How to Change 24 Hour to 12 Hours in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

Changing 24-hour to 12-hour format in Windows 11 is a simple process that can make reading time on your device easier, especially if you’re used to the 12-hour format. This quick tutorial will guide you through the steps to change the time format in less than five minutes.

How to Change 24 Hour to 12 Hour in Windows 11

In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to change your Windows 11 system from a 24-hour clock to a 12-hour clock. This process is straightforward and involves tweaking some settings in the Control Panel and the Date & Time settings.

Step 1: Open the Control Panel

First, you need to access the Control Panel.

To do this, click on the Start menu and type "Control Panel" in the search bar, then hit Enter. This will open the Control Panel window, where you can adjust various system settings.

Step 2: Go to Clock and Region

Find and click on the "Clock and Region" option.

This section allows you to change the way your system displays time, date, and regional formats. It’s the hub for all things time-related on your computer.

Step 3: Select Region

Click on "Region" to open the Region settings.

In the Region settings, you will see tabs for Formats and Location. Make sure you are on the Formats tab, as this is where you will make the necessary changes.

Step 4: Customize Formats

Click on "Additional settings…" under the Formats tab.

This opens a new window where you can customize various settings, including the time format.

Step 5: Change the Time Format

In the "Time" tab, you’ll see options for short time and long time.

Change the "Short time" and "Long time" formats to include "h:mm tt" (e.g., 1:45 PM) instead of using the 24-hour format (e.g., 13:45). This will switch your system to a 12-hour clock.

Step 6: Apply and Save

After making your changes, click "Apply" and then "OK" to save them.

These changes will take effect immediately, and you’ll notice your system clock now displays time in the 12-hour format.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 clock will display the time in the 12-hour format instead of the 24-hour format. This change will apply across all system displays, including the taskbar clock, calendar, and any other time display interfaces.

Tips for Changing 24 Hour to 12 Hour in Windows 11

  • Double-check your settings: Ensure you’ve selected the correct time format before applying changes.
  • Learn the format codes: Familiarize yourself with the time format codes like "h:mm tt" for 12-hour and "HH:mm" for 24-hour.
  • Reboot if necessary: If changes don’t appear immediately, reboot your system.
  • Customize further: Explore other format options in the "Additional settings" for a more personalized experience.
  • Back up settings: Always back up your settings before making changes, just in case you need to revert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch back to the 24-hour format?

Yes, you can switch back anytime by following the same steps and choosing the 24-hour format code (e.g., "HH:mm").

Will this change affect all apps?

Most apps should follow the system time format, but some may have their own settings that need to be adjusted separately.

Do I need to be an admin to change the time format?

No, you don’t need admin rights to change the time format on your device.

Can I have different formats for different accounts?

Yes, the time format setting is user-specific, so you can have different formats for different user accounts on the same device.

What if the changes don’t take effect?

If the changes don’t take effect, try rebooting your computer or reapplying the settings.

Summary

  1. Open the Control Panel.
  2. Go to Clock and Region.
  3. Select Region.
  4. Customize Formats.
  5. Change the Time Format.
  6. Apply and Save.

Conclusion

Changing from a 24-hour to a 12-hour time format in Windows 11 is a quick and easy process that can make your time display more user-friendly. By following the steps outlined above, you can customize your system to better match your preferences. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, setting your preferred time format can help you keep track of your day more efficiently. If you ever need to switch back, you now know exactly how to do it.

If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other customization options in Windows 11 to make your experience even better. Happy computing!