Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11: Ultimate Guide to Stunning Transformation

Are you tired of the same old Elementary OS interface but love the sleek, modern look of Windows 11? Wondering if it’s possible to make Elementary OS look like Windows 11 without switching operating systems? Well, you’re in the right place! This ultimate guide will show you exactly how to transform your Elementary OS into a stunning replica of Windows 11, combining the best of both worlds with eye-catching design and seamless functionality. Imagine having the familiar Windows 11 taskbar, start menu, and modern icons right on your Linux desktop – sounds exciting, right?

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll explore the best customization tools, themes, and tweaks that can turn your Elementary OS desktop into a Windows 11-inspired powerhouse. Whether you’re a Linux newbie or a seasoned user, these tips will help you achieve that clean, futuristic Windows 11 look with ease. From adjusting the dock appearance to installing Windows 11-style widgets and even tweaking your system fonts and colors, you’ll get a complete walkthrough that covers everything. Why settle for the default Elementary experience when you can have a stunning Windows 11 transformation that boosts productivity and wows your friends?

Ready to dive into the world of Linux desktop customization and elevate your OS’s visual appeal? Stay tuned as we reveal the ultimate secrets to making your Elementary OS look like Windows 11, unlocking a fresh new vibe without compromising on performance. Don’t miss out on the chance to impress with a modern, sleek desktop environment that combines the best features of both operating systems. Let’s get started on this exciting journey to a Windows 11 lookalike Elementary OS setup today!

Top 7 Easy Steps to Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11 Without Losing Performance

If you ever wanted to have the sleek look of Windows 11 but prefer to stick with Elementary OS, you are not alone. Many users seek to blend the modern, clean aesthetics of Windows 11 with the lightweight and user-friendly environment of Elementary OS — but often worry about losing performance or messing up their system. Luckily, making Elementary OS look like Windows 11 is possible, and it can be done in just a few easy steps without slowing down your computer. This guide will show you the top 7 easy steps to make Elementary OS look like Windows 11, so you can enjoy a stunning transformation without the hassle.

Why Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11?

Before jumping in, it’s worth knowing why this transformation is popular. Windows 11 brought a fresh, centered taskbar, rounded corners, and a minimalist vibe that many users find appealing. Elementary OS, known for its simplicity and Mac-like interface, can feel limiting or outdated for some. By customizing Elementary OS to look like Windows 11, you get:

• A modern and fresh desktop vibe
• Centered app icons on the dock/taskbar
• Rounded corners and subtle shadows for windows
• A start menu style similar to Windows 11’s design
• A consistent, sleek look without heavy resource use

The good news is, Elementary OS is very customizable, thanks to open-source themes and extensions, so you don’t need to switch OS or compromise speed.

Step 1: Install the Latest Elementary OS Version

To start, make sure you are running the latest version of Elementary OS (preferably 6 or newer). Newer versions provide better support for customization and performance improvements. Updating your system is easy — just open the terminal and type:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This will bring all your packages up to date and ensure your system is stable for further changes.

Step 2: Add a Windows 11 Style Dock

Windows 11 features a centered taskbar dock, which is different from the default left-aligned dock in Elementary OS. You can achieve this look by using a dock application like Dash to Dock or Plank, and configure it to center icons.

How to do it:

• Install Dash to Dock extension via GNOME Extensions website.
• Open GNOME Tweaks and enable Dash to Dock.
• In Dash to Dock settings, set dock position to bottom and center the dock.
• Customize icon size to match Windows 11’s default.

Alternatively, Plank dock can be installed and used for more lightweight performance. Plank allows you to pin your favorite applications and center them easily.

Step 3: Apply Windows 11-Themed Icons and GTK Themes

A big part of Windows 11’s look is the fresh icon set and the rounded window corners. You can download Windows 11-like icon packs and GTK themes from repositories like GitHub or Gnome-look.org.

Popular choices include:

• Fluent-UI icon pack
• Windows 11 GTK theme (often called “Win11-GTK”)
• Rounded window corners themes

To install these themes:

• Download the theme and icon packages.
• Extract them to ~/.themes and ~/.icons folders.
• Use GNOME Tweaks to apply the new icon and GTK themes.

This step changes the overall system appearance, giving you the closest visual match to Windows 11.

Step 4: Customize the Start Menu with a Windows 11 Style App Launcher

Elementary OS uses a simple application menu, but Windows 11’s start menu is more centered and card-like. You can install an app launcher that mimics this style.

