# Why Windows 11 Feels Better Than Before (Even for macOS Users)

**URL:** <https://onehack.st/t/why-windows-11-feels-better-than-before-even-for-macos-users/306330>\
**Category:** Tutorials & Methods\
**Tags:** tools, operating-system, windows\
**Created:** [June 9, 2025, 11:55pm UTC](https://onehack.st/t/why-windows-11-feels-better-than-before-even-for-macos-users/306330 "2025-06-09T23:55:09Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![SRZ](https://onehack.st/user_avatar/onehack.st/srz/32/146132_2.png) [@SRZ](https://onehack.st/u/SRZ)\
**Post date:** [June 9, 2025, 11:55pm UTC](https://onehack.st/t/why-windows-11-feels-better-than-before-even-for-macos-users/306330/1 "2025-06-09T23:55:09Z")

</div>

### Short Introduction

Many users returning to Windows 11 after years on macOS have been surprised by how smooth and usable it’s become. Thanks to fewer pre-installed apps, better customization options, and tools like PowerToys, Winget, and Winhotkey, Windows 11 can now be a refined, productive experience—especially after a few key tweaks.

### Simplified One-Line Flowchart

Fresh Install ➔ Debloat & Tweak ➔ Smooth Productivity Experience

### Easy Step-by-Step Method

**Step 1: Perform a Clean Windows 11 Install**

- Use a custom `autounattend.xml` to automate setup and avoid Microsoft account enforcement.
- Tool: [https://schneegans.de/windows/unattend-generator/](https://schneegans.de/windows/unattend-generator/)

**Step 2: Debloat the System**

- Remove unwanted apps like OneDrive and Xbox that come preinstalled.
- Tools suggested: `Winhanced`, registry hacks, or community debloat scripts.

**Step 3: Add Essential Power Tools**

- Install via Winget or Scoop:
  - [PowerToys](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/powertoys/) (for window snapping, file renaming, etc.)
  - [Everything Search](https://www.voidtools.com/) (for lightning-fast file search)
  - [UltraSearch](https://www.jam-software.com/ultrasearch) (alternative Spotlight-like search)
  - [Clipdiary](https://clipdiary.com/) (clipboard manager)
  - [Windhawk](https://windhawk.net/) (custom behavior mods for Windows UI)

**Step 4: Customize UI & Behavior**

- Fix intrusive features like the “Learn more about this photo” desktop icon using registry edits.
- Change the Windows theme to disable certain telemetry-linked features.
- Use the taskbar’s built-in settings or registry edits to improve multitasking and personalization.

**Step 5: Install a Package Manager (Optional)**

- Tools like Winget, Scoop, Chocolatey, or UniGetUI let you manage software like Linux package managers.
- Scoop: [https://scoop.sh](https://scoop.sh)

**Step 6: Remove/Replace Problematic Features**

- Uninstall OneDrive completely to avoid syncing interruptions.
- Set default search apps and hide icons in the system tray using customizers or third-party apps.

### Quick Tips (Optional)

- Use `DevDrive` (Developer Mode) to get better file performance when working on code.
- Route audio from specific apps to different outputs (Mac-style) with [CheVolume](https://chevolume.com) or [EarTrumpet](https://github.com/File-New-Project/EarTrumpet) (free).
- For better menu bar control, check out taskbar customizers or hide apps via Windhawk modules.

### Important Notes

- Updates can undo tweaks: Always backup registry changes or scripts.
- ARM-based Windows laptops still have app compatibility issues compared to macOS M-series.
- Windows 11 feels faster than before, but may still slow down after long-term use without cleanup.
- Gaming and customization still lean heavily in Windows’ favor, but macOS remains ahead in polish for some UI/UX elements.