurry After Scaling
- Try a different scale percentage (like 125% instead of 150%).
Taskbar Layout Looks Broken
- Restore default registry settings or uninstall any conflicting third-party tool.
Tips for Taskbar Customization
- Pin your most-used apps for quick access.
- Use Taskbar alignment (left or center) to match your workflow.
- Combine larger icons with a transparent or custom-colored taskbar for a fresh look.
Conclusion
Enlarging taskbar icons in Windows 11 isn’t as straightforward as it was in earlier versions, but it’s definitely possible. Whether you use the Registry Editor, tweak display scaling, or install a third-party tool, you can make your taskbar icons easier to see and more comfortable to use. Once you’ve customized it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!
FAQs
1. Is there an official setting in Windows 11 to resize taskbar icons?
No, Microsoft removed the direct setting, but you can still change it via Registry Editor or third-party apps.
2. Will changing the taskbar size affect performance?
No, resizing icons doesn’t impact system performance.
3. Can I make taskbar icons smaller instead of bigger?
Yes, in the registry, setting TaskbarSi to 0 makes them smaller.
4. Is it safe to use StartAllBack or ExplorerPatcher?
Yes, both are widely used. Just make sure to download from their official websites.
5. Will display scaling enlarge only taskbar icons?
No, scaling increases the size of everything — apps, text, and taskbar icons.