Try installing ‘Cairo Dock’ or ‘Plank’ with a custom menu plugin, or use ‘Gnome Pie’ for a circular menu effect. Another option is ‘Launchy’ or ‘Albert’ for quick app launching that feels modern and intuitive.

Configure the launcher to open from the center or bottom-center of your screen, just like Windows 11.

Step 5: Add Rounded Corners and Window Shadows

Windows 11 uses rounded corners on all windows, and subtle shadows to create depth. Elementary OS may not have this by default but you can enable rounded corners using a compositor like ‘Picom’ (formerly known as Compton).

Steps to enable:

• Install Picom with sudo apt install picom
• Create a configuration file (~/.config/picom.conf) and enable rounded corners and shadows.
• Launch Picom on startup.

This will soften window edges and add shadows, enhancing the Windows 11 feel.

Step 6: Center the Clock and System Tray

Windows 11 centers the clock and system tray icons on the taskbar, Elementary OS places them on the right side. Some GNOME extensions allow you to reposition these elements.

For example:

• Use the ‘Taskbar’ extension or ‘Panel OSD’ to move the clock to the center.
• Adjust settings via GNOME Tweaks or dconf-editor

How to Customize Elementary OS Desktop to Perfectly Mimic Windows 11 Design and Features

If you ever wanted to switch from Windows 11 to a Linux-based system but still keep that familiar look and feel, Elementary OS is a great choice. However, out of the box, it looks quite different from Windows 11, which might be a turn-off for some users who love the sleek, modern design Microsoft introduced. But hey, guess what? You can totally customize Elementary OS desktop to perfectly mimic Windows 11 design and features. This is not just about slapping on a wallpaper or changing an icon; it’s about making your Linux environment feel like home, especially if you’re coming from Windows. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can make Elementary OS look like Windows 11 with an ultimate guide that covers everything you need for a stunning transformation.

Why Mimic Windows 11 on Elementary OS?

Before we get to the how, a little bit of the why. Windows 11 brought a fresh, centered taskbar, rounded corners, and a minimalist vibe that many find appealing. But some users prefer the open-source benefits of Linux, like privacy, customization, and lighter resource usage. Elementary OS is known for its clean and simple interface, but it has its own unique style which is quite different from Windows 11. Customizing Elementary OS to look like Windows 11 allows users to enjoy the best of both worlds: the aesthetics and familiarity of Windows with the power and flexibility of Linux. Plus, it makes the transition easier for people switching OS.

Basic Steps to Get Started: Setting the Foundation

First thing first, you need to have Elementary OS installed and updated. It’s based on Ubuntu, so most Ubuntu tweaks and tools work here too. After that, the customization process involves several layers:

• Changing the desktop theme and icons
• Adjusting the dock and taskbar to mimic Windows 11 style
• Installing Windows-like widgets and features
• Setting up a start menu similar to Windows
• Customizing window behavior and animations

Desktop Theme and Icons: The Visual Core

Windows 11 is known for its soft shadows, rounded corners, and pastel color palette. Elementary OS uses a Pantheon desktop environment, which has a different design philosophy. To make it look like Windows 11, you’ll need to install a Windows 11-inspired GTK theme and icon pack.

Popular GTK themes to consider:

• Windows 11 GTK Theme: A community-created theme that imitates Windows 11’s translucency and rounded corners.
• Fluent-gtk: Based on Microsoft’s Fluent Design, gives a modern and polished look.
• Win11 Icon Pack: Includes icons that look closely like Windows 11 system icons.

You can install these by adding a PPA or downloading from GitHub and applying them using Elementary OS’s appearance settings or a tool like GNOME Tweaks.

Dock and Taskbar: Centering the Essentials

Windows 11’s centered taskbar is one of its most distinct features. Elementary OS has a dock at the bottom, but it’s aligned left by default. You can change this by:

• Using Dash to Dock or Plank, which allows more customization.
• Centering the dock icons manually to mimic Windows 11 positioning.
• Adjusting size and transparency to match Windows 11’s sleek style.

Taskbar features like system tray icons, volume control, and network indicators can be customized or installed through extensions.

Start Menu: The Heart of Navigation

Windows 11’s Start Menu is simplified but powerful. Elementary OS uses the “Applications” menu, which differs quite a lot. To recreate the Windows 11 start menu experience:

• Install a Windows-like menu app such as Cairo-Dock or Latte Dock.
• Use Arc Menu or Openbox Menu to get a grid-based launcher.
• Customize the menu to include pinned apps, search bar, and quick access to settings.

