Windows users have long relied on the iconic Start menu and button. Windows 8 shocked many by replacing it with a full-screen Start screen for tablets, removing the Start button and power options, leaving desktop users confused. Windows 8.1 restored the button but kept the screen. Windows 10 finally delivered flexibility, blending menu and screen with extensive customization—refined through beta testing into a polished experience.
Explore these proven customization options to tailor your Windows 10 Start menu to your workflow.
Unlike Windows 7 or 8.1, the Windows 10 Start menu offers unmatched flexibility. Resize it by dragging edges, expanding to occupy up to 70% of the screen. For full immersion, enable full-screen mode later in this guide.
Customize colors via Settings > Personalization > Colors. Your selection applies to the menu background and non-live tiles (one solid color only). Enable auto-pick from wallpaper for effortless matching.
Pro Tip: Accent the white title bar with colors—search our guide for details.
Windows 7 featured quick links to folders like Videos, Downloads, and Pictures. Windows 10 omits them by default (only Settings and File Explorer show), but ample space allows additions. Access via Settings.
Right-click desktop > Personalize > Start > Choose which folders appear on Start.
Toggle switches for desired folders.
Adding more may push out frequent apps, but a larger menu accommodates everything.
Pin frequently accessed settings for quick tweaks during setup. Open a Settings app, right-click > Pin to Start. Tiles appear on the right side, not left list. Same for Control Panel items.
Prefer Windows 8's full Start screen or tablet mode? Right-click desktop > Personalize > Start > Use full screen Start menu.
Enjoy the immersive view while retaining sidebar access.
Organize tiles (e.g., games, settings) by dragging to the menu bottom. A gray separator appears—drop to create a group, then name and populate it.
These tweaks unlock the full power of Windows 10's Start menu. Missed a tip? Share in the comments below.
