Windows 11 features a fresh, modern design that includes elegant rounded corners, a centered taskbar, and new animations. While many users appreciate these aesthetic changes, some might find the aesthetics distracting or simply prefer the sharper, more traditional look offered by its predecessor, Windows 10. Fortunately, you can adjust or modify various design elements in Windows 11 to reduce or remove the appearance of rounded corners. This article explores several methods and tips for achieving a more traditional, rectangular window style in Windows 11.
Understanding Rounded Corners in Windows 11
Rounded corners are part of Microsoft’s Fluent Design System. Introduced with Windows 10 and refined in Windows 11, this design philosophy emphasizes depth, motion, and light to create a more approachable and inviting interface. While the design is primarily aimed at improving the user interface for touchscreen devices and modern displays, some users find that these rounded corners reduce the visual clarity of their applications and windows.
By modifying visual settings, using third-party tools, or changing display resolutions, users can achieve a more angular window appearance. Below are several approaches to constraining the rounded corners to align with personal preferences and improve usability.
Method 1: Adjusting Windows Settings
1.1 Using High Contrast Mode
One way to reduce the impact of rounded corners is to enable High Contrast Mode. This mode alters the visual presentation of Windows, providing distinct colors and clearer lines to distinguish different interface elements. While it doesn’t remove rounded corners, it emphasizes edges and can make them appear less pronounced.
Steps to Enable High Contrast Mode:
1.2 Customizing Colors
Another option within Windows settings is to customize the overall color scheme. Changing the color settings can help in reducing the visual impact of rounded corners.
Steps to Customize Colors:
1.3 Reducing Animation and Transparency Effects
By reducing or eliminating animation and transparency, you can create sharper visual lines on your display, making rounded corners appear less noticeable.
Steps to Adjust Animation:
Method 2: Modifying Registry Settings
If you’re comfortable making changes to your Registry Editor, you can adjust specific settings that might influence the rendering of window shapes.
2.1 Accessing the Registry Editor
Before making changes to the registry, it’s vital to back it up to prevent any unintended system behavior.
Steps to Back Up the Registry:
2.2 Adjusting Window Borders
You can modify specific values that control window border settings.
Steps to Change Border Settings:
Method 3: Using Third-Party Applications
For users who are seeking a more reliable, consistent method to modify the appearance of Windows, consider using third-party applications. There are various tools designed to customize Windows UI elements.
3.1 WindowBlinds
WindowBlinds is a popular application that allows users to change the appearance of the Windows user interface, including window corners.
Steps to Use WindowBlinds:
3.2 Classic Shell
Classic Shell is another tool that can help restore some of the original Windows 10 interface styles.
Steps to Use Classic Shell:
Method 4: DPI and Display Scaling
4.1 Adjusting Display Resolution
Changing your display resolution can also impact the way elements appear on your screen, including window shapes. Higher resolutions may sharpen the look of rounded corners, while lower resolutions might not.
Steps to Change Display Resolution:
4.2 DPI Scaling
DPI scaling adjusts the size of text, apps, and other items to maintain usability across different screen sizes.
Steps to Adjust DPI Scaling:
Conclusion
While Windows 11 showcases an elegant design with rounded corners, it’s possible to modify or adjust these features according to your preferences. Whether you choose to tweak standard Windows settings, delve into the Registry Editor, or use third-party applications, you’ve got a range of options to tailor the user experience.
It’s essential to remember that any major changes should be approached with caution. Always back up your system settings and data before making significant adjustments, particularly when using tools like the Registry Editor or third-party software.
By implementing the right combination of methods discussed above, you can achieve a Windows experience that fits your aesthetic tastes and functional requirements. So take control of your workspace, reduce those rounded corners, and create a more personalized computing environment tailored to you!