This might not be a perfect replica but gets close enough for daily use.

Adding Widgets and Features: More Than Just Looks

Windows 11 includes widgets like weather, news, and calendar. Elementary OS doesn’t have these by default, but you can add:

• Conky: A system monitor tool that can display weather, CPU usage, date/time, similar to Windows widgets.
• GNOME Extensions: If you switch to GNOME on Elementary OS, some extensions can bring widget-like features.
• Installing apps like Rainmeter alternatives (though Rainmeter itself is Windows-only).

Window Behavior and Animations: The Subtle Touches

Windows 11’s animation effects and window snapping make multitasking easier and more pleasant. Elementary OS offers some animations but to closely mimic Windows:

• Use tools like Compiz or KWin for advanced window effects.
• Enable window snapping to screen edges and corners.
• Customize window borders and shadows for that rounded, floating feel.

Comparison

Best Themes and Icon Packs to Transform Elementary OS Into a Stunning Windows 11 Clone

If you ever wondered how to make your Elementary OS look like Windows 11, well, you’re not alone. Lots of people who loves the sleekness of Elementary OS but at the same time are drawn to Windows 11’s modern and stylish interface. Transforming Elementary OS into a stunning Windows 11 clone isn’t as hard as you might think, and it can be done with the help of some best themes and icon packs. This guide will walk you through the essential tweaks, giving your Linux system a fresh new look that feels familiar and futuristic at once.

Why Transform Elementary OS Into Windows 11?

Elementary OS is known for its simplicity and clean design, but it doesn’t have the same visual flair as Windows 11. Windows 11 introduced a centered taskbar, rounded corners, vibrant icons, and a more dynamic feel overall. Many users coming from Windows want to keep their productivity but enjoy that new look. Also, for people switching to Linux, making Elementary OS look like Windows 11 can reduce the learning curve and make the transition smoother.

Historically, Linux desktop environments have been customizable, but Elementary OS was designed to be minimalistic and consistent. However, with some themes and icon packs, you can bend it to your will. That’s why this transformation has become popular in communities.

Best Themes To Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11

Themes change the overall look of the desktop environment — colors, window borders, menus, and more. To mimic Windows 11, you want themes that replicate the signature rounded corners, glass-like transparency, and centered UI elements.

Here are some top themes you should consider:

• Windows 11 Light and Dark Themes: Multiple community-created themes emulate Windows 11’s light and dark modes. These themes often offer the signature blue accent color, subtle shadows, and rounded corners.
• Fluent Theme: Inspired by Microsoft’s Fluent Design System, this theme combines transparency effects with bright highlights similar to Windows 11.
• WhiteSur: Originally for macOS, but some variants are tweaked for Windows 11 vibes, especially with its sleek and modern window decorations.
• McMojave for GTK: Although inspired by macOS, its polish and rounded window corners can complement the Windows 11 look when combined with the right icon pack.

To install these themes, you usually download them from sites like GitHub or GNOME-look.org and place them in the ~/.themes folder. Then use Elementary OS’s appearance settings or a tweak tool to activate them.

Icon Packs That Bring Windows 11 Vibes

Icon packs are just as important as themes because they change the visual language of your apps and system utilities. Windows 11 icons are colorful, with a soft gradient and a 3D-like effect, which contrasts with Elementary OS’s flat and minimalist icon set.

Here are some best icon packs to try:

• Fluent Icons: A popular pack inspired directly by Windows 11’s icons, it covers most system and common application icons.
• Windows 11 Icon Pack by Surenix: Offers a comprehensive set of icons for folders, apps, and system UI elements.
• Win11-Icons-GTK: Designed for GTK-based environments like Elementary OS, this pack brings the glossy, vibrant icons from Windows 11.
• Papirus: While not Windows 11 specific, Papirus has a modern and colorful style that can blend well with Windows 11 themes.

Installing icon packs usually involves extracting them into the ~/.icons directory and selecting them through the system’s icon settings.

How To Center Your Taskbar Like Windows 11

One of the most defining features of Windows 11 is the centered taskbar with the Start button and pinned apps aligned in the middle of the screen. Elementary OS’s default dock is left-aligned, so you need some configuration to fix that.

• Use Plank Dock Settings: Elementary OS uses Plank as a dock. You can move the dock to the bottom (if not already) and adjust icon sizes.
• For true center alignment, you might need to tweak the dock’s source code or use third-party dock alternatives like Dash to Dock with GNOME, but that requires installing GNOME over Elementary OS.
• Some users create a workaround by adding padding or empty placeholders on the dock to visually center icons.

