Changing the accent color in the Windows 11 Start menu can personalize your computer and make it visually appealing. Accent colors highlight important parts of the interface, such as the Start menu, taskbar, and window borders.
This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that even beginners can follow along without confusion. By the end, you’ll know how to adjust your accent color to match your style or mood.
Customizing the accent color is straightforward and can be reversed anytime if you want to try different looks. Let’s get started with the basics.
Before you begin, make sure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version for the best experience.
Quick Note
- Ensure your Windows 11 system is up to date. Accent color options may vary in older versions.
- You need to be logged into your Windows user account with access to personalize settings.
- The accent color affects multiple interface elements, so changes will reflect beyond the Start menu.
- Some themes or high contrast settings might limit color customization options.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
First, click on the Start button located at the bottom-left corner of your screen, or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
From the Start menu, select the Settings icon, which looks like a gear. Alternatively, you can press Windows + I keys together to open Settings directly.
Settings is where you control many aspects of your Windows experience, including personalization options like accent colors.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Once the Settings window opens, look at the left sidebar and find the Personalization section. Click on it.
This section lets you customize your desktop background, colors, themes, and more.
Step 3: Select Colors
In the Personalization menu, click on Colors. This will bring up options related to the color scheme of your Windows interface.
Here, you can adjust how Windows displays colors across your apps, menus, and system elements.
Step 4: Choose Your Accent Color
Scroll down until you see the Accent color section. You will find two main options:
- Automatically pick an accent color from my background: Windows will choose a color that matches your current wallpaper.
- Manual color selection: You can pick any color from a palette.
If you want to manually select a color, uncheck the automatic option and choose your preferred color from the palette below.
Step 5: Apply Accent Color to Start Menu
To ensure that the accent color applies to the Start menu and other interface elements like the taskbar, scroll down to the section labeled Show accent color on the following surfaces.
Check the box for Start and taskbar. This step is essential because, by default, Windows might not apply the accent color to these areas.
Step 6: Confirm and Close Settings
Once you have selected and applied your accent color, simply close the Settings window. Your Start menu and taskbar should now display the new accent color.
If you don’t see the changes immediately, try restarting your computer or signing out and back in.
Alternative Method: Use Themes to Change Accent Colors
If you want a broader customization, you can also change accent colors by applying different themes.
- In the Personalization settings, click on Themes.
- Choose from built-in themes or download new ones from the Microsoft Store.
- The selected theme will automatically change the accent colors along with wallpapers and sounds.
This method is useful if you prefer a coordinated look without manually picking colors.
FAQs
Can I use any custom color for the accent?
Yes, Windows 11 lets you pick any color from the palette provided. However, very bright or very dark colors might affect readability in some interface areas.
Why isn’t my accent color showing on the Start menu?
Make sure the option Show accent color on Start and taskbar is checked in the Colors settings. Also, some themes or high contrast modes might override this setting.
Can I disable accent colors completely?
Yes, you can switch to the default “Light” or “Dark” mode without accent colors, or uncheck all accent color options. This will give a more neutral look.
Will changing the accent color affect other apps?
Accent colors mainly affect Windows system UI elements like the Start menu, taskbar, window borders, and some apps that use system themes. It won’t change colors inside all third-party apps.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried these steps and your accent color still does not change, consider the following:
- Restart your PC to refresh system settings.
- Check for Windows updates in Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.
- Make sure no third-party themes or customization software is overriding default system settings.
- Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 personalization issues: Microsoft Support.
Conclusion
Changing the accent color in Windows 11 Start menu is a simple yet effective way to personalize your PC. By following this step-by-step guide, you can quickly select and apply colors that suit your taste.
Remember to check that the accent color is enabled for the Start menu and taskbar to see your changes. Whether you choose a manual color or let Windows pick one based on your wallpaper, the flexibility helps keep your desktop fresh and enjoyable.
Experiment with different colors or themes to find the perfect look for your Windows 11 experience!