How to Change the Taskbar Position in Windows 11 Easily!

How to Change the Taskbar Position in Windows 11 – Ever since I upgraded to Windows 11, I’ve been annoyed by one thing because the taskbar is stuck at the bottom. I’ve always preferred having it at the top or side, so this limitation felt frustrating. But guess what? Microsoft removed the built-in option to move it! 😩

I spent hours searching for a solution, and surprisingly, I found several ways to move the taskbar in Windows 11. If you’re struggling with the same issue, don’t worry, because I’ve got your back! Let me share my personal journey and the step-by-step fixes that actually work.

Why Is the Taskbar Stuck at the Bottom in Windows 11?

Before we jump into the solutions, let’s talk about why Microsoft did this in the first place, so you understand the reason:

• Windows 11’s new UI is designed with a centered taskbar because Microsoft wants a modern look.
• They removed customization options, which made it harder to reposition the taskbar.
• Microsoft claims usability and consistency as the main reasons, although many users disagree.

Honestly, I find this decision frustrating, but don’t worry, because I’ve found ways to bypass this limitation! 😏

Method 1: Changing Taskbar Position Using Registry Editor

This is the most reliable method, but it involves editing the Windows Registry, which means you need to be careful. Follow these steps exactly:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter immediately.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StuckRects3
3. Double-click on Settings, and then a new window will appear.
4. Locate the second row, fifth column (it usually contains 03), and be careful not to edit anything else.
5. Change the value to:
   • 03 → Bottom (Default), which is the standard setting.
   • 01 → Top, which moves the taskbar to the upper part of the screen.
   • 00 → Left, if you prefer it on the side.
   • 02 → Right, which places it on the opposite side.
6. Click OK, then restart Windows Explorer, so the changes take effect:
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, which is the quickest way.
   • Find Windows Explorer, right-click, and select Restart, so the taskbar refreshes instantly.

🔹 My Experience: I changed mine to 01 (Top), and surprisingly, it worked instantly! However, after a Windows update, it reverted back to the bottom, so I had to repeat the process. 😭

Method 2: Using Third-Party Tools

If editing the registry sounds scary, then you can use a third-party app, which is much easier. Here are the best options I tested:

1. ExplorerPatcher

• Restores the classic Windows 10 taskbar, so you get full control.
• Lets you move the taskbar freely, which solves the problem instantly.
• Easy to install and completely free, so you don’t have to spend anything.

2. Start11 (Paid)

• Offers full taskbar customization, so you can place it anywhere.
• Moves the taskbar to any position, which Windows 11 doesn’t allow by default.
• Costs around $5, which is reasonable if you want premium features.

3. Taskbar11

• Simple tool for moving the taskbar, so you don’t need registry edits.
• Works smoothly without modifying system files, which makes it safer.

🔹 My Experience: I personally use ExplorerPatcher because it’s free and works great. It even brings back the Windows 10 Start Menu, which I miss so much! 🥹

Issues & Limitations You Should Know

Before you try these methods, here are some things you should be aware of, so you don’t run into problems:

• Registry method might reset after Windows updates, which means you may need to do it again.
• Microsoft may block third-party apps in future updates, so some tools may stop working.
• Bugs & glitches might occur, especially if you edit the registry incorrectly.
• Taskbar may become unresponsive, although this issue is rare.

🔹 My Experience: I once messed up my Registry settings, and my taskbar completely disappeared! Luckily, I restored it using System Restore, so nothing was permanently broken. So, always back up your registry first, because mistakes can happen!

Alternative Customization Options

If you can’t move the taskbar, then here are other ways to customize it, so you still get some level of personalization:

• Align icons to the left, which feels more like Windows 10: Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors.
• Change taskbar size, which requires editing the registry: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced, then modify TaskbarSi.
• Enable taskbar transparency, which makes it look better: Settings > Personalization > Colors and turn on Transparency Effects.

🔹 My Experience: I moved my icons to the left because I miss the classic layout, which feels much more natural than the centered look. 🤩

Also Read: Bluetooth Option Disappeared Windows 11? Fix It Fast!

FAQs: How to Change the Taskbar Position in Windows 11

Can I move the taskbar without using the registry?

No, Windows 11 doesn’t have a built-in setting for this, but you can use third-party tools like ExplorerPatcher or Start11, so you still have options.

Is it safe to modify the Windows registry?

Yes, if you follow the steps carefully, so you don’t make mistakes. But always back up your registry before making changes, which prevents problems.

Will Microsoft bring back the taskbar position setting?

There’s no official confirmation, but many users have requested this feature, so it’s possible in future updates. Fingers crossed! 🤞

What if my taskbar disappears after editing the registry?

Don’t panic! Try restarting Windows Explorer (Ctrl + Shift + Esc > Task Manager > Restart Explorer), which usually fixes it. If that doesn’t work, restore your registry backup, so everything goes back to normal.