Since Microsoft does not offer a native setting, third-party tools and registry hacks have emerged. These are not supported by Microsoft and may break with updates.
Last updated: 2025
ExplorerPatcher is a widely respected open-source utility. It functions by patching the Windows 11 Explorer process to restore the Windows 10 taskbar engine. This allows users to revert to the legacy behavior, including the native "Use small taskbar buttons" toggle found in Windows 10. This provides the most authentic "small icon" experience without sacrificing system stability. windows 11 taskbar small icons
Using unsupported methods to force a small taskbar in Windows 11 carries risks: Since Microsoft does not offer a native setting,