Struggling to read small text on your Windows 11 computer screen? Or maybe the fonts look too big and take up too much space? Don’t worry—Windows 11 gives you plenty of control over the font size so you can adjust it to your preference. Whether you want larger text for better readability or smaller fonts for more screen space, this guide will walk you through the steps in a simple, beginner-friendly way.
Why Change the Font Size in Windows 11?
Think of font size as the “glasses” for your screen. If the text looks too tiny, you’ll strain your eyes; if it’s too big, you’ll have less room for content. Adjusting font size can:
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Improve readability for users with vision difficulties.
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Reduce eye strain when working long hours.
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Enhance productivity by fitting more or less text on the screen.
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Customize your experience to suit personal comfort.
Method 1: Change Font Size Through Display Settings
The easiest way to change the text size across your entire system is by adjusting Display Settings.
Steps
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Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
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Scroll down and click Scale & layout.
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Under Scale, choose a percentage (e.g., 100%, 125%, 150%).
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A higher percentage = larger text and UI.
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A lower percentage = smaller text and more space.
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Windows will automatically apply the new font size.
Note: This changes not only the text size but also the size of apps and icons.
Method 2: Change Only Text Size in Accessibility Settings
If you don’t want to change the size of icons or apps, just the text size, Windows 11 has a dedicated option.
Steps
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accessibility → Text size.
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Use the slider under “Text size” to increase or decrease the font size.
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Click Apply to confirm.
This way, only the text is resized while keeping other elements the same.
Method 3: Adjust Font Size in Specific Apps
Sometimes, you may only want to adjust font size in apps like your browser, Word, or Outlook.
For Google Chrome / Edge
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Press Ctrl + Plus (+) to zoom in (increase font size).
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Press Ctrl + Minus (-) to zoom out (decrease font size).
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Press Ctrl + 0 to reset zoom.
For Microsoft Word
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Highlight text → Press Ctrl + Shift + > to increase font size.
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Press Ctrl + Shift + < to decrease font size.
For Outlook / Email Clients
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Use View → Zoom settings to enlarge or shrink font size.
Method 4: Change Font Size with Magnifier Tool (Temporary)
If you don’t want to permanently change font size but just need a quick zoom:
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Press Windows + Plus (+) to open Magnifier.
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Use the +/- keys to zoom in or out.
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Press Windows + Esc to exit Magnifier.
Tips for Choosing the Right Font Size
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Try 125% scaling if you feel the default 100% is too small.
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Use Accessibility text slider if you only want larger text but the same UI size.
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Test different sizes until you find one that feels comfortable.
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Pair with Night Light mode to reduce eye strain when reading at night.
Conclusion
Changing the font size on your Windows 11 computer screen is quick, easy, and makes a big difference in comfort and usability. Whether you adjust the whole display, just the text, or individual apps, you’re in full control of how things look on your screen.
So, if the default text feels too small or too big, tweak it using the steps above—you’ll thank yourself the next time you’re working for hours without eye strain.
FAQs
1. Can I change the font style in Windows 11 along with font size?
Not directly from Settings. You can only adjust the size. Changing the style requires advanced tweaks with the Registry.
2. Will changing the scale affect app layouts?
Yes, some apps may look slightly different when scaling is increased, but most modern apps adjust automatically.
3. Can I set different font sizes for different monitors?
Yes, if you use multiple displays, Windows 11 lets you customize scaling separately for each monitor.
4. Is there a shortcut to quickly change text size?
No direct shortcut exists, but you can use Magnifier (Windows + Plus) for temporary zoom.
5. What’s the best font size for laptops with small screens?
A scaling of 125% or 150% usually works best for 13–15 inch laptops.