When compared to the vast world of Linux and other open-source platforms, Windows could be one of the least customizable Operating Systems out there. However, this does not mean that you cannot personalize the experience at all. Even with the restricted nature, there are some aspects of Windows that you can alter, and icon packs are one of them. Changing the icon pack in Windows can transform the way the interface will look to you and others.
So, at least once in a while, that’s a way of marking your own style by choosing the right set of icons.
In this article, we have listed 10 of the most beautiful Windows 10 icon packs you can find. Because Windows 10 has built-in support for changing the icons and ensuring the best customizability, the process of changing the icons is relatively simple. For the sake of those who are new to this, we will also tell you how to do it. So, before we start the list of icon packs and how diverse they are, we will tell you how you change icons in the Windows 10 environment. Check best Windows 10 themes and Windows 11 icons packs.
Also Check:
- Best Windows 11 Themes, Skins and Icons for Windows 10
- Best Mac Themes for Windows 10 : Transform Windows into a Mac
- Best Windows 11 Themes & Skins To Download: Themes for Windows 11
How to Change Icons in Windows 10
Before we go to the steps, you need to understand something: there are three types of icons in Windows 10 and changing them requires different steps. The three ones are desktop icons, shortcut icons and file and folder icons. We will take you through the process of changing all these icon packs or individual icons. Let’s get started.
How to Change Desktop Icons in Windows 10
This process is comparatively easy. If you want to change the icons for desktop icons like Computer and Bin, you need to follow the steps shown below.
- Click on the Start button and choose Settings from the menu
- Go to Personalization and pick Themes from the sidebar
- Now, click on the link called Desktop icon settings.
- Here, you will be able to decide which icons are present on the desktop.
- To change an individual icon, click on the icon and select the option named Change Icon
- In the upcoming window, you can see a list of available icons. You can press the Browse button if you want to explore further.
- Using the dialogue box, open the icon pack you want to.
- Select the icon you want to replace the existing ones with.
Yay! This way, you will be able to change how the desktop icons look.
How to Change Folder Icons in Windows 10
Given that you are not using a third-party application, you have to change the icons of individual folders, one by one. The process is as follows.
- You have to right click on the Folder you want to change the icon of and choose Properties
- Under the Customize tab in the next window, choose the Change Icon button
- In the upcoming window as well, click on the Change Icon button.
- Just like we did before, you can browse and choose the Icon pack
- Wait for Windows to apply the changes
This is very simple and there is a restore button if you ever want to go back.
How to Change File Icons in Windows 10
Instead of changing individual file icons, you can change the icons for certain file types. However, you need a third-party app like FileTypesMan to do this. Once you have downloaded this program, you can follow the steps below to get the job done.
- You have to open FileTypesMan and you will be able to see the list of file types available in your PC.
- From the list, you have to select the file type whose icon you want to change.
- Right click on the selection and choose Edit Selected File Type to proceed.
- Now, in the upcoming window, click on the Browse button next to the Default Icon option
- Choose the icon from the file explorer and enjoy the new looks.
This wasn’t that hard, was it? FileTypesMan is actually a great tool when it comes to managing file types in the computer and not just for changing the icons of individual files.
Best 10 Beautiful Windows 10 Icon Packs
Now that you know how to change icons for each category, shall we check out the best icon packs for Windows 10?
#1 Simplus
Simplus is a popular icon pack that adds minimalism to your Windows 10 interface. Noted for the minimalist set of looks and shades, Simplus icons give pleasure to the eyes. These are mostly folder icons and you will be able to choose between Light icons and Dark icons as per your needs. It can be installed using the second method.
#2 Lumicons
If you are looking for something more advanced and colorful, you should consider the Lumicons icon pack for Windows 10. Unlike the first pack, this one contains a variety of icons such as Desktop Icons, Windows icons, Adobe CC apps, folder icons and all. Even within these selections, you can choose different shades and colors.
#3 Winremix Slate Icon Pack
Winremix Slate Icon Pack is a great choice if you are looking for some modern UI icons for Windows 10. Once again, this is a comprehensive icon pack in that you get icons for various types. Not only the desktop icons but also the other folder icons and app icons are included in the pack. This icon pack would add a new flare to your PC experience.
