Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteTo customize Windows 11’s Start menu, open Settings > Personalization > Start. There you can change how much space is devoted to pinned apps and recommendations, switch recommendation sources on or off, and choose shortcuts shown beside the Power button. To group pinned apps, drag one pin onto another; to add folder shortcuts, use the separate Folders control.
Open the Start menu settings
Go to Settings > Personalization > Start. You can also open Start, right-click near the bottom of the menu, and choose Start settings. Windows 11 feature updates can change available options or labels, so follow the wording shown on your PC. Microsoft Support’s Start menu guide documents these controls.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choose the balance between pins and recommendations
Start has Pinned, Recommended, and All areas. The Recommended area can show recently added and frequently used apps, as well as recently opened files. In Start settings, turn off the recommendation providers whose content you do not want.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Layout options let you choose how much space to give pinned items versus recommended content. A pin-heavy layout prioritizes apps you select; a layout with more recommendation space gives the menu more room for recent or frequently used material. These are different navigation preferences rather than a universally best arrangement.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
If you disable every recommendation provider, the Recommended section collapses. The Pinned section also collapses if you remove every pin. Start remembers the most recent view of Pinned and All.
Organize pinned apps into folders
- Open Start and locate the pinned app you want to group.
- Drag one pinned item on top of another. Microsoft Support describes the action this way: “To create a folder, drag one pinned item over another to create a folder.”
- Rename the new folder, then drag additional pinned apps into it as needed.
- To take an app out, open the folder and drag the pin out. Microsoft says the folder disappears when only one pin remains.
These folders group pinned apps inside Start. They are not shortcuts to locations such as Documents or Downloads beside the Power button.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Add folder shortcuts beside the Power button
For shortcuts to common locations, open Settings > Personalization > Start, select Folders, and switch on the locations you want. Microsoft lists Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, Videos, Network, and Personal folder. The labels and presentation can vary by Windows build.
Choose how All apps is displayed
In the All apps area, Microsoft lists three views: Category, Grid, and List. Category groups apps, while Grid and List provide different ways to scan the installed-app collection. Start remembers the most recent view you selected.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Manage recommendations separately from app-launch tracking
The recommendation-provider switches in Start settings control which types of material can appear in Recommended. A separate privacy option governs whether Windows uses app launches to personalize Start and search results. To find it, open Settings > Privacy & security > Recommendations & offers, then locate Let Windows improve Start and search results by tracking app launches. Microsoft says Windows can use information about launched apps for that personalization. Microsoft’s privacy settings documentation describes this setting.
These controls do different jobs: turning off recommendation providers changes what sources supply Recommended content, while the app-launch option concerns use of launch information for personalization. Microsoft describes “Personalized offers” as potentially including tips, ads, and recommendations about Microsoft and third-party products and services; that broader description does not mean every item in Start’s Recommended area is an advertisement.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Keyboard navigation and a related taskbar setting
If you use a screen reader, Microsoft documents navigation among Pinned, All apps, and Recommended. After focusing a section, use the arrow keys to move through its items. Microsoft’s Start menu screen-reader instructions provide the keyboard guidance.
The taskbar option Show recently opened items in Jump Lists on Start or the taskbar applies to Jump Lists. It is not the master switch for Start’s Recommended section. Microsoft’s taskbar documentation covers that separate control.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
