Windows 11 introduced a redesigned Start Menu with a centered layout, simplified interface, and limited customization. While many users like the modern look, others prefer the classic Start Menu experience from Windows 7 or Windows 10, which offers better navigation, full app lists, and more control.
Unfortunately, Windows 11 does not include a built-in option to restore the classic Start Menu. However, you can still get a classic-style Start Menu using safe and reliable methods. In this guide, we’ll explain all the practical ways to get the classic Start Menu on Windows 11 and what each method offers.
How to Get the Classic Start Menu on Windows 11
Below are the best ways to bring back a familiar Start Menu experience. Choose the method that best fits your needs.
1. Use Start Menu Settings to Make It More “Classic”
While this does not fully restore the old Start Menu, it improves usability.
- Open Settings
- Go to Personalization
- Click Start
- Enable or adjust:
- Show more pins
- Show recently added apps
- Show recommended files
- Turn off recommendations if you prefer a cleaner look
This helps reduce clutter but does not change the overall design.
2. Move the Start Button to the Left
This restores the familiar left-aligned Start button layout.
- Open Settings
- Go to Personalization
- Select Taskbar
- Click Taskbar behaviors
- Set Taskbar alignment to Left
This is the closest native option to the classic Windows layout.
3. Use Third-Party Start Menu Tools (Best Option)
To fully restore a classic Start Menu, third-party tools are required. These tools replace the Windows 11 Start Menu with a classic-style one.
- Restore Windows 7 or Windows 10 Start Menu style
- Enable full app lists
- Bring back classic search behavior
- Customize Start Menu layout and appearance
- Restore classic right-click options
- Download only from official sources
- Avoid unknown or bundled installers
- Review customization options carefully
This is the only way to get a true classic Start Menu on Windows 11.
4. Use Registry Tweaks (Limited and Not Recommended)
Some registry edits previously enabled classic menus, but most no longer work reliably.
- Registry changes can break system stability
- Many old tweaks no longer function in recent updates
- Microsoft actively removes unsupported behavior
For most users, registry edits are not a safe or effective solution.
5. Customize Taskbar and Explorer for a Classic Feel
Even without changing the Start Menu itself, you can make Windows 11 feel more classic.
- Enable classic right-click menu in File Explorer
- Disable taskbar widgets
- Remove unnecessary taskbar icons
- Use classic icons where possible
These changes improve familiarity and reduce the “modern” feel.
Wrapping Up
With that, we wrap up our complete guide on how to get the classic Start Menu on Windows 11. While Microsoft does not officially support restoring the old Start Menu design, you still have reliable options to make Windows 11 feel more familiar—especially through trusted third-party Start Menu replacements.
By adjusting built-in settings for minor improvements or using classic Start Menu tools for a full transformation, you can customize Windows 11 to better match your workflow and preferences.
