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Expanding on How can I make Windows 8 use the classic theme? and Windows 10 TenForums: Windows Classic Look Theme in Windows 10 -- how does one use Windows 10 with the old classic theme?

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There's a Windows 10 theme over at DeviantArt but it does not work with the final RTM:

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Also, your vote over at Windows 10 UserVoice: Windows Classic Look Theme in Windows 10 would be much appreciated.

3 Answers3

6

Have a look at this thread:

http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=67&t=113024&p=777781&hilit=classictheme#p777781

They're discussing/testing how to modify windows binary files to "get back" to classic interface by "unusual" methods, rather than just turning colors into gray! But it appears to be very complex due to totally different structure of explorer, windows manager and whatelse in Windows 10 w.r.t. previous versions. Note: be sure to create a restore point before running ClassicTheme.exe for testing! It can screw up whole interface!

For the start menu, things are easier thanks to ClassicShell: http://www.classicshell.net/gallery/

Additionally, try googling for: Classic AE by Saarineames (download from deviantart) Aero Lite Theme (among other things, make windows border larger than one pixel, for better resize and better visibility)

You can also play (carefully) with registry keys:

  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\DWM (you can add AccentColorInactive key here, or edit existing keys)
  • KEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize

http://www.thewindowsclub.com/get-colored-window-title-bar-windows-10

Ultimate Windows Tweaker is also an amazing tool:

http://www.thewindowsclub.com/image-gallery-for-uwt4

jumpjack
  • 465
2

On Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 1903 and above I suggest to use Explorer Patcher and ClassicThemeTray:

Windows 11 in classic theme, with the help of ExplorerPatcher and OpenShell

Check this GitHub discussion for a detailed tutorial.

Anixx
  • 708
1

Its impossible to change it to:

Windows XP

If you are REALLY desperate for the classic theme, downgrade to Windows 7. Or go along with this

Windows 8 Version of classic

PyxlWuff
  • 517