#4 Folder Flat Colors
This is a great icon pack if you just want variety while organizing folders. As the name says, you can’t expect anything more than folder icons in the package. That having said, it gets the job done when you need one well-organized desktop. Of course, the installation is simple, and you can change the individual folder icons as per your needs.
#5 Insignia Icon Theme
Insignia Icon Theme is an amazing choice if you need a different approach towards file icons on Windows 10 system. Because we are dealing with a comprehensive package, you don’t have to search any further. Just like icing on the cake, Insignia Icon Theme offers you icons even for web apps like Google Drive and Gmail, if you’re into that.
#6 Numix Circle
Numix Circle could be one of the best Windows 10 icon packs out there if you are looking for a circular icon set. The beauty of the icon pack is in how it transforms your taskbar and desktop into a modern one in just no time. Another comprehensive package, you don’t have to worry about mixing and matching some icons to create a disruption.
#7 Shadow 135
If you want some extra shadow-ish icons for the Windows 10 interface, you should consider the Shadow 135 icon pack for sure. Packed with icons for almost every purpose, this icon pack would make things easier for the aesthetic enthusiast in you. While it does not have many app-based icons, it will replace almost all the Folder and Drive icons.
#8 Star Trek Folders
If you are a Star Trek fan and want to add some tone of the same into your desktop and UI, you should check out this wonderful icon pack. The Star Trek Folders icon pack is very easy to install and offers some of the best looks you can give for Windows 10. What’s more, the same set is available for macOS, if you are into making things common.
#9 Agua
Agua is actually an icon pack that has originally been made for macOS versions, but you would love to have the same icons on your Windows 10 task bar. The icons are known for their simple design and the overall appeal to the eyes. The problem here is that the collection is very limited, but Agua can help you when you have time to customize.
#10 Pixelated Icon Set
Pixelated Icon Set is your gateway if you want to give that retro look to your desktop and task bar. The icons may cause some problem to the eyes, but you will get used to the style in no time. Once everything is done and dusted, do not mind if the desktop looks like an old video game from 80s or 90s. Despite all these, it’s a cool choice.
The Bottom Line
What do you think of these icon packs? We believe they add some flare and individuality to the Windows 10 experience you want to have. We hope this list helps.
William Wilson says
Insignia Icon pack looks interesting. Downloading the same. Thanks for recommendation.
Tushar Thakur says
Thanks
Frank Cruz says
Thank you Tushar for sharing this information and the icon packs. Would love to try one of these packs.
Tushar Thakur says
You are welcome Frank. Yes do try and let me know 🙂
Fredrick Talbot says
I’ve used Numix Circle on Linux many times. Good to know we can get these beautiful icons on the Windows too.
Thanks a lot.
Tushar Thakur says
You are welcome.
Rashid Johnson says
Nice list. Do Mac users have privilege of changing icons?
Tushar Thakur says
Yes you can change icon in mac also.
Anna Jordan says
Thanks a lot for these icons.
Tushar Thakur says
You are welcome Anna.
Jason Ewing says
Thanks a lot for this icon packs. But is there anything I can do about the size of these icons? They are pretty big on my screen.
Charles Pierce says
Do you have anything similar to the macos icons? Desperately need the Macos Icons
David Brower says
Downloading Lumicons. Thanks a lot for this amazing icon pack.
Tushar Thakur says
You are welcome David.
Rebecca Hisey says
Hello, Can’t see the option to change the icons in my Windows 10 installation. What to do now?
Shawana B says
Great list. Loved these icons. Still confused which one to choose. Do you have anything favorite that I can try?
Tushar Thakur says
Haha you can check top 3.
Willow Weber says
Nice list. Thanks, Tushar.
Tushar Thakur says
Thanks Willow
Harlan Moore says
Can I use these icons on Windows 8 too?
Tushar Thakur says
Yes, you can Harlan. 🙂
eric says
There’s a better way to do this. You shouldn’t have to individually change every single folder icon. That’s ridiculous.
Bedanta Dey says
Epic icons! Epic like Tushar!