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Install Classic Paint Windows 10 ^new^ [ Tested & Working ]

Title: Bring Back the Classics: How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10

Introduction: Windows 10 has come a long way since its release, with numerous updates and new features added to enhance the user experience. However, some users may miss the classic Paint application that was a staple in previous versions of Windows. If you're one of them, you'll be pleased to know that you can still install Classic Paint on Windows 10. In this article, we'll guide you through the process.

Why Install Classic Paint on Windows 10? The classic Paint application, also known as Microsoft Paint, has been a part of Windows since its early days. It was a simple yet effective tool for basic image editing and creation. Although Windows 10 comes with a modernized Paint app, some users prefer the simplicity and familiarity of the classic version.

Methods to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10:

Troubleshooting

  • If mspaint.exe missing or blocked: run System File Checker — open PowerShell as admin and run:
sfc /scannow
  • If Store app won't install: run Windows Store Apps troubleshooter (Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot).

If you want step-by-step screenshots or a recommendation for a specific third-party classic Paint fork, tell me which you prefer.

How to Install and Use Classic MS Paint on Windows 10

With the release of the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, Microsoft began phasing out the classic Win32 version of Paint in favor of the modern "Paint 3D." While the classic version was eventually hidden, it remains buried within the system files. If you prefer the lightweight, no-frills interface of the original Paint, you can restore it without downloading third-party software.

How to Remove Paint 3D Completely

If you want a perfectly clean system with only Classic Paint, you can uninstall Paint 3D.

Via Settings:

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  2. Search for "Paint 3D."
  3. Click it and select Uninstall.

Via PowerShell (as Admin):

Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MSPaint* | Remove-AppxPackage

Wait—careful! The command above removes the new Paint 3D. To remove Paint 3D specifically, use:

Get-AppxPackage *Paint3D* | Remove-AppxPackage

📦 Method 3: Use Portable Classic Paint (safest, no system files mod)

If you don't want to touch System32:

  1. Download Portable MSpaint (repack of original Windows 7 Paint)
  2. Extract to any folder, e.g., C:\PortablePaint
  3. Run mspaint.exe from there

✅ No admin rights needed. Works on all Windows 10 versions.
🔗 Look for: “classic paint portable win7” on major portable app sites (MajorGeeks, PortableApps.com).

How to Uninstall Paint 3D (Optional)

If you have successfully restored Classic Paint and want to remove the modern Paint 3D to avoid confusion:

  1. Open the Start Menu.
  2. Find Paint 3D in your app list.
  3. Right-click the app icon.
  4. Select Uninstall.

🔁 Revert changes

  • To uninstall manually: delete the added mspaint.exe files.
  • To re-enable modern Paint: Add-AppxPackage -Register "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.Paint_*x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe\AppxManifest.xml"

Would you like the direct file links or a script to automate the portable setup?

How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10: Bring Back the Simple Tool You Love

Microsoft tried to replace the iconic Microsoft Paint with Paint 3D, but for many of us, the original remains the king of quick crops and simple doodles. If your PC is missing the classic version or it keeps redirecting you to the 3D app, here is how to get it back. Option 1: Reinstall via Windows Optional Features

In most modern versions of Windows 10, Classic Paint is an "Optional Feature" that can be toggled on or off. Open Settings and go to Apps. Click on Optional features. Click Add a feature and type "Paint" into the search bar.

Select Microsoft Paint, click Install, and restart your computer. Option 2: Use the Microsoft Store

Microsoft officially lists the classic Paint app as a standalone download for those who may have uninstalled it.

Visit the official Microsoft Store Paint Page and click Get or Install. Option 3: Disable the "Paint 3D" Redirect (Registry Fix)

If you have the old mspaint.exe but it keeps opening Paint 3D instead, you can use a registry tweak to stop the redirect. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings.

Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it DisableModernPaintBootstrap.

Double-click it and set the Value data to 1. Restart your PC. Option 4: Third-Party "Classic Paint" Installers

If your system files are missing entirely, community sites like Win7Games provide a "Classic Paint" installer that brings back the exact Windows 7/10 interface without any of the modern bloat. install classic paint windows 10

How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10

Windows 10 has been a phenomenal operating system since its release, with a plethora of features and improvements that make it a joy to use. However, one of the most significant changes that Microsoft made was replacing the classic Paint application with the new Universal Windows Platform (UWP) Paint app. While the new Paint app is modern and feature-rich, many users still yearn for the simplicity and familiarity of the classic Paint application.

