Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Windows 11 has no documented built-in switch to restore the Windows 10 Start menu layout. You can make its current menu more familiar with pinned apps, folders, and other Start settings; for a different classic-style menu, you’ll need a third-party replacement or shell utility.
Make the built-in Windows 11 Start menu more familiar
Windows 11’s settings customize its current Start menu; they do not bring back the Windows 10 tile layout. To adjust it, open Settings > Personalization > Start, or open Start, right-click an item, and use the available pin controls. Microsoft describes the menu’s areas and options in its Start menu customization guide.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Organize pinned apps. Pin the apps and shortcuts you use often. Right-click a pin and select Unpin from Start to remove it. Drag pins to reorder them, or drag one pin onto another to create a folder.
- Choose the opening view. Select Show all to have the Pinned section expanded when Start opens. In the All section, choose Category, Grid, or List; Windows remembers the last view you selected.
- Reduce Recommendations. Remove unwanted pins and turn off the recommendation providers available in Start settings. Microsoft says the sections collapse when all recommended providers are turned off or all pins are removed.
- Add folder shortcuts. In Start settings, open Folders and select common locations—including Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, Videos, Network, or Personal folder—to show them beside the power button.
Move the taskbar icons to the left
If the centered taskbar makes Start feel unfamiliar, right-click the taskbar and choose Taskbar settings. Expand Taskbar behaviors, then set Taskbar alignment to Left. This changes the position of the taskbar icons, not the Start menu’s design. See Microsoft’s taskbar customization guide.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Consider a third-party Start menu or shell utility
Third-party tools can offer alternate menus or shell behavior, but they are not an official Windows setting that restores the original Windows 10 menu. Their stated scope differs, and none of the cited product pages establishes a single best choice. Compare the design you want, the tool’s listed features, compatibility with your installed Windows 11 build, project or vendor support, and cost before installing.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Amazon Basics Wired QWERTY Keyboard, Works with Windows, Plug and Play, Easy to Use with Media Control, Full-Sized, Black
- 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.
| Utility | What its project or vendor says | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Start11 | Stardock describes it as a Start menu replacement for Windows 10 and 11, with multiple styles including classic-inspired layouts. | The product description does not establish that every style reproduces the Windows 10 menu feature for feature. Check the desired style, current Windows-build compatibility, vendor support, and cost. |
| Open-Shell-Menu | The project describes a classic-style Start menu for Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11. | The project page is old; verify current release status and compatibility with your Windows build before relying on it. |
| ExplorerPatcher | The project wiki describes shell enhancements, including opening Start to All apps and choosing Windows 10 or Windows NT-style shell components. | The cited wiki page does not guarantee compatibility with every current Windows build. Check its current project information and support before installation. |
Choose based on the layout you actually want
- If you mainly want familiar app access and a less prominent Recommendations area, try Windows’ built-in pin, view, and recommendation settings first.
- If you want a classic-inspired replacement menu, compare the exact styles offered by Start11 or Open-Shell with the layout you have in mind.
- If you are considering changes to other shell components as well as Start, review ExplorerPatcher’s stated features and build compatibility carefully.
Before installing any utility, confirm that it supports your exact Windows 11 release and offers the menu behavior you expect. A “classic” label alone does not establish a feature-for-feature Windows 10 layout.
Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 3
SaleBestseller No. 4
Best Value
Arteck Backlit USB Wired Full Size Keyboard with Media Hotkey for PC and Laptop
- 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.
Rank #4
Sale
Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black | Full size wired keyboard, optical wired mouse, USB plug-and-play, Windows only, pc and laptop compatible
- 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
Rank #3
Sale
Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black | Full-size keyboard with number pad, 8 multimedia keys, includes USB-A receiver, 2-year battery, compatible with PC, laptop
- 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
Rank #2
Sale
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black
- 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*
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.
