There are numerous ways to customise the look and feel of Windows which I will cover in this post. Especially since Windows 11 is the least customisable version of Windows, as if Microsoft forgot that people might want the taskbar on the side or the top of their screen, so it is stuck at the bottom unless you run one of these tools to fix it.
WinAreo Tweaker
WinAero Tweaker is a free program that enables you to tweak the hidden settings in Windows so that it will look and feel the way you prefer it to. The tool works for Windows 7 all the way to Windows 11.
WindHawk
WindHawk is a customisation platform where you can install mods to Windows easily.
I’m using the Taskbar Volume Control which gives the ability to control the volume simply by hovering over the taskbar and using the mouse scroll to adjust the volume. Ideal on a desktop computer without volume keys.
Ultimate Windows Tweaker
TheWindowsClub has their Ultimate Windows Tweaker:
- Version 5 for Windows 11
- Version 4 for Windows 10
- Version 3 for Windows 8
- Version 2.2 for Windows Vista and 7
The Tweaker can provide performance and security tweaks along with the look and feel of Windows.
Object Desktop
Stardock Object Desktop is a suite of tools that allow you to customise the look and feel of Windows, these can also be purchased separately:
- Start11 provides customisation of the start menu and start button along with the taskbar.
- Fences provides organised areas on your desktop which can be coloured, sized and sorted to your preference.
- Groupy allows you to group different applications together as tabs of one group.
- Multiplicity allows you to control multiple computers with just a single keyboard and mouse.
- CursorFX enables you to replace the cursor on your computer with custom ones.
- ObjectDock provides a convenient place to dock common folders and programs.
- DeskScapes provides you with animated desktop pictures and video.
- WindowBlinds provides the ability to style and skin Windows exactly how you see fit.
KeyPirinha
Keypirinha is a tool for people who prefer to use the keyboard to perform searches and activity as it is faster than using a mouse.
The Launchpad (which opens on the key combination Ctrl+Win+K but can be changed) can search your apps to find one to run, can search your bookmarks, and lots of other features by means of supplied “packages”. You can also install 3rd party packages that extend the features of KeyPirinha.
Start11
Start11 enables you to customise the Windows startup menu and start button so you can change it to suit how you feel, like enable Windows 7 style
