Windows 10/11: How to Make the Taskbar Transparent

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Windows offers extensive customization for a more appealing interface. You can change colour and icons, create keyboard shortcuts, and even make your taskbar transparent in Windows 10 and 11. However, this can be achieved using various methods and techniques but can be performed by any level of expertise.

In this guide, we will discuss different ways of creating your taskbar transparent in Windows 10 and 11.

Table of Contents

Create Transparency in Windows 10/11 Taskbar – 4 Methods

In this article, we will see how to make the taskbar transparent using in-built settings, the Windows registry editor, Windows accessibility settings and Third-Party tools which will make your work easier.

1. Using Windows in-built Settings

Here are the simple steps on how to make the taskbar transparent in Windows 10 and 11.


For Windows 11

Step 1: Access to Windows Settings

Press Win + I to open Settings App or Go to the Start Menu and type “Settings” and click to open it. Alternatively you can press Win + X and click on “Settings”

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Windows 11 Settings

Step 2: Check for Personalization under Settings

Once you enter Settings, Navigate to Personalization, and click Colors.

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Windows 11 Settings

Step 3: Toggle on the “Transparency Effect”

Within colour options, you’ll find “Transsparency Effects”. Navigate to that option and click on the Toggle button “Transparency effects” to turn it on.

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Transparency effect

Step 4: Changes Saved as Per Preference

Your taskbar should now be semi-transparent and have a blurry background. You can turn it back off by navigating through the same steps.

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Windows 11 Transparency Mode

For Windows 10

Step 1: Access to Windows 10 Personalization Settings

Press Win + I to open Settings App or Go to the Start Menu and type “Settings” and click to open it. Alternatively you can press Win + X and click on “Settings”

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Windows 10 Settings

Step 2: Navigate to “Colors” under Personalization

Click on Settings and Navigate to Personalization, and click Colors.

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Windows 10 Personalization

Step 3: Toggle on the “Transparency Effect”

Navigate to “Transparency Effect” and click on the Toggle button to turn it on.

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Toggle on the Transparency Effect

Step 4: Changes Saved as Per Preference

You’ll now notice that your Windows 10 computer has a transparent Taskbar option.

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Windows 10 Taskbar Transparency Mode

2. Using the Windows Registry Editor

Here are the simple steps to make the taskbar transparent using the Windows Registry Editor and this can be applicable in both Windows 10 and 11.

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Win+R, type “regedit“, and click OK Or Press Win + S and search for “Registry Editor” then click on “Open

How to Make the Taskbar Transparent in Windows 11?

Step 2: Navigate to Windows > Current Version > Explorer > Avanced

Once you open Registry Editor, navigate through the following path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
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Windows Registry Editor

Step 3: Set a new DWORD (data type) value

Make a right-click on right panel and select “New” > DWORD (32-bit) Value.

How-to-Make-the-Taskbar-Transparent-Using-the-Windows-Registry-Editor

Step 4: Rename the File and set the Value to 1

Rename “UseOLEDTaskbarTransparency ” and then double-click UseOLEDTaskbarTransparency and set its value to 1.

How-to-Make-the-Taskbar-Transparent-Using-the-Windows-Registry-Editor-1

Step 5: Restart For Changes to Take Effect

Restart your computer to see the transparency.

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Taskbar has been changed to “Transparency Mode” using Registry Editor

3. Using the Third-Party Tool

If you face any difficulty while performing the above methods, then you may look for any trusted third-party software to make changes in your Windows 10/11 taskbar. Here’s two of the most recommended tools that you can use in Windows 10 and 11:

  • TranslucentTB
  • TaskbarX

To provide you an overview, we’ve added simple steps to download and use athird-party tool, TranslucentTB for Windows 10 and 11:

Step 1: Access to Microsoft Store

Use keyboard shortcut and press Win + S on the search bar and type “Microsoft Store and open it

How to Make the Taskbar Transparent in Windows 11?

Step 2: Search for Taskbar Customizer an hit Enter

On the Microsoft search bar type “Taskbar Customizer” or “TranslucentTB” and it Enter button. Once you find the application, click on “Get” to start the downloading process.

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Click on “Get” to start downloading

Step 3: Open the TranslucentTB application

Click on the system tray Icon then select TranslucentTB.

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TranslucentTB application

Step 5: Select and Apply Changes to the Taskbar

Click on “Desktop” then click on “Clear” To Make the Taskbar transparent & to turn off TranslucentTB click on “Normal

How-to-Make-the-Taskbar-Transparent-Using-TranslucentTB-Application

4. Using the GPU Settings (NVIDIA)

Certain GPU’s (like AMD or NVIDIA) offers customization to their users which also includes taskbar customization. Here’s what you can do:

  • Open NVIDIA, go to control panel and navigate to Colour Settings
  • Alternatively, search for “Adjust Desktop Color Settings”
  • Try making changes with different colors and opacity
  • Save as per your choice, and exit.

Here are the simple steps to make the Taskbar Transparent Using the Accessibility Setting in Windows:

Conclusion

Customizing your taskbar is a simple yet effective way to personalize your Windows 10 and 11 experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily make the taskbar transparent in Windows 10 and 11 and enjoy a more visually appealing desktop.

Whether you prefer a subtle transparency or a fully see-through taskbar, Windows 11/10 taskbar transparency options give you the flexibility to create the look that best suits your style.


How to Make the Taskbar Transparent in Windows 11/10 – FAQs

How do I make my taskbar transparent?

Here is the way to make your taskbar transparent on Windows 11:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) > Personalization > Colors.
  2. Turn on “Transparency effects”.

How to make the taskbar transparent with TranslucentTB in Windows 11?

Use TranslucentTB for a more transparent taskbar in Windows 11:

  1. Download and install from Microsoft Store.
  2. Run TranslucentTB (Start menu or notification area).
  3. Adjust transparency (Clear, Blur, or custom opacity).
  4. (Optional) Set to start with Windows for automatic transparency.

Why is my taskbar no longer transparent in Windows 11?

Your taskbar transparency might be gone in Windows 11 due to:

  • Disabled settings: Check if “Transparency effects” are on in Settings > Personalization > Colors.
  • Windows update: Updates can reset settings.
  • Conflicting apps: Some software might mess with transparency.

Is it possible to adjust the degree of translucency with these methods?

Yes, techniques such as TranslucentTB and registry edits provide greater precise control over the degree of transparency.

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