Overview
This guide explains how to change app icons on Windows 10 using built-in options, third‑party utilities, and manual methods. Windows 10 lets you personalize individual apps and the Start layout without installing software, though more advanced changes may require icon extractors or shortcut property edits. The steps below cover Store apps, classic desktop apps, and common troubleshooting tips to ensure your new icons display correctly and persist after restarts.
Understanding Shortcuts and App Executables
How icon references work in Windows 10
An icon on your desktop or Start menu is typically a shortcut that references an executable (.exe), dynamic link library (.dll), or icon file (.ico). Changing the icon in Windows updates the shortcut’s icon reference rather than the app’s original executable. This means you can safely customize appearances without altering system files or risking app integrity.
- Shortcut files (.lnk): Store the path to the target executable and custom icon settings.
- Executable and library files (.exe/.dll): Often contain multiple icons used by the app.
- Icon files (.ico): Single‑image files that can be assigned to shortcuts.
Built‑In Methods for Changing Icons
Changing icons for desktop shortcuts
You can change the icon for any desktop or taskbar shortcut using standard Windows properties. This method works for traditional Win32 apps and is reversible at any time.
- Right‑click the shortcut and choose Properties.
- On the Shortcut tab, click Change Icon.
- Browse to an .exe, .dll, or .ico file and select an icon, or paste a path to a custom .ico file.
- Click OK to apply, then Apply and OK again to save the shortcut properties.
Changing icons for Start and taskbar pinned apps
For apps pinned to the Start menu or taskbar, Windows 10 applies the icon embedded in the app’s executable. To use a different icon, create a custom shortcut and then pin that shortcut instead.
- Create a new shortcut with the target path of the app’s executable.
- Change the shortcut icon as described above.
- Right‑click the customized shortcut and choose Pin to Start or Pin to taskbar.
Changing icons for Store apps
Microsoft Store apps use system‑assigned icons that are not directly editable in Settings. To customize a Store app’s appearance, create a shortcut with a different icon and place it on your Start menu or taskbar.
- Open Start, right‑click the Store app, and choose Open file location.
- Right‑click the created shortcut, select Properties, then click Change Icon.
- Choose or browse to a new icon, save the shortcut, and pin it to your Start or taskbar.
Using Third‑Party Tools and Icon Packs
Popular tools for bulk and advanced icon changes
Third‑party utilities can simplify applying icons to many shortcuts, extracting icons from executables, and managing icon caches. These tools are optional but helpful when you want consistent theming across many apps.
- IconPackager: Applies prebuilt icon packages system‑wide.
- Rainmeter: Supports custom skins, including icon replacements via widgets.
- 7‑Star Taskbar and Open-Shell: Offer enhanced Start menu customization and icon assignment options.
Manual Workflows: Extracting and Assigning Icons
Extracting icons from executables
Windows does not include a built‑in icon extractor, but you can use command‑line utilities or free tools to pull icons from .exe and .dll files. The extracted icons can then be saved as .ico files and assigned to shortcuts.
| Tool or Method | Purpose | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Resource Hacker | Extract and save embedded icons | Getting source icons from apps |
| IcoFX, IrfanView | Convert and edit icon images | Creating or modifying .ico files |
| Command line (PowerShell) | Extract icon indices programmatically | Automated workflows |
Troubleshooting and Best Practices
Ensuring icons persist and display correctly
After changing icons, restart Explorer or sign out and sign back in if the changes do not appear immediately. System or Store app updates may overwrite embedded icons, in which case you need to reapply the custom shortcut.
- Always back up original shortcuts before editing.
- Use .ico files for reliable compatibility across resolutions.
- Clear the icon cache only if icons appear corrupted; this requires restarting Explorer.
- Prefer third‑party tools that support rollback to avoid permanent changes.
Summary
You can change app icons on Windows 10 by editing shortcut properties, creating custom shortcuts for Start/taskbar apps, and using third‑party tools for bulk theming. The built‑in Change Icon workflow is reliable for desktop shortcuts, while Store apps require indirect approaches via custom shortcuts. For best results, use .ico files, back up originals, and understand how shortcuts reference icons so your changes remain stable after updates and restarts.