Enable Compact View in Windows 11 File Explorer

This post shows students and new users steps to enable or disable File Explorer compact view when using Windows 11. File Explorer has a new default layout that adds extra padding between items making it easier to use on touchscreen devices.

The extra padding adds additional spaces between the items list, which can increase the scroll, especially when you have many folders and files, and may not fit on a single view pane without a long scroll to the bottom.

If you’re not using a touchscreen device and have many folders in a view pane, you can restore the classic layout and enable compact mode. The compact mode fits many items in a single view pane by removing the extra padding and spaces between items in File Explorer.

Although many new features have been added to Windows 11, the compact view isn’t new. It was initially introduced in Windows 10.

To get started with enabling compact mode in Windows 11, follow the steps below:

How to turn on File Explorer compact view in Windows 11

As mentioned, File Explorer compact mode allows more items to fit in a small area compared to the default layout.

Here is a screenshot of File Explorer’s default layout

To enable compact mode, click the ellipse (three dots in the toolbar menu), then select Options.

Under Advanced settings, select “Decrease space between items (compact view)” on the View tab.

Once enabled, the result should be instant. Now File Explorer should reverse to the classic layout without the extra padding.

How to disable File Explorer compact view in Windows 11

If you change your mind about using the classic layout in File Explorer, you can reverse the changes and go back to its default layout in Windows 11.

To do that, reverse the steps above by clicking the ellipse (three dots) and selecting Options. Then uncheck the box for On the View tab, under Advanced settings, select “Decrease space between items (compact view).”

That’s it!

Conclusion:

• Enabling compact view in File Explorer allows for better organization and visibility of files and folders, especially for users with many items.
• The process to toggle between layouts is straightforward and can be reversed at any time.
• Compact mode enhances productivity by reducing unnecessary scrolling.
• Familiarity with these settings helps users customize their File Explorer experience to better suit their needs.
• The compact view option, though initially introduced in Windows 10, continues to be a valuable feature in Windows 11.