Learn how to reduce the size of desktop icons in Windows 10 or Windows 11 with this step-by-step guide. Discover different methods to customize the size of your icons and improve your desktop experience.

Size of Desktop Icons on Windows 10 or Windows 11

How to Reduce the Size of Desktop Icons on Windows 10 or Windows 11

By default, Windows sets its desktop icons to medium size, but it's easy to make them smaller with just a few clicks. In fact, there's even a hidden option that allows you to make them extra small. Whether you're using Windows 10 or Windows 11, here's how you can do it.

Make Desktop Icons Smaller in Two Clicks

One way to reduce the size of your desktop icons is by utilizing the context menu. Simply right-click on your desktop, hover over the "View" option, and then click on "Small Icons" to adjust the size of your icons to a smaller scale.

This method is compatible with various versions of Windows, including Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows 11. In Windows 11, you can alternatively use the key combination of Ctrl+Shift+4 to achieve the same result.


One can utilize the context menu to conceal all icons present on the desktop completely.

Make Icons Even Smaller on the Desktop

There are additional desktop icon sizes in Windows that are not readily visible in the context menu. By utilizing a simple trick, you can further reduce the size of your desktop icons beyond the "Small Icon" option. All you need to do is place your mouse cursor over the desktop, press and hold the Ctrl key, and then scroll down using your mouse wheel. The more you scroll down, the smaller your desktop icons will become, allowing you to customize their size according to your preferences.


To adjust the size of your desktop icons precisely, you can hold down the Ctrl key and use the scroll wheel on your mouse to scroll up and down. This will allow you to make small, incremental changes to the size of your icons until you achieve the desired size.

Storing your files on the desktop provides quick accessibility to a larger number of files. However, it is advisable to organize the desktop and select the preferred built-in Windows system icons to be displayed for a more structured appearance.

How to Transfer Messages from Android to iPhone with Ease

Incorporate ChatGPT into your Apple Watch