The built-in way
You can use Windows’ Transparency effects setting under Personalization. This is an easy and reliable way to make the taskbar partly see-through without using extra software. As you can see, this built-in option only adds a slight degree of transparency which is unfortunate since a lot of users are left looking for a full transparency effect. Depending on the image that you’re using as a background, the difference might not even be noticeable.
If you’re looking for a way to make your taskbar transparent or translucent, you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s a number of third-party tools and registry hacks that will help you achieve this effect. Sure, every method involves a certain degree of tweaking, but it’s nothing too technical.
1. Enhance the taskbar transparency with a registry hack
You can make the taskbar more see-through by changing the Windows registry. This method lets you make the taskbar clearer than the usual setting, giving it a glass-like look. Note: be careful because wrong changes to the registry can cause system problems.
If you want even more transparency, move down to Method 2 or Method 3.
2. Make the taskbar fully transparent using TranslucentTB
TranslucentTB is an external tool that gives you full control over how see-through the Windows taskbar is, more than the normal settings allow. It lets you make the taskbar completely clear for a cleaner look. This small app runs in the background and lets you adjust the taskbar’s transparency in real time. If you’re looking for a different option to make your taskbar transparent or translucent, move down to Method 3.
3. Make the taskbar fully transparent with TaskbarTools
Unlike Windows’ default settings, TaskbarTools lets you directly control how see-through the taskbar is, even making it fully clear. This app adds transparency properties to the taskbar, overcoming some limits of Windows’ built-in options.
