How to Change the Default System Font on Windows 11

By default, Windows 11 sticks with the Segoe UI font for most of its interface. It’s clean, but maybe it’s not your style. Whether you’re after a more personalized look or just want to freshen up your desktop, changing the system font is possible—with a few caveats.

Here’s how to do it the right way.

⚠️ A Quick Warning First

This process involves editing the Windows Registry. Mistakes here can mess with your system. Back up your registry and your system before making any changes. Proceed only if you’re comfortable with that.

Step 1: Choose Your Font

Windows supports most system fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, Verdana, and others. Make sure the font you want is installed on your system.

To view installed fonts:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Personalization > Fonts.

Jot down the exact name of the font you want to use (capitalization matters).

Step 2: Create the Registry Script

You’ll need to create a .reg file to update the font settings. Here’s how:

1. Open Notepad.
2. Copy and paste the code below, replacing NEW-FONT-NAME with your chosen font:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Fonts]
"Segoe UI (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Bold (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Bold Italic (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Italic (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Light (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Semibold (TrueType)"=""
"Segoe UI Symbol (TrueType)"=""

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\FontSubstitutes]
"Segoe UI"="NEW-FONT-NAME"

3. Save the file as change-font.reg (use All Files as file type).

Step 3: Apply the Change

1. Double-click the .reg file.
2. Allow the changes when prompted.
3. Restart your PC.

You should now see your chosen font applied across menus, dialogs, and system UI elements.

Step 4: Revert If You Change Your Mind

If something looks off or you want to go back to the default font, create a new .reg file with this code:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\FontSubstitutes]
"Segoe UI"="Segoe UI"

Save, run it, and reboot your system to restore the original font.

Want to Change the Font on Windows 10?

If you’re still using Windows 10 or want to help someone who is, check out our guide here:
👉 How to Change the Default System Font on Windows 10

Final Thoughts

Customizing your system font can make your desktop feel more personal, but it’s not something Microsoft officially supports in Windows 11. That means updates could undo your changes or cause compatibility issues in the future. If that happens, just reapply the registry tweak or revert back to default.

Got questions or need help choosing a font that looks great? Drop a comment below.