Practical Examples for a Stunning Windows 11 Clone

If you want to get started quickly, here is a simple step-by-step outline:

1. Install Windows 11 GTK Theme: Download and install from a trusted repository.
2. Apply Fluent Icon Pack: Extract icons to ~/.icons and set it as your icon theme.
3. Change Wallpaper: Use official Windows 11 wallpapers available online for authenticity.
4. Adjust Dock Position: Place Plank dock to bottom center and increase icon size

Unlock Windows 11 Style Taskbar and Start Menu on Elementary OS: A Complete Tutorial

Unlock Windows 11 Style Taskbar and Start Menu on Elementary OS: A Complete Tutorial

If you are someone who loves the clean and modern look of Windows 11 but prefers using Elementary OS for your daily computing needs, you might be wondering if it’s possible to blend the best of both worlds. Well, guess what? You can unlock Windows 11 style taskbar and start menu on Elementary OS with some tweaks and tools. This article dives into how to make Elementary OS look like Windows 11 without losing the core benefits of your favorite Linux distro. It is not just about cosmetic changes; it’s about creating a seamless experience that feels familiar yet powerful.

Why Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11?

Elementary OS is well known for its elegant and minimalistic design, inspired by macOS. However, for many users migrating from Windows, the difference in interface can be jarring. Windows 11 introduced a fresh centered taskbar and a redesigned start menu that many users find intuitive and visually appealing. By customizing Elementary OS to mimic Windows 11:

• You get a familiar environment that reduces the learning curve.
• Boost productivity by having the start menu and taskbar behave like Windows.
• Enjoy a blend of open-source flexibility with modern UI aesthetics.
• Impress your friends or colleagues with a stunning transformation of your Linux desktop.

Historical Context: Windows UI Evolution Vs. Linux Desktop Environments

Windows started with simple taskbars and start menus in Windows 95, evolving over decades to the current Windows 11’s centered taskbar and simplified start menu. Meanwhile, Linux desktops like GNOME, KDE, and Elementary OS’s Pantheon focused on different design philosophies—some more traditional, others more innovative or minimalistic. The gap between Windows and Linux desktop UX was historically large but narrowing thanks to community efforts and customization tools.

How to Unlock Windows 11 Style Taskbar on Elementary OS

Elementary OS uses the Pantheon desktop environment which is sleek but does not natively offer a Windows 11 style taskbar. However, you can achieve this look by:

1. Installing Plank Dock with Centered Icons
   Plank is a lightweight dock that can be customized to center icons similar to Windows 11 taskbar.

   • Open Terminal and install Plank:
     sudo apt install plank
   • After installing, configure Plank to center the dock at the bottom of the screen.
   • Add launchers for your frequently used apps to Plank.

2. Using Custom Themes and Icons
   Download Windows 11 inspired themes and icon packs from websites like Gnome-look.org. Use tools like gnome-tweaks or Elementary Tweaks to apply them.

   • These themes replicate the color schemes, button shapes, and shadows of Windows 11.
   • Icon packs can include Windows-style folder icons, system icons, and wallpapers.

3. Adding a Windows 11 Style Start Menu
   Elementary OS does not have a start menu like Windows, but you can install third-party launchers like Cairo-Dock or Arc Menu which mimic this functionality.

   • For example, Cairo-Dock can be configured to show a start menu with pinned apps, search functionality, and recently used files.
   • Alternatively, installing Whisker Menu on a different DE (like XFCE) offers a similar experience if you use multi-desktop environments.

Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11: Ultimate Guide to Stunning Transformation

If you go beyond just the taskbar and start menu, you can truly transform your Elementary OS desktop with these additional steps:

• Wallpaper and Lock Screen: Download the official Windows 11 wallpapers and set them as your background and lock screen images. This small detail makes a big visual difference.
• Fonts: Install Microsoft’s Segoe UI font, which is the default in Windows 11, to keep text rendering consistent.
• Window Controls Positioning: Windows places close, minimize, maximize buttons on the right side. You can tweak Elementary OS window buttons to appear on the right by adjusting system settings or via dconf-editor.
• Sounds and Notifications: Replace system sounds with Windows 11 sound packs to complete the immersive experience. Also, use notification settings that mimic Windows 11’s style and behavior.
• Widgets and Gadgets: Windows 11 features widgets integrated into the taskbar. While Elementary OS doesn’t have this, you can add widgets like weather, calendar, or system monitor via third-party apps or panel plugins.

