Changing the accent color in Windows 11 lets you personalize your desktop experience. It affects the colors of Start menu, taskbar, and other UI elements. Customizing these colors can make your workspace more pleasant and easier on the eyes.
This guide will take you through the process step-by-step. No technical knowledge is required, and each instruction is explained clearly. Follow along to give your Windows 11 a fresh new look.
Whether you want a subtle shade or a vibrant color, Windows 11 makes it simple. Let’s start with the basics and move to some advanced options.
By the end, you’ll know how to change and fine-tune your accent color with ease.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Accent color options may vary slightly in older versions.
- You should have administrative rights on your PC to access some personalization settings.
- Changing accent colors doesn’t affect your wallpaper or themes but works alongside them.
- Some apps might not fully support accent color changes depending on their design.
How to Change the Accent Color in Windows 11
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar, then select the Settings gear icon. Alternatively, you can press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
In the Settings window, find and click on Personalization from the left sidebar. This section controls themes, backgrounds, colors, and other visual options.
Step 3: Select Colors
Within the Personalization menu, click on Colors. Here you will find the options to customize the color scheme of your Windows interface.
Step 4: Choose Your Accent Color
Scroll down to the Accent color section. You will see several color options. You can:
- Pick one of the preset colors shown by clicking on a color swatch.
- Or, select View colors to open a color picker where you can choose any custom color.
Choosing a color here will apply it to highlights, buttons, and other elements across Windows.
Step 5: Apply Accent Color to Start, Taskbar, and Title Bars
Below the color picker, you will find two checkboxes:
- Show accent color on Start and taskbar
- Show accent color on title bars and windows borders
Check these boxes if you want your chosen accent color to be visible in these areas. This adds a more personalized and cohesive look to your desktop.
Step 6: Choose Light or Dark Mode (Optional)
Above the accent color options, you can select your Choose your mode preference:
- Light – Bright backgrounds with dark text.
- Dark – Dark backgrounds with light text, easier on the eyes in low light.
- Custom – Allows you to mix light and dark modes for different UI parts.
The accent color will look different depending on your chosen mode, so feel free to experiment.
Alternative Method: Using the Windows Terminal or Registry (Advanced)
If you prefer using command-line tools or want to script the change, you can modify the accent color via the Windows Registry or PowerShell commands. However, this is recommended only for advanced users as incorrect changes can affect system stability.
For most users, the Settings app method is simpler and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use any color as my accent color?
Yes. You can select any color via the color picker, allowing for full customization beyond the preset options.
Why doesn’t my accent color change on the taskbar?
Make sure you have checked the box Show accent color on Start and taskbar. Also, accent colors do not apply when Windows is in light mode unless you switch to dark or custom modes.
Will changing the accent color affect my desktop wallpaper?
No, changing the accent color only affects UI elements like borders, buttons, and highlights. Your wallpaper remains unchanged.
Is it possible to save and export my accent color settings?
Windows 11 does not offer a built-in way to export accent colors alone, but you can save entire themes which include your accent color, wallpaper, and other settings.
Why do some apps not reflect the accent color?
Third-party apps may not support Windows accent colors or may have their own color settings. Microsoft apps generally support accent colors fully.
When Nothing Works
If your accent color changes are not applying correctly or the options are missing, try these final steps:
- Restart your PC to refresh system settings.
- Check for Windows updates by going to Settings > Windows Update and installing any pending updates.
- Run the built-in troubleshooter for personalization (Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters).
- Reset your personalization settings by creating a new user profile and testing if accent colors work there.
- Consult the official Microsoft support site or community forums for your specific issue.
Conclusion
Changing and customizing your accent color in Windows 11 is a straightforward way to make your PC feel more personal and visually appealing. By following the simple steps in the Settings app, you can pick any color you like and apply it across key parts of your interface.
Remember to explore light, dark, and custom modes to find the best look for your environment. If you run into issues, the troubleshooting tips and FAQs will help you resolve common problems quickly.
With these instructions, you can confidently adjust your Windows 11 accent color to match your style and preferences.