Is there a way to remove the names of the programs from the start menu, leaving only the icons?

Customizing Your Start Menu: Removing Program Names for a Minimalist Look

If you’re someone who prefers a clean and minimalist interface, you may be frustrated with the way program names clutter your Start Menu. Long names often result in line breaks and ellipses, breaking the visual flow and making it harder to scan through your applications quickly. For example, a program like Figma with a name that fits neatly on one line looks aesthetically pleasing, but what about those with longer names? Luckily, there are some potential solutions to achieve a cleaner layout by removing program names and leaving only the icons visible.

Understanding the Start Menu Layout

The Start Menu serves as the gateway to your applications, allowing you to launch them effortlessly. However, by default, program names are displayed alongside their icons, which can become cumbersome, especially for visual-oriented users. This is particularly true when you prefer an organized, streamlined workspace devoid of unnecessary text.

Achieving a Minimalist Start Menu

While Windows does not provide a direct option to hide program names in the Start Menu, there are a few alternative methods you can explore to create a more visually appealing setup.

1. Custom Toolbars:
   One way to minimize clutter in your Start Menu is to create custom toolbars on your taskbar. You can add shortcuts to your frequently used programs, which can display only icons without names. Right-click on the taskbar, select “Toolbars,” then choose “New Toolbar.” You can navigate to a folder where you have shortcuts stored and create a custom toolbar. The result will be a clean row of icons that are easily accessible.
2. Third-Party Start Menu Alternatives:
   There are various third-party applications that change the way your Start Menu operates. Programs like Classic Shell or Open-Shell allow for significant customization, including hiding program names and displaying only icons. With these tools, you can often adjust settings to fit your preferences, such as icon size and layout, to achieve that desired minimalist look.
3. Desktop Shortcuts:
   Another simple approach is to create desktop shortcuts for your most-used applications. You can right-click on the desktop, go to “New,” and then “Shortcut,” allowing you to point directly to the application. You can rename these shortcuts to single words or leave them unnamed if you wish. However, keep in mind that you will still need to see the icon name when managing the shortcuts.
4. Taskbar Pinning:
   If your goal is quicker access without clutter, consider pinning your favorite programs to the taskbar. Right-click the app in the Start Menu or from the application itself, and select “Pin to taskbar.” The pinned app will only show the icon, giving you quick access without the distraction of names cluttering your workspace.
5. Using Folder Shortcuts:
   Group similar applications into folders. You can create a folder on your desktop, and then drag and drop relevant application icons in. When you need to access a specific app, just open the folder to view its contents in icon view.

Conclusion: Embracing Minimalism in Your Workspace

While it may not be possible to achieve a completely name-free Start Menu with built-in features, the above workarounds can help you create a visually cleaner workspace. By utilizing custom toolbars, third-party apps, or desktop shortcuts, you can limit the clutter and design your computer environment to better suit your style. Whether you are a designer, developer, or just someone who values aesthetics, a minimalistic approach to your Start Menu can enhance your overall user experience.