The , as Microsoft completely redesigned the taskbar to focus on a centered, simplified layout. For power users who relied on this feature since the days of Windows XP and Windows 7 to launch apps without cluttering their desktops, its absence can heavily disrupt daily workflows.
While the modern taskbar is efficient, many power users miss the classic functionality of the Quick Launch bar. Fortunately, you can still bring this feature back. This article will guide you through restoring the bar, along with modern alternatives to boost your productivity. What is the Quick Launch Toolbar?
| 需求 | 推荐方案 | 操作难度 | 推荐指数 | |------|---------|---------|---------| | 缩短开机时间（HDD或老款SSD） | 开启Fast Startup开机快速启动 | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | | 解决双系统、驱动或外设兼容性问题 | 关闭Fast Startup，改为冷启动 | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | | 仅需任务栏显示5-8个最常用软件 | 直接固定到Windows 11任务栏 | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | | 需要任务栏容纳10个以上快捷方式 | 新建工具栏：手工创建Quick Launch | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | | 希望完全回归Win7/10经典任务栏体验 | StartAllBack 付费方案 | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | | 追求键盘流操作极速启动各类应用 | PowerToys Run + Win+数字快捷键 | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | | 为大量应用设置统一的管理式快速启动目录 | Quick Launch文件夹 + 自定义子目录 | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Because Windows 11 does not allow you to add custom toolbars to the taskbar natively, the closest built-in alternative is using the system or the Recommended/Pinned section of the Start Menu. However, you can create a dedicated "Quick Launch" folder on your desktop or file explorer for easy access. Step 1: Create a Dedicated Quick Launch Folder Open File Explorer (Windows Key + E).
Right-click the taskbar and ensure is unchecked. Right-click the words "Quick Launch" on the toolbar. windows 11 quick launch
Is there a good Quick Launch alternative for 23H2? : r/windows
Fortunately, the flexibility of the Windows ecosystem ensures you are never truly locked out of your preferred setup. Whether you choose to modify your system using open-source tools like ExplorerPatcher, adapt to native keyboard workflows, or embrace modern productivity suites like PowerToys, you can easily reclaim the lightning-fast access that the Quick Launch toolbar pioneered decades ago.
Right-click your taskbar, navigate to , and check Quick Launch . You can then unlock the taskbar to drag, resize, and hide text or titles just like in older versions of Windows. Summary: Which Method Should You Choose?
Alternatively, drag and drop existing shortcuts from your desktop into this folder. Step 3: Create an Accessible Desktop Hub The , as Microsoft completely redesigned the taskbar
Enabling Quick Launch in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. Here's how:
Browse to the executable file ( .exe ) of the program you want to add, or paste its file path. Click , name the shortcut, and click Finish .
The default centered icons in Windows 11 can make app launching feel unfamiliar. To make it feel more like older versions of Windows: Open ( Windows Key + I ). Go to Personalization > Taskbar . Click on Taskbar behaviors . Change Taskbar alignment from Center to Left . Summary Comparison: Which Method Should You Choose? Native Folder System purists 100% safe; no third-party code Doesn't sit directly on the taskbar RetroBar Nostalgia lovers True single-click classic taskbar Changes the entire look of your OS Windhawk Power users Keeps Win 11 look with legacy tools Requires running a modding engine Keyboard Hotkeys Speed users Blazing fast; no setup required Limited to 10 applications
Are you comfortable using like Windhawk? Fortunately, you can still bring this feature back
Note: If you find the text distracting, right-click the new toolbar name, ensure "Lock the taskbar" is unchecked, and drag the handle to shrink it until only the icons or arrows are visible, then re-lock the taskbar.
Despite the official removal, users can restore Quick Launch functionality through two primary methods:
By organizing your top 10 most used apps on the far left of your taskbar, you can launch them instantly without ever touching your mouse.
Right-click your desktop > New > Folder. Name it "Quick Launch."
Because Microsoft stripped out the legacy taskbar code, the most effective way to restore the true Quick Launch behavior is to use a free, open-source tool like . This utility safely swaps the rigid Windows 11 taskbar style back to the highly customizable Windows 10 shell while retaining your Windows 11 features. Step 1: Install ExplorerPatcher
In Windows 11, the classic Quick Launch toolbar found in previous versions has been officially removed. Microsoft has shifted to a simplified taskbar where pinning applications is the primary method for quick access. Microsoft Community Hub Ways to Restore or Mimic Quick Launch