File Explorer in Windows 11 introduces new spacing and layout options that may not match everyone’s preferences, especially for users who want a denser file list or need to quickly access file details. Compact View minimizes the space between items, making it easier to scan large directories, while the Details Pane provides instant access to metadata and previews for selected files. Activating these features optimizes navigation speed and streamlines file management, particularly on devices with limited screen real estate or for users accustomed to previous Windows versions.

Enable Compact View in File Explorer

Step 1: Open File Explorer by pressing Win+E or selecting the folder icon from the taskbar. This launches the main file navigation window, where you can view drives, folders, and files.

Step 2: Click the View option in the command bar at the top of the File Explorer window. This menu provides access to various layout and display settings.

Step 3: In the dropdown menu, locate and select Compact view. Enabling this option immediately reduces the vertical spacing between files and folders in the main pane, allowing more items to fit on the screen without scrolling. If the changes do not appear instantly, restart File Explorer or your computer to apply the new layout.

Compact View is especially useful for users who want to minimize scrolling and maximize the number of visible files, improving efficiency in file management tasks.

Enable Compact View Using Folder Options

Step 1: Press Win+R to open the Run dialog box. Type control folders and press Enter. This command opens the Folder Options window, which controls various File Explorer behaviors.

Step 2: In the Folder Options window, switch to the View tab. Look for the checkbox labeled Decrease space between items (compact view). Check this box to activate Compact View, then click Apply followed by OK to save your settings.

This method is helpful if the Compact View toggle is missing from the File Explorer command bar or if you prefer to adjust settings through the classic control panels.

Enable Compact View via Registry Editor

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor by pressing Win+S, typing regedit, and selecting Run as administrator. Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control. The Registry Editor provides access to advanced system settings.

Step 2: Navigate to the following path in the Registry Editor:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

Step 3: Locate and double-click the UseCompactMode entry in the right pane. Change the Value data to 1 to enable Compact View, or 0 to disable it.

Step 4: Click OK and close the Registry Editor. Restart File Explorer or your computer for the changes to take effect.

Note: Editing the registry allows for precise control but should be done cautiously. Always back up your registry before making changes, as incorrect edits can cause system instability.

Show Details Pane in File Explorer

Displaying the Details Pane in File Explorer gives you quick access to information about the selected file or folder, including size, type, date modified, and, for certain file types, a preview. This feature is valuable for users who need to review file metadata or content without opening each file individually.

Show Details Pane Using Keyboard Shortcut

Step 1: Open File Explorer with Win+E.

Step 2: Press Alt+Shift+P to toggle the Details Pane. This instantly shows or hides the pane on the right side of the File Explorer window.

Show Details Pane from the Command Bar

Step 1: In File Explorer, look for the Details icon on the right side of the command bar. Clicking this icon displays the Details Pane, providing metadata and a preview for the currently selected item.

Show Details Pane from the View Menu

Step 1: Click the View option in the command bar at the top of File Explorer.

Step 2: In the dropdown, select Show and then choose Details pane. The pane will appear on the right, updating automatically as you select different files or folders.

Show Details Pane Using Registry Editor

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor by pressing Win+R, typing regedit, and clicking OK.

Step 2: Navigate to:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Modules\GlobalSettings\DetailsContainer

Adjust the binary value for the Details Pane as needed. This method is generally reserved for advanced users who require persistent customization or need to script the settings across multiple devices.

Activating Compact View and the Details Pane in File Explorer on Windows 11 streamlines navigation and makes file management faster, especially for users handling large numbers of files or working on smaller screens.