A common question from users customizing their Windows 11 experience is whether it’s possible to have a split taskbar layout: the Start button aligned to the left, while the application icons remain in the center.
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While Windows 11 does not offer a built-in setting to achieve this specific arrangement, it is possible to get this exact look using a popular and lightweight third-party application. This guide will show you how.
The Native Windows 11 Setting (Partial Solution)
First, it’s important to know what Windows 11 can do by default. You can move the entire group of icons (including the Start button) to the left, which gives a more traditional, Windows 10-like feel.
- Right-click on an empty space on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
- Expand the Taskbar behaviors section.
- Next to Taskbar alignment, change the setting from “Center” to “Left.”
This will move everything to the left, not just the Start button. To achieve the split layout, you will need the solution below.
Using StartAllBack (The Complete Solution)
The most popular and effective tool for this customization is StartAllBack. It’s a lightweight program designed to restore classic functionality and add new customization options to the Windows 11 interface.
Note: StartAllBack is a paid application, but it offers a fully functional free trial period for you to test its features.
- Download and Install StartAllBack:
- Go to the official website: startallback.com
- Download the latest version and run the installer.
- Configure the Taskbar Alignment:
- After installation, right-click on your Start button or taskbar and a “Properties” option will now be available. Click it to open the StartAllBack configuration panel.
- In the left-hand menu, select the “Taskbar” section.
- Look for the option “Task icons alignment.”
- Change this setting to “Center with Start button at the left.”
The change will apply instantly. Your Start button will now be on the far left of your taskbar, while your pinned and running application icons will remain perfectly centered, giving you the exact layout you wanted.
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