I just upgraded to Windows 11 after installing a new CPU and GPU (9950X3D + 5090), hoping for some improvements. While I managed to fix the annoying right-click context menu with a registry edit, the new Start Menu is a nightmare! There's a huge 'Recommended' section I can't get rid of, and I can't even resize it. I'm really struggling to adjust. Any tips on how to better manage this horrible Start Menu? Also, is it possible to change shortcut keys for functions? I used to use Alt-S with DisplayFusion to move windows, but the built-in option (Windows-Shift-LeftArrow) is cumbersome. I'd love to switch back to my old shortcut without reinstalling DisplayFusion.
6 Answers
I've tried using Open-Shell and WindHawk to improve my Start Menu experience in Windows 11. I also recommend checking out PowerToys. The Keyboard Manager feature can really help in customizing shortcuts, too!
Honestly, the Start Menu is just frustrating. If you're up for it, install PowerToys and get used to using ALT + SPACE for quicker access to functions. You might find it easier!
It opens the PowerToys Run feature, which can be super handy!
To declutter that massive Start Menu, try turning off tiles and disabling suggestions and recommendations. It feels like the Design team forgot about us 1080p users!
I think that might help, but it sounds like a bit of a hassle to dig through settings...
It can be a pain, but once you get it set, it might just be worth it!
Hey there! I feel your pain with the Start Menu. Honestly, I’ve found that just hitting the Windows key and searching for what I need works best for me. I don't stress too much about it anymore. Windows does its thing, and I just adapt!
True, but when you have tons of programs, it's tough remembering where everything is!
Are you going for a free option with that? I find sometimes knowing generally where things are can help too.
If you want a more classic feel, Stardock’s Start11 is a good investment ($10). It brings back a familiar Windows 7/10 style Start Menu. I used it before I switched to Linux, and it worked well.
I've seen Start11 too! It's great that there are options, but I'm hoping someone will build something free just because the changes are so annoying!
Exactly! It feels like a lot of us have had similar frustrations with these changes.
You can try using Start11, StartAllBack, or even ExplorerPatcher if you're feeling adventurous. Start11 and StartAllBack are paid but pretty affordable, and you can tweak them a lot. If you're looking for free options, ExplorerPatcher and WindHawk are good, but they can get buggy after updates. They generally get the job done if you're looking for a quick fix!
Thanks for the tips! I’m going to check out Start11 next.
Good choice! Start11 has a lot of customizable options!
What does ALT + SPACE do with PowerToys?