Introduction
Windows 11 is getting a long-overdue update to the classic Run menu. Microsoft is rolling out a redesigned version to Windows Insiders in the Experimental Channel, featuring a modern interface, native dark mode support, and a smarter way to navigate your user folder. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from joining the Insider program to using the new ~\ command—so you can start testing these changes today. Whether you're a power user or just curious, follow these steps to unlock the refreshed Run experience.
What You Need
- A computer running Windows 11 (any version, but ideally an upgrade-ready build)
- A Microsoft account to enroll in the Windows Insider Program
- Stable internet connection for downloading preview builds
- At least 10 GB of free storage space (for the Insider build)
- Basic knowledge of Windows settings (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Join the Windows Insider Program
To get the new Run menu, you must be part of the Windows Insider Program. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Click Get started and link your Microsoft account. Choose the Experimental Channel (also known as the Dev Channel in some builds) to access the earliest features. Confirm the prompts and restart your PC if needed.
Step 2: Switch to the Experimental Channel
After joining, ensure you're on the Experimental Channel. In the same Windows Insider Program settings, click Choose your Insider settings and select Experimental Channel (or Dev Channel if listed separately). This channel receives builds that may include unannounced features like the redesigned Run menu. Note that this channel can be less stable.
Step 3: Install the Latest Insider Build
Once enrolled, go back to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Download and install the latest available build. This may take 30 minutes to an hour depending on your connection and system. After installation, your PC will restart and apply the build.
Step 4: Open the Revamped Run Dialog
Press Win + R on your keyboard. You should see the new interface: a cleaner, more modern version with rounded corners and, if you have dark mode enabled system-wide, a dark background. The Browse button—which previously opened a file picker—is gone, reflecting Microsoft's data that few users used it. Instead, you now see only the text field and an OK button.
Step 5: Use the New ~\ Command
To navigate to your user directory quickly, type ~\ (tilde followed by backslash) and press Enter. This replaces the old Browse functionality. It immediately opens File Explorer at your user folder (e.g., C:\Users\YourName). This is the primary way to access your personal files from Run now.
Step 6: Explore Dark Mode Integration
The redesigned Run menu respects your system's theme. To test dark mode, go to Settings > Personalization > Colors and choose Dark under Choose your mode. Then press Win + R again to see the menu with a black background and white text. The new UI is built using code from the Command Palette utility in PowerToys, ensuring consistency with other advanced tools.
Step 7: Verify Other Features
The new Run menu is reportedly faster and more responsive. Try typing common commands like cmd, notepad, or %appdata% to confirm they still work. Microsoft plans to add more commands in future updates. For now, the only change is the removal of Browse and addition of the ~\ shortcut.
Tips for Using the New Run Menu
- Remember the
~\command: It's your new best friend for accessing user files. You can also append paths like~\Desktopto go directly to the desktop. - Keyboard shortcuts still apply: Use Win + R to open it, Tab to reach the OK button, and Enter to execute.
- Dark mode toggle: If you switch themes frequently, know that Run immediately reflects your choice without a restart.
- Report feedback: As an Insider, use the Feedback Hub to tell Microsoft about your experience. This helps shape the final release.
- Expect changes: The Experimental Channel evolves rapidly. The final version may differ from this preview.
- Revert if needed: If you encounter instability, you can roll back to a stable build via Settings > Windows Update > Recovery > Go back (only within 10 days of the upgrade).
By following these steps, you'll be among the first to test the improved Windows 11 Run menu. Enjoy the faster, darker, and more efficient way to launch commands and access files!