Comparison Table: Elementary OS Default vs. Windows 11 Style Customized

Why You Should Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11: Benefits and Expert Tips for Seamless Integration

Why You Should Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11: Benefits and Expert Tips for Seamless Integration

If you ever used Elementary OS but wished it looked more like Windows 11, you’re not alone. There is a growing community of users who want the sleek, modern aesthetic of Windows 11 combined with the stability and open-source nature of Elementary OS. Making Elementary OS look like Windows 11 is not only possible, but it also brings several benefits that many people overlook. Plus, it can make your transition from Windows to Linux easier without feeling lost or overwhelmed. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why you should consider this transformation, along with expert tips on how to achieve a seamless integration.

Why Choose Elementary OS?

Elementary OS is known for it’s clean and minimalistic design, inspired by macOS in many ways. It’s lightweight and runs smoothly even on older hardware, making it a great choice for users who want a simple but powerful Linux distro. However, if you are used to Windows 11, you might find Elementary OS’s interface a bit unfamiliar or too different. This is where making Elementary OS look like Windows 11 comes handy. It bridges the gap between two operating systems and gives you the best of both worlds.

Benefits of Making Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11

1. Familiarity for Windows Users
   Switching from Windows to Linux can be daunting for many people. By making Elementary OS look like Windows 11, you reduce the learning curve significantly. The start menu, taskbar, icons, and window controls will appear where you expect them, so you won’t feel lost.

2. Enhanced Productivity
   Windows 11 introduced several UI improvements designed to boost productivity, like centered taskbar, snap layouts, and rounded corners. Mimicking these features in Elementary OS helps you stay organized and work faster.

3. Aesthetic Appeal
   Windows 11 has attracted a lot of attention for it’s modern and fresh look. Applying these aesthetics to Elementary OS makes your desktop visually appealing and enjoyable to use every day.

4. Customization Flexibility
   Linux is all about customization. Unlike Windows, you can tailor almost every aspect of Elementary OS’s UI. Making it look like Windows 11 is just one example of how much you control your environment.

5. Performance Efficiency
   Elementary OS is lightweight compared to Windows 11, which means it can run smoother on less powerful machines. When you make it look like Windows 11, you get the visual benefits without compromising performance.

How to Make Elementary OS Look Like Windows 11: Ultimate Guide

Here is a step-by-step outline to transform your Elementary OS interface into a Windows 11 inspired desktop.

Step 1: Install a Windows 11 Style Dock and Taskbar
Elementary OS uses Plank as its default dock, but it can be customized to look like Windows 11’s centered taskbar. Alternatively, you can install Dash to Panel or Dash to Dock extensions that allow taskbar customization.

Step 2: Use Windows 11 Icon Pack
Download a Windows 11 icon pack from websites like GitHub or Gnome-look.org. Replace the default Elementary OS icons by placing the new icons in the ~/.icons folder and applying them via the system settings.

Step 3: Apply a Windows 11 Theme
There are several GTK themes that mimic Windows 11’s rounded corners and transparency effects. Themes like “Windows 11 Light” or “Fluent for GTK” can be installed easily and applied through the Elementary OS Appearance settings or with tools like Tweaks.

Step 4: Customize the Start Menu
Elementary OS’s application launcher can be replaced with something similar to Windows 11’s Start Menu using third-party launchers like “Ulauncher” or “Cairo-Dock”. These offer similar search and pinned applications functionality.

Step 5: Add Widgets and Snap Layouts
While Linux doesn’t have exact Windows 11 widgets, you can use Conky or KDE Plasma widgets to add similar desktop info. For snapping windows, tools like “gTile” or “ShellTile” can mimic the snap layouts feature.

Comparison Table: Elementary OS Default vs. Windows 11 Inspired Look

Conclusion

In summary, transforming your elementary OS to resemble Windows 11 is a rewarding way to enjoy the best of both worlds—combining the sleek, user-friendly design of Windows 11 with the stability and customization of elementary OS. By applying themes, customizing the dock and panel, and installing icon packs that mimic Windows 11’s aesthetic, you can achieve a seamless, modern look that enhances your productivity and user experience. Additionally, tools like Plank and tweaking system settings allow for further personalization, ensuring your desktop feels familiar yet uniquely tailored. Whether you’re a longtime Windows user transitioning to Linux or simply someone who appreciates Windows 11’s design, these steps offer a straightforward path to a visually appealing and functional workspace. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different tweaks and share your results with the community—embrace the customization spirit and make your elementary OS truly your own.