How to Enable or Disable Compact View in File Explorer on Windows 11

Microsoft has incorporated a ton of features into Windows 11’s Explorer, including a compact view in File Explorer, a search widget, tabs, and more.

The update also shipped with a new interface, which when compared to the classic layout before the revamp, features huge gaps between items. This is extremely helpful because it enhances the visibility of items, especially for users with small screens or multiple monitors.

It also enhances usability though there are some users that prefer the classic layout still. Luckily, the redesign ships with a feature called compact view that allows users to revert back to the classic layout.

Here’s what you need to do to make the switch using compact view in File Explorer:

1. Enable Compact View Using File Explorer Settings

1. Press Windows + E keys to launch File Explorer on your Windows 11 PC.
2. Click on the View menu, then select the Compact view option from the drop-down menu.

Likewise, if you want to disable this feature using compact view in File Explorer, simply repeat the steps highlighted above. However, this time ensure that you uncheck the Compact view box.

2. Enable Compact View Using Folder Options

1. Press Windows + R keys to launch the Run dialog box.
2. Type control folders and press Enter to launch the File Explorer Folder options dialog box.
3. Head to the View tab, then below the Advanced settings section find the Decrease space between items (compact view) option, and check the box.
4. Finally, select Apply and click on OK to save your changes.

If you want to disable compact view in File Explorer using this method, repeat the steps highlighted above but ensure that you uncheck the Decrease space between items (compact view) in step 3 then proceed to save your changes.

3. Enable Compact View Using The Registry Editor

1. Press Windows + R keys to launch the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit in the dialog box, then press Enter.
3. Navigate through this path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
4. Then, on the right pane, double-click on the UseCompactMode option and select Modify.
5. In the Value data entry, key in 1 then click OK.

To disable compact view in File Explorer using the Registry Editor in Windows 11, repeat the steps highlighted steps above, but in the last step replace 1 with 0 then click on OK to save your changes.

Be sure to also check out our hands-on video with tabs in Windows 11 File Explorer and other new features below:

Enhance Navigation in File Explorer

With the methods highlighted above, you should be able to switch back to File Explorer’s classic layout. This will help you to view everything on your screen without necessarily having to scroll down thus enhancing your productivity.

We also invite you to check out our expert guide that will help you better manage your files or folders on Windows File Explorer. Let us know which File Explorer layout you prefer in the comment section.