How to Change viewing options in OneDrive (List, Grid, Compact)
OneDrive layout options let you switch between List, Grid, and Compact views so you can browse your files the way you want. Grid view shows large picture previews, Compact view fits more items on your screen at once, and the standard List view gives you a clean file breakdown.
You can change these views anytime using the layout buttons at the top right of your OneDrive screen. Picking the right layout helps you find photos and documents much faster.
Change your OneDrive viewing options by logging into OneDrive.com and clicking the view icons, usually found at the top of your file list, to select List, Compact List, or Grid view.
Understanding the Different Views
OneDrive offers three main file viewing options: List View, Grid View, and Compact View. List View arranges files in columns with details like name and modification date. Grid View swaps text for larger thumbnail previews. Compact View tightens spacing to show more items at once.
- List View: This looks like a standard file explorer . You’ll see your files and folders listed one after another. There will be columns showing details like the Name, Date Modified, and File Size. This view is good for seeing a lot of information at once and is especially helpful when you want to sort your files by specific details.
- Compact List View: This is like a slightly tighter version of the List view. It uses a little less space on your screen. This can be useful if you have many items and want to see more of them without scrolling down. It still shows you the main information you need.
- Grid View (or Tiles View): This view focuses on visuals! Instead of just text, you’ll see larger boxes for each item. For pictures and documents, you’ll get a small preview or thumbnail image directly in the box. This view is great for quickly recognizing photos or documents by what’s inside them, not just their names. It makes looking through visual content more enjoyable.
How to Change Your View
OneDrive file views let you change how your files look. On OneDrive.com, find small icons near the top of your file list. Clicking these icons switches between List, Grid, and Compact views, helping you find what you need faster.
- Log in to OneDrive: First, open your web browser and go to OneDrive.com. Sign in using your Microsoft account details.
- Find the View Options: Once you are in your OneDrive, look near the top of the main area where your files are listed. You should see some icons that change how your files are shown. These icons might look a bit different depending on your current view, but they are usually grouped together.
- Choose Your Preferred View: You will typically see three icons that represent the different views. They often look like this:
- A list icon (sometimes like lines of text) for List view.
- A more compact list icon for Compact List view.
- A grid or tile icon for Grid view.
Reference:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-US/onedrive/change-views-on-the-onedrive-website
Summary
OneDrive offers List, Grid, and Compact views to help tailor file presentation to specific workflows.
How do I change the view settings in OneDrive?
Change viewing options in OneDrive (List, Grid, Compact) on the top menu bar to display the options: Select to display contents as a list.
How do I change the file view on OneDrive?
Sort files and folders in OneDrive on the web. Confirm the interface is set to List view by selecting it from the View options on the top menu bar. Select a column header, then select the display order you prefer.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!