The Windows 11 Start menu features a redesigned layout that includes Pinned apps and a Recommended section. The pinned area displays your favorite applications for quick access, while the recommended section shows recently opened files, newly installed apps, and suggestions.
However, some users may want to change the number of pinned rows or recommended rows in the Start menu to better suit their workflow. For example, you might prefer to see more pinned apps and fewer recommendations, or vice versa. Windows 11 allows you to adjust this layout using built-in Start menu settings.
If you want to change pinned or recommended rows in the Windows 11 Start menu, follow the steps below.
How to Change Pinned or Recommended Rows in Windows 11 Start Menu
Follow these steps to adjust the Start menu layout.
1. Open Start Menu Personalization Settings
The Start menu layout can be customized through Windows personalization settings.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Click Personalization in the left panel.
- Select Start.
Here you will see several options related to the Start menu layout.
2. Choose the Start Menu Layout
Windows 11 allows you to adjust how much space is given to pinned apps or recommendations.
- In the Start settings, locate the Layout option.
- Choose one of the following options:
- More pins – Displays more pinned app rows and fewer recommendations.
- Default – Balanced layout between pinned apps and recommendations.
- More recommendations – Shows more recommended items and fewer pinned apps.
Selecting More pins increases the number of pinned app rows.
3. Remove Recommended Items (Optional)
If you prefer a cleaner Start menu, you can reduce or disable recommendations.
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Start.
- Turn off the following options:
- Show recently added apps
- Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer
This reduces the number of items shown in the Recommended section.
4. Pin More Apps to the Start Menu
If you selected More pins, you may want to add additional apps.
- Open the Start menu.
- Click All apps.
- Right-click the application you want to pin.
- Select Pin to Start.
The app will appear in the pinned section.
5. Rearrange Pinned Apps
You can also organize pinned apps for better accessibility.
- Open the Start menu.
- Click and drag a pinned app.
- Move it to your preferred position.
This allows you to group frequently used apps together.
Conclusion
Windows 11 allows users to customize the Start menu layout by adjusting the balance between pinned apps and recommended items. By choosing options like More pins, Default, or More recommendations, you can control how much space each section occupies.
Following the steps above, you can change the number of pinned or recommended rows, reduce unwanted suggestions, and organize your Start menu for a cleaner and more efficient Windows 11 experience.
