-
To enable Compact View, open
File Explorer
, open the
View
menu, and select the
Compact view
option. -
Alternatively, open
File Explorer
, open the
See more
menu, and choose
Options
. In the View tab, check the
Decrease space between items (compact view)
option.
A new default layout for viewing content in File Explorer on Windows 11 makes it easier to use, especially on touch-enabled devices, by introducing more padding between visual elements.
However, Windows 11 now offers the option to return to the original condensed view if you want a more conventional experience.
This tutorial will teach you how to return to Windows 11’s original File Explorer interface.
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Enable Compact view on File Explorer
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Enable Compact view from Folder Options
Enable Compact view on File Explorer
Follow these procedures to access File Explorer’s classic Compact view:
On Windows 11, open File Explorer.
From the command bar, select the Viewmenu.
To enable File Explorer’s compact view on Windows 11, check the Compact view option.
After you finish the steps, File Explorer will return to its traditional layout. Similarly, if you would want to use the comfortable view with more padding, clear the Compact view option and follow the same steps.
Enable Compact view from Folder Options
As an alternative, you can activate the function from the File Explorer Folder Options menu:
On Windows 11, open File Explorer.
From the command bar, select the “See more” menu, then select “Options.”
Select the Viewtab.
Verify the option to reduce the distance between items (compact view).
Press the “Apply” button.
Press the “OK” button.
File Explorer will transition to the legacy layout with less padding around the objects on Windows 11 once you have finished the instructions.