Miss the taskbar from Windows XP or 98, with text labels on every button? The free RetroBar swaps the modern taskbar for layouts modeled on classic Windows releases. It brings back labeled task buttons and smaller icons, with controls for arranging the bar and choosing its appearance.
RetroBar brings back classic taskbar layouts
Styles range from Windows 95 through XP up to Vista. The task list uses smaller icons and labels, making open windows easier to distinguish at a glance. A Start button opens the modern Start menu.
RetroBar includes a notification area with balloon notifications, a switcher for keyboard languages, and an optional clock. The notification area can be set to collapse, with icons reordered by dragging.
Taskbar controls cover placement and window switching
Adjust the bar to suit the screen layout and the way open apps are organized:
- Move it to any side of the screen, including on Windows 11.
- Resize it, use multiple rows, or turn on auto-hide.
- Extend the bar, tray and clock across every connected screen.
- Lock the bar in place or leave it unlocked.
- Display Vista-style previews of open windows.
Themes change the taskbar’s appearance
Built-in themes include classic, XP, and Vista system styles, along with Windows 95–98, Me, and 2000 looks. XP fans get the blue, olive and silver Luna colors plus Royale and a Zune look; Vista options include Aero, Basic, and Classic.
RetroBar also supports custom themes and languages. Theme files use the XAML ResourceDictionary format, and custom files can be added through Properties > Advanced or placed in a Themes or Languages folder under the local application data directory.
Pros
- Offers taskbar themes modeled on classic Windows styles
- Task buttons support UWP apps and drag reordering
- Can place the taskbar on any screen edge
- Supports multiple taskbar rows and multiple monitors
System requirements: Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows 11 · Microsoft .NET Desktop Runtime
Does RetroBar replace the Start menu?
No. Its Start button opens the modern Start menu.
Can RetroBar show taskbars on multiple monitors?
Yes. Yes. The bar, tray and clock can appear on every connected screen.
Can I add a custom taskbar theme?
Yes. RetroBar supports custom XAML theme files, which can be added through Properties > Advanced or placed in its Themes folder.