By john 
File Explorer in Windows 11 adds extra spacing between items by default to make them easier to tap on touchscreens. If you prefer the tighter, more information-dense layout of earlier Windows versions, you can enable Compact view.
Windows 11 places a strong emphasis on personalization, giving you more ways than ever to shape how the system looks and behaves. Tailoring these settings is not just about appearance; a layout that matches how you work reduces friction and makes everyday tasks feel more natural. The change below is reversible, so you can YYKOIN experiment freely and settle on what suits you best.
Why This Is Worth Doing
Compact view fits more files and folders on screen at once, which is helpful when navigating large directories. It restores the denser look many keyboard-and-mouse users prefer over the touch-friendly default spacing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to get it done. Each one is straightforward, and you can stop once you have achieved what you need:
- Open File Explorer from the taskbar or by pressing Windows + E.
- Click the View menu in the toolbar at the top.
- Select Compact view from the dropdown.
- The spacing between files and folders will immediately tighten.
- Toggle it off the same way to return to the default spacing.
Helpful Tips
Keep these points in mind to get the most out of this feature and avoid common mistakes:
- Compact view is especially useful in folders with many small files.
- It pairs well with the Details layout for maximum information density.
- The setting applies across File Explorer, not just the current folder.
Good to Know
Compact view is a quick way to make File Explorer feel more like previous Windows versions. It changes only spacing, so all the same features and layouts remain available.
Final Thoughts
This is one of the many small adjustments that make Windows 11 work better for the way you use your PC. Once you have set it up, it takes only moments and becomes second nature. If you do not see exactly the same options described here, your version of Windows 11 may be slightly different, since Microsoft updates the interface periodically; in that case, the relevant setting is usually nearby under the same section. Exploring the related settings around it often reveals other useful options worth adjusting at the same time. Taking a little time to configure your system the way you like it pays off every day you use your PC, turning a generic setup into one that genuinely fits your needs.