How to get custom themes in Windows 11 using official Microsoft store methods
Transform your desktop appearance by downloading design packages directly from the Microsoft Store.
Open Settings , go to Personalization, select Themes, and click Browse themes to open the Microsoft Store on microsoft.com. Select any package and click Get or Install to download it , then return to Settings and click the new package to apply it to your desktop.
How to get themes 🪟 windows 11 site microsoft.com
Open Settings by pressing the Win+I on your keyboard, select Personalization from the left-hand menu, and click on Themes to browse and install verified visual packages from the official Microsoft Store.
- Open Settings by pressing the Win+I on your keyboard.
Windows 11 Start menu with Settings gear icon highlighted. - Select Personalization from the left-hand menu.
Windows 11 Personalization in the Settings app - Click on Themes to open your current visual options and installed packages.
Settings › Personalization › Themes - Look for the section that says “Browse themes” and click the Browse themes button. This opens the Microsoft Store directly to the design gallery.
- Click on any theme package that catches your eye to open its dedicated page.
- Click the Get or Install button to download the files to your computer.
- Return to your Settings window, go back to Themes, and click on your newly downloaded package to apply it.
Exploring the Microsoft Store Theme Categories
Microsoft Store theme categories help you find visual packages that match your personal taste by sorting designs into groups like wildlife, National Geographic photography, minimalist art, and gaming tie-ins. Most packages include a rotating set of wallpapers that update automatically, along with matching window colors and system sounds to completely change the look of your desktop.
Categories include wildlife, national geographic photography, minimalist designs, and automotive showcases. Most packages include a rotation of multiple high-definition background images that automatically cycle through your desktop at set intervals, alongside a coordinated color scheme for your taskbar and window borders.
Managing and Switching Between Installed Themes
Managing and switching between installed themes in Windows 11 lets you swap your desktop look instantly without downloading files again. Right-click any empty space on your desktop, select Personalize to open your visual settings, and click on the Themes section to view every package currently stored on your machine and apply a new one with a single click.
Under the Themes section, you can see every package currently stored on your machine. Clicking any thumbnail instantly changes your desktop background, accent color, system sounds, and mouse cursor style if the package includes custom pointers. You can also right-click an individual theme thumbnail to delete it if you no longer want it on your drive.
Creating Custom Themes from Downloaded Packages
Creating custom themes from downloaded packages lets you mix and match elements instead of sticking to preset layouts from the Microsoft Store. Apply a downloaded package first, then click on Background within the Personalization menu to change wallpaper rotation times, or select Colors to override the automatic accent color and build a unique hybrid desktop look.
Click on Background within the Personalization menu to change how often your wallpapers rotate, or select Colors to override the automatic accent color chosen by the package. Windows automatically saves your modifications as a "Custom Theme" at the top of your themes list, ensuring you do not lose your personalized setup when you restart your computer.
Troubleshooting Theme Download Issues
Troubleshooting theme download issues usually involves fixing connection glitches or Microsoft account synchronization errors within the Store app. If downloads fail to start or hang indefinitely, clear your store cache by pressing the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, typing wsreset.exe, and pressing Enter to restart the application.
If downloads fail to start or hang indefinitely, clear your Microsoft Store cache. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. A blank command prompt window will open briefly, clearing the cache before automatically launching a fresh Microsoft Store window.
What to do next
With your new desktop theme successfully applied, explore further personalization options like customizing your lock screen images or setting up virtual desktops to organize your open application windows.
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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.
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