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Struggling with Small Menus and Icons in Windows? Here’s How to Make Everything Easier to Read
If text, icons, and menus appear uncomfortably small on your Windows 10 or 11 device, you’re not alone. This issue is common with new computers, clean Windows installations, or when connecting an external monitor. High-resolution screens can make everything look crisp, but they can also shrink user interface elements, making them hard to read.
Key Reasons for Small Text and Icons
- Ultra HD/4K displays use high resolutions, causing UI elements to appear smaller.
- Windows may automatically apply incorrect DPI (dots per inch) scaling.
- Connecting external monitors can trigger incompatible screen resolutions.
How to Fix Small Text and Icons in Windows
Step 1: Open Display Settings
Right-click the desktop and select “Display Settings.” Or press WIN+I and go to System > Display.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Display
If you have multiple monitors, select the one you want to adjust.
Step 3: Increase DPI Scaling
- In the “Scale and Layout” section, click the dropdown next to “Scale.”
- Select a higher percentage (e.g., 150%, 200%, or 250%) to enlarge text and icons.
- Try different levels until you find what’s comfortable.
Step 4: Adjust Screen Resolution
Under “Display Resolution,” pick a lower resolution to make UI elements larger. Windows will preview the change; confirm or revert as needed.
If the screen goes blank, Windows will automatically revert after 5 minutes, or you can press Enter to restore the previous setting.
Tips
- Test various combinations of scaling and resolution for the best results.
- These adjustments improve readability for menus, app windows, and icons across your device.
Customizing display scaling and resolution ensures your Windows experience is comfortable and accessible, especially on high-resolution screens or when using external monitors. This simple adjustment can make a significant positive difference in daily usability.