How to increase text size on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To increase text size on Windows, you can adjust the display settings through the Settings app or use the Accessibility options. This can help improve readability for users who find the default text size too small.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before adjusting text size on Windows, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A Windows PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
  • •Administrator access may be required for certain changes.
  • •No additional software is necessary, as all tools are built into Windows.
  • •Backup important data to avoid any potential loss during system adjustments.

Method 1: Adjusting Text Size through Display Settings

This method is the primary approach for increasing text size and is suitable for most users.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings'.
  • •Step 2: In the Display settings window, locate the 'Scale and layout' section.
  • •Step 3: Under 'Change the size of text, apps, and other items', use the dropdown to select a percentage (e.g., 125%, 150%).
  • •Step 4: Click 'Apply' to confirm changes. You may need to sign out and back in for changes to take effect.
  • •Step 5: Verify the text size has increased by checking various applications and the desktop.
  • •Step 6: If the text size does not change, repeat the steps and ensure the correct scaling percentage is selected.

For Windows 11

In Windows 11, the interface may look slightly different but the steps are similar.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings'.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down to 'Scale and layout'.
  • •Step 3: Adjust the 'Scale' dropdown to a higher percentage.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Keep changes' if prompted.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find the settings in a similar location.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings'.
  • •Step 2: Under 'Scale and layout', adjust the scaling percentage.
  • •Step 3: Click 'Apply' and confirm any prompts.

Method 2: Using Accessibility Settings

This method is beneficial for users with visual impairments or those who require larger text across all applications.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + I' to open the Settings app.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Ease of Access'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Display' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Under 'Make text bigger', use the slider to increase the text size.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Apply' to save changes.
  • •Step 6: Check various applications to ensure the text size has increased.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to increase text size, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Changes did not apply' - Solution: Ensure you have selected a supported scaling percentage and try signing out and back in.
  • •Issue: Text size is inconsistent across applications - Fix: Some applications may not support scaling; try adjusting settings within those specific apps.
  • •Problem: Text appears blurry after scaling - Workaround: Adjust the resolution settings in the Display settings and try different scaling percentages.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips and shortcuts to enhance your experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + '+' (plus key)' - This opens the Magnifier tool, allowing you to zoom in on specific areas of the screen.
  • •Command line: 'Control Panel' - Access legacy settings for more advanced display options.
  • •Hidden feature: 'ClearType Text Tuner' - Access this by searching for 'Adjust ClearType text' in the Start menu to fine-tune text clarity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, use a combination of display settings and accessibility options to ensure text is readable across all applications.