Learn how to enable or disable Compact View in File Explorer to show more files or fewer files with comfortable space between each file.
One of the biggest changes in Windows 11 File Explorer is that it is very much optimized for touch screens. That means there is more space between files, other icons, and in the right-click context menu. While showing the list of files with a comfortable amount of space/gap between them is good, the downside is that you will have fewer files in the same window. This can be an issue, especially on a smaller screen.
The good thing is that, when needed, you can turn on the compact view mode in Windows 11 File Explorer to reduce white space and show more files. Of course, if you ever change your mind, you can just as easily turn off the compact view to restore the default view.
In this quick and easy Windows 11 guide, let me show you the steps to turn on or off compact view in File Explorer. Let’s get started.
Turn ON Compact View in File Explorer
To turn on the Compact View in File Explorer, you need to select the Compact View option. Here is where to find and select it.
- Open the File Explorer by pressing “Windows key + E”.
- Click “View“.
- Select the “Show” > “Compact View” option.
- With that, the compact view option is turned on.
- The gap between items should be reduced now.
Detailed Steps (With Screenshots)
The option we are looking for is located in the File Explorer itself. So, we need to open it first. To do that, press the “Windows key + E” shortcut or click on the “File Explorer” icon on the taskbar. Of course, you can also search for the same in the Start menu.
After opening the File Explorer, select “View” on the command bar, select the “Show” option, and then select the “Compact View” option.
As soon as you do that, the spacing between items in File Explorer will be reduced instantly.
That is it. It is that simple to turn on compact view in File Explorer in Windows 11.
Turn OFF Compact View in File Explorer
- Open the File Explorer by pressing “Windows key + E”.
- Click “View“.
- Select “Show,” then uncheck the “Compact View” option.
- With that, the compact view option is turned OFF.
- The gap between items should be increased now.
That is all. It is that simple to enable or disable compact view in File Explorer on Windows 11. If you have any questions or need help, comment below. I’ll be happy to assist.
Related: How to restore the classic context menu in Windows 11 file explorer
