Tweak UI was one of our main resources to optimize and modify the behavior of older Windows editions. The first version of Tweak UI dates back to the launch of Windows 95, but official support never went beyond XP. Fortunately, the developer "builtbybel", whom we know from ThisIsWin11, decided to create a modern clone of the classic Tweak UI called Tweak UIX, now compatible for optimizing Windows 10 and Windows 11.
One of the most frustrating aspects of Microsoft is that when its developers decide to create advanced optimization and administration tools, they end up doing a pretty good job. From Autoruns to Process Explorer, through the Contig defragmenter and the classic PowerToys, these resources have helped us intervene on Windows more deeply, obtaining better stability and performance in the process.
Another tool that deserves to be on that list is Tweak UI. This original creation by Raymond Chen started its adventure as a control panel applet in Windows 95. Unfortunately, Windows XP was the last edition with access to a compatible build of Tweak UI, but if you are interested in using a modern clone (not to say “spiritual heir”), you can download a copy of the brand new Tweak UIX, made by “builtbybel”, the same developer of ThisIsWin11.
How to optimize Windows with Tweak UIX
The options of Tweak UIX are divided into a total of eleven categories. "Explorer" allows us to use the Windows 10 file explorer, show hidden files and extensions. "Taskbar and Start menu" point to the taskbar and the start menu, changing their alignment in Windows 11, activating small icons (when possible), or hiding various icons, such as the search button and Microsoft Teams.
"Desktop" lets us activate dark mode and uninstall widgets. "My Computer" deletes elements like fax support, XPS Documents Writer and the watermark in Windows 11 for unsupported systems (this recently appeared in the Insider builds). "Paranoia" runs drive cleanup and blocks telemetry with a HOSTS list, and "Windows Update" helps us search for updates or delete corrupted hotfixes.
"Gaming" disables PowerThrottling mode for laptops, DVR function and interface effects. "Privacy" attacks everything that is telemetry and tracking, and "Apps permissions" is an equivalent to the Privacy section in Windows settings.
In essence, all you have to do is mark each option you want to change or apply, and press the Check button. Tweak UIX will automatically verify if the tweak is applicable or not, and if not, it will remove the checkmark. The last step is to press Apply and restart the computer to activate the changes. If you have doubts, it's never a bad idea to create a restore point before playing with Tweak UIX, but it has responded very well during our tests. Download a copy!.
Official site and download: Click here
