There is no point in arguing that the new context menu in Windows 11 is intuitive and certainly goes well with the overall visual overhaul. The new ‘Copy as Path’ option is worth commending as well. That being said, there is still a large number of users who would prefer the old Windows 10 context menu as compared to that of Windows 11’s.
And it is simply because of all the multiple options that the previous context menu used to offer. While it is quite generous for Microsoft to keep the ‘Show more options,’ but it hardly comes close to the old legacy full-sized content menu from Windows 10. That is why in this article we are going to discuss how you can revert back to the old context menu in Windows 11.
You may also like: What is Mouse Acceleration? How to Disable it in Windows 11?
Differences Between the Old and New Context Menu
The new context menu added in Windows 11 goes well with the completely revamped fluent design. With a minimalistic approach, rounded corners, and a transparent user interface, the design is well suited for touch displays. But at the same time, Microsoft has also removed some of the core functionalities that were readily available on the right-click menu.
Some of the most prominent ones include the advanced sharing option as well as the ability to create shortcuts right away. And the choice of options diminishes especially while using third-party applications. Taking 7-Zip for an example, you need to revert back to ‘Show more options’ before you can actually choose any customized option. And that’s just too many clicks for that matter.
You won’t be able to find even the most basic options such as cut, copy and paste at the right position. Given you are better off using keyboard shortcuts. From an ergonomic standpoint, users need to relearn and bake the new UI into their muscle memory. And that is exactly where this guide comes to save the day getting back the old content menu from Windows 10.
How to Get the Old Context Menu on Windows 11
In this section, we are going to discuss two of the most prominent ways in which you can revert back to the old context menu on Windows 11. While one requires the use of a third-party application, the second method takes a manual approach.
1. Using Third-Party Software
If you don’t want to get your hands on all the technicalities, using a third-party application known as Winaero Tweaker is by far the safest option. Application has added some of the most popular tweaks for Windows 11 in their recent iteration. So, in order to get back to the old context menu, follow the steps mentioned below:
Step 1: At first download Winaero Tweaker. Simply extract the ZIP file and install your EXE file just like any other software.
Step 2: Once you open the program, head over to the left panel on the ‘Windows 11’ section. You need to select the option stating ‘Classic Full Context Menus’ and simply tick the checkbox at the right panel.
Step 3: Once you tick the checkbox, a prompt will appear right at the bottom. Now simply click on ‘Restart Explorer.’
Step 4: In order to see the changes, all you need to do is right-click anywhere on the desktop and Viola! You have got yourself the old context menu from Windows 10. This is by far the simplest way to achieve it.
Step 5: In case you want to revert back to the new context menu of Windows 11, simply click on ‘Reset this page to defaults’ and restart the explorer. That’s how you can toggle between the old and new right-click menu options.
Winaero Tweaker is by far one of the easiest ways, in which you can actually achieve the old context menu on Windows 11. That being said, if you are being curious, there are a plethora of options you can tweak on your Windows 11 machine using the application. Overall, a fun little application to fidget with.
2. Revert Back to Old Context Menu Using Registry Method
For someone who wants to make changes and tweaks manually, the registry method is just the right option for you. Just like every other hack, users can also revert to the old context menu in Windows 11. Following the steps down below on how to change the values within the registry.
Note: It is imperative to understand that Registry Editor in Windows is a very powerful tool. Misusing or setting up the wrong value can completely render your system useless. So, following through with the instructions by heart, you shouldn’t have any problem whatsoever. Still, our recommendation would be to back up your Registry prior to making any changes.
Step 1: At first, press the ‘Windows + R’ key to open the run dialog box. Now, type in regedit and hit enter.
Step 2: Simply copy and paste the address mentioned below at the desired path within the Registry Editor. This will take you right at the CLDIS Entry.
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID
Step 3: Once you are at the CLSID folder, simply right-click on any empty space and choose New > Key.
Step 4: Once the new key is formed, copy the following string and rename it.
{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}
Step 5: Hover to the new entry at the left panel, right-click on it and choose New > Key.
Step 6: Rename the new key as InprocServer32 and hit enter.
Step 7: All you need to do is move to the ‘InprocServer32’ folder. At the right panel, double-click on ‘Default.’ Choose ‘OK’ without making any further changes to the values whatsoever.
Step 8: Now the only thing left for you is to close the Registry Editor and restart your Windows Explorer right from the task manager. You can also restart your PC altogether, and you have got yourself the same old context menu from Windows 10.
Step 9: With Registry Editor, you can also revert to the new context menu from Windows 11. In order to do so, just delete the new Registry key you have added and you are good to go.
Also Read: How to Check Battery Health in Windows 11 Laptop
The Bottom Line
So that was our curated guide on how you can revert back to the old context menu on Windows 11. If you are someone who is just starting out, our recommendation would be to go with Winaero Tweaker. It is by far one of the safest ways to make changes. On the contrary, for advanced users making tweaks on the Widows registry file, can offer you more flexibility. So, let us know in the comment section below, which Windows 11 guide you want us to make next?
