The Windows 11 taskbar is an important part of the desktop interface that provides quick access to the Start menu, pinned apps, notifications, and system icons. By default, Windows 11 uses a medium-sized taskbar with centered icons and a modern design.
However, some users prefer a smaller taskbar to save screen space or a larger taskbar for better visibility. Unlike previous Windows versions, Windows 11 does not include a built-in option in the Settings app to adjust the taskbar size. Instead, the taskbar size can be changed by modifying a registry setting.
If you want to change the taskbar size in Windows 11, follow the steps below.
How to Change the Taskbar Size in Windows 11
You can modify the taskbar size using the Registry Editor.
1. Open the Registry Editor
First, open the Windows Registry Editor.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type: regedit
- Press Enter.
- Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control.
The Registry Editor will open.
2. Navigate to the Taskbar Registry Key
Next, go to the location where the taskbar size setting is stored.
- In the Registry Editor, navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- This folder contains several settings related to the Windows interface.
3. Create the Taskbar Size Value
You need to create a registry value to control the taskbar size.
- Right-click in the right pane.
- Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the value: TaskbarSi
- Double-click TaskbarSi to edit it.
4. Set the Taskbar Size
Enter one of the following values depending on the taskbar size you want:
- 0 – Small taskbar
- 1 – Medium taskbar (default)
- 2 – Large taskbar
Click OK after entering the value.
5. Restart Windows Explorer
You need to restart Windows Explorer for the change to take effect.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Locate Windows Explorer in the process list.
- Right-click Windows Explorer.
- Select Restart.
After Explorer restarts, the new taskbar size will be applied.
Conclusion
Although Windows 11 does not provide a direct option to resize the taskbar in the Settings app, you can change the taskbar size by modifying a registry value. By adjusting the TaskbarSi value, you can switch between small, medium, and large taskbar sizes depending on your preference.
Following the steps above allows you to customize the Windows 11 taskbar and improve your desktop layout according to your needs.
