Windows 11 offers a sleek, modern design with customization options that allow users to personalize their desktop experience. One of the most requested features is the ability to change the taskbar color, helping users match their desktop’s look to their personal style. The taskbar is a central part of Windows, holding quick access to your applications, search bar, and system tray. By changing its color, you can give your computer a fresh, unique appearance.
This article will guide you step-by-step through the process of changing the taskbar color in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
To begin customizing your taskbar color, the first step is to open the Settings app in Windows 11. You can do this by:
1. Pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard, or
2. Clicking the Start Menu button and selecting Settings from the list of pinned apps, or
3. Typing “Settings” into the search bar next to the Start Menu and clicking on the Settings app.
Once the Settings window is open, you’ll be ready to move on to personalizing your taskbar color.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization Settings
In the Settings window, locate and click on the Personalization option from the left-hand sidebar. The Personalization menu is where you can adjust everything related to the visual appearance of your Windows 11 desktop, including themes, wallpapers, and colors.
Once you’re in the Personalization menu, you’ll see a variety of customization options. From here, we will focus on the taskbar color.
Step 3: Select the Colors Option
After opening the Personalization menu, find and click on the Colors option, which is located in the middle of the page. The Colors section allows you to change various visual aspects of your Windows 11 interface, including the accent color and how it affects certain elements like the taskbar, window borders, and Start Menu.
Step 4: Choose Accent Color
In the Colors menu, you’ll see a setting labeled Accent color. This setting determines the color applied to several parts of your interface, including the taskbar. You can choose from a variety of pre-selected colors or click View Colors to create a custom shade.
There are two options for how to select an accent color:
1. Manual Color Selection: Choose from the colors available, or select Custom Color to use a specific color that matches your preferences.
2. Automatic Color Selection: Windows can also pick an accent color based on your desktop wallpaper. To enable this, toggle the switch labeled Automatically pick an accent color from my background.
Step 5: Apply Accent Color to the Taskbar
Now that you’ve chosen your accent color, the final step is to apply that color to the taskbar. In the Colors menu, scroll down to find the setting labeled Show accent color on Start and taskbar. By default, this setting is turned off, which is why your taskbar may be stuck in its default color.
To change this, simply toggle the switch to On. Once enabled, your chosen accent color will immediately apply to both the taskbar and Start Menu.
Optional: Enable Dark Mode for Better Contrast
If your accent color doesn’t stand out or looks too bright on the taskbar, you may want to consider enabling dark mode. Dark mode enhances contrast, making the colors pop more. To enable dark mode:
1. Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
2. Under Choose your mode, select Dark from the drop-down menu.
This will give the taskbar a dark background, allowing your chosen color to stand out more vividly.
Step 6: Save and Enjoy Your New Taskbar Look
Once you’ve selected your preferred accent color and applied it to the taskbar, your customization is complete! You can now exit the Settings app, and the new taskbar color will remain until you decide to change it again.
Changing the taskbar color in Windows 11 is a simple way to personalize your desktop experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly apply a color that suits your style and preferences. Whether you’re going for a vibrant, bold look or a subtle, professional feel, Windows 11 offers flexibility to match your desktop design to your taste.
