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How to Change the Taskbar Color in Windows 10

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 10 allows you to customize the color of the taskbar, Start menu, and other UI elements to match your personal style
  • You can choose from a variety of preset colors or create a custom accent color using RGB or hexadecimal values
  • Changing the taskbar color is a simple process that can be done through the Settings app or by modifying registry keys

As an experienced tech writer with over 5 years of experience writing about Windows and software customization, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to change the taskbar color in Windows 10.

The taskbar is an integral part of the Windows desktop experience, providing quick access to frequently used apps, system tray icons, and the Start menu. While the default color scheme works well for most users, some prefer to personalize the look and feel of their desktop environment. Fortunately, Windows 10 offers several options to customize the taskbar color to suit your preferences.

Changing Taskbar Color via Settings

The easiest way to change the taskbar color in Windows 10 is through the Settings app. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Start menu and click on the Settings icon (gear-shaped).
  2. In the Settings window, click on “Personalization.”
  3. On the left pane, select “Colors.”
  4. Under the “Choose your color” dropdown, select “Custom.”
  5. In the “Choose your default Windows mode” section, select “Dark.”
  6. Scroll down to the “Show accent color on the following surfaces” section and check the box next to “Start, taskbar, and action center.”
  7. Now, you can either choose a preset color from the “Windows colors” section or click the “Custom color” button to create your own accent color using RGB or hexadecimal values.
  8. Once you’ve selected your desired color, the taskbar, Start menu, and action center will update with the new accent color.

It’s important to note that the “Show accent color on the following surfaces” option is only available when you select the “Dark” mode under “Choose your default Windows mode.” If you choose “Light” mode, the taskbar color will remain the default light gray.

Customizing Taskbar Color via Registry

For more advanced users or those who prefer a more direct approach, you can change the taskbar color by modifying registry keys. However, it’s important to exercise caution when editing the registry, as incorrect modifications can cause system instability or even render your computer inoperable.

Here’s how to change the taskbar color via the registry:

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to launch the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  4. Right-click in the right pane and select “New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
  5. Name the new value TaskbarColorOverride.
  6. Double-click the TaskbarColorOverride value and enter the hexadecimal color code in the “Value data” field. For example, 0x00FF00 for green or 0x0000FF for blue.
  7. Exit the Registry Editor and restart the Explorer process by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager.”
  8. In the Task Manager window, navigate to the “Processes” tab, locate the “Windows Explorer” process, right-click on it, and select “Restart.”

The taskbar should now display the new color you specified in the registry.

Additional Customization Options

In addition to changing the taskbar color, Windows 10 offers several other customization options to personalize the look and feel of your desktop environment:

  • Transparency Effects: You can enable or disable transparency effects for the taskbar, Start menu, and action center by toggling the “Transparency effects” option in the Colors settings.
  • Title Bar Colors: If you want to apply the accent color to window title bars and borders, check the “Title bars and window borders” option under “Show accent color on the following surfaces.”
  • Start Menu Customization: You can further customize the Start menu by changing the tile layout, pinning or unpinning apps, and adjusting the size of the tiles.
  • Desktop Wallpaper: Changing your desktop wallpaper can also impact the overall look and feel of your desktop environment. Windows 10 offers a variety of built-in wallpapers, or you can use your own custom images.

By combining these customization options, you can create a truly personalized desktop experience that reflects your unique style and preferences.

Conclusion

Changing the taskbar color in Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to personalize your desktop environment. Whether you prefer a subtle accent color or a bold, vibrant hue, Windows 10 offers a range of options to suit your preferences. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily customize the taskbar color and create a desktop experience that is both visually appealing and tailored to your needs.

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