The classic Paint application, also known as "mspaint," has been a staple of Windows since its inception. It was a basic yet powerful image editing tool that allowed users to create and edit simple graphics, photos, and other images. Although it may seem rudimentary compared to modern image editing software, classic Paint has a certain charm and ease of use that many users miss.

Fortunately, there are ways to install classic Paint on Windows 10, and in this article, we'll explore a few methods to get this vintage application up and running on your modern operating system.

Method 1: Using the Windows Features Dialog

One of the easiest ways to install classic Paint on Windows 10 is by using the Windows Features dialog. This method involves enabling the "Legacy Windows Features" option, which includes the classic Paint application.

  1. Open the Windows Features dialog: Press the Windows key + S to open the Search bar, type "Turn Windows features on or off," and select the result.
  2. Scroll down and check the box: In the Windows Features dialog, scroll down and check the box next to "Legacy Windows Features."
  3. Expand the Legacy Windows Features: Click on the "+" icon next to "Legacy Windows Features" and check the box next to "Paint."
  4. Click OK: Click "OK" to save the changes.
  5. Wait for the installation to complete: Windows will now install the classic Paint application. You can monitor the progress in the Windows Features dialog.

Method 2: Using the Microsoft Store

Another way to install classic Paint on Windows 10 is by using the Microsoft Store. This method involves downloading and installing the "Windows 7" version of Paint from the Microsoft Store.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store: Press the Windows key + S to open the Search bar, type "Microsoft Store," and select the result.
  2. Search for Windows 7 Paint: In the Microsoft Store, search for "Windows 7 Paint" and select the result.
  3. Download and install: Click the "Get" button to download and install the Windows 7 Paint application.

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Source

If the above methods do not work for you, you can try downloading the classic Paint application from a third-party source. However, be cautious when using third-party sources, as they may bundle malware or other unwanted software.

  1. Download the classic Paint executable: Search for "classic Paint Windows 10" or "mspaint Windows 10" on a reputable download site, such as Softonic or CNET.
  2. Extract the files: Extract the downloaded files to a folder on your computer.
  3. Run the executable: Run the extracted executable file to install classic Paint.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while trying to install classic Paint on Windows 10, here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Ensure you're running a 64-bit version of Windows 10: Classic Paint may not work on 32-bit versions of Windows 10.
  • Disable any antivirus software: Temporarily disable any antivirus software that may be interfering with the installation process.
  • Run the installation as an administrator: Right-click on the installation file and select "Run as administrator" to ensure the installation has the necessary permissions.

Classic Paint vs. Modern Paint: Which One to Use?

Now that you've installed classic Paint on your Windows 10 machine, you may wonder which Paint application to use. Here are some points to consider:

  • Classic Paint: If you're looking for a simple, lightweight image editing tool with a familiar interface, classic Paint may be the better choice.
  • Modern Paint: If you want a more feature-rich image editing experience with modern tools and effects, the modern Paint app may be the better choice.

Conclusion

Installing classic Paint on Windows 10 may require a few extra steps, but it's definitely possible. Whether you're a nostalgic user who misses the old Paint application or simply prefers its simplicity, classic Paint can still be a valuable addition to your Windows 10 toolkit.

While Microsoft has discontinued support for classic Paint, it still works on Windows 10, and you can use it alongside the modern Paint app. If you encounter any issues during the installation process, refer to the troubleshooting tips provided above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I install classic Paint on Windows 11? A: Unfortunately, classic Paint may not work on Windows 11, as it's designed for Windows 10.

Q: Is classic Paint still supported by Microsoft? A: No, classic Paint is no longer supported by Microsoft, but it still works on Windows 10.

Q: Can I use classic Paint as my default image editor? A: Yes, you can set classic Paint as your default image editor on Windows 10.

Q: Are there any alternatives to classic Paint? A: Yes, there are several alternatives to classic Paint, including the modern Paint app, GIMP, and Paint.NET.

By following the methods outlined in this article, you should be able to install classic Paint on your Windows 10 machine and enjoy the simplicity and familiarity of this vintage image editing tool.

While Microsoft has shifted focus toward modern apps like Paint 3D and the updated, layer-supported version of Paint, many users still prefer the lightweight, no-nonsense experience of the original software. If you find the classic app missing from your system, here are the most effective ways to restore it. Method 1: Using Windows Optional Features (Official) Title: Bring Back the Classics: How to Install

The safest and most straightforward way to get classic Paint back is through the built-in Windows Settings. Since build 18980, Microsoft has categorized Paint as an "Optional Feature".

Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to Apps > Apps & Features. Click on the Optional features link. Select Add a feature and type "Paint" into the search bar.

Select Microsoft Paint, click Install, and restart your computer if prompted. Method 2: Reinstall via the Microsoft Store

Microsoft now hosts the standard version of Paint as a standalone app in the store, which is the officially supported method for restoration. Open the Microsoft Store via your Start menu. Search for "Paint" in the top search bar. Click Install or Get to begin the download.

Once finished, you can find it by searching for "Paint" in your Start menu. Method 3: Registry Tweak for "Modern Paint" (Advanced)

If the modern interface is forced upon you and you want the older UI back, you can use a registry edit to disable the "modern bootstrap" that launches the new version. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings.

If the folder doesn't exist, right-click and create a new Key named "Settings".

Inside the Settings folder, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named DisableModernPaintBootstrap and set its value to 1. Setting Classic Paint as Your Default

To ensure all your images open with the classic version automatically: Right-click any image file (like a .jpg or .png). Select Open with > Choose another app.

Select Paint and check the box for "Always use this app to open .jpg files".

For users who still cannot find the app, Microsoft offers an official Paint/Snipping Tool installer directly on their support site.

Are you looking to restore any other legacy Windows tools, like the classic Calculator or Windows Photo Viewer?

To restore the classic Microsoft Paint (the version from Windows 7 and early Windows 10) on your current Windows 10 PC, you can use built-in system settings or a third-party installer if the original files have been removed Option 1: Reinstall via Windows Optional Features

If Paint is missing from your Start menu, it may have been uninstalled as a feature. Windows 10 Forums (Win + I) and go to Optional features Add a feature Microsoft Paint into the search bar. Select it and click your PC to finalize the restoration. Option 2: Using Command Prompt (Admin)

For a quick fix, you can use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Microsoft Learn Right-click the button and select Command Prompt (Admin) Windows PowerShell (Admin) Type or paste the following command and press Enter:

dism /Online /add-Capability /CapabilityName:Microsoft.Windows.MSPaint~~~~0.0.1.0 Microsoft Learn Option 3: Download "Classic Paint" (Third-Party)

If you prefer the exact Windows 7 interface without the "Paint 3D" or "Modern" prompts, you can download a standalone version. Trusted community sites like provide the original packaged as an installer.

These versions often allow you to run the classic app alongside the newer version. WordPress.com Managing Defaults & Conflicts Disable the Modern Wrapper: If launching mspaint.exe

only opens the new version, you may need to disable "App execution aliases" in Apps & features App execution aliases . Toggle the switch to mspaint.exe Set as Default: Right-click an image file, select Choose another app , select your "Classic Paint," and check the box for Always use this app WordPress.com

Bring Back the Classic: How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10

Are you tired of the modern, streamlined look of Windows 10's Paint app? Do you yearn for the good old days of Windows 7 and XP, when Paint was a simple, yet powerful tool for basic image editing? Look no further! In this post, we'll show you how to install the classic Paint app on Windows 10.

Why Classic Paint?

The classic Paint app, also known as "mspaint," has been a staple of Windows since version 1.0. Its simplicity and ease of use made it a favorite among users for quick edits and creations. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft replaced the classic Paint app with a modern, Universal Windows Platform (UWP) version. If mspaint

While the new Paint app is more feature-rich and visually appealing, some users miss the nostalgic feel and straightforward interface of the classic version. If you're one of them, you're in luck!

Method 1: Using the Windows Registry

To install classic Paint on Windows 10, you can use a simple registry tweak. Here's how:

  1. Open the Registry Editor: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the correct key: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AppCompatFlags\CompatibilityAssistant Persisted and create a new key called Flags.
  3. Create a new DWORD value: Inside the Flags key, create a new DWORD (32-bit) value called Disable WindowsStoreApp and set it to 1.
  4. Restart your computer: Save your changes and restart your PC.

Method 2: Using PowerShell

Alternatively, you can use PowerShell to install classic Paint on Windows 10:

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator: Right-click on the Start button and select "Windows PowerShell (Admin)".
  2. Run the command: Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_OperatingSystem | ForEach-Object  $_.InstallDate = $_.InstallDate.ToString("yyyy-MM-dd") ; Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Where-Object  $_.Name -eq "Microsoft Paint"  | ForEach-Object  $_.Install(); $_.Uninstall()

Download Classic Paint

If the above methods don't work for you, you can download a pre-compiled version of classic Paint from a trusted source, such as GitHub. However, be cautious when downloading software from third-party websites, and make sure to scan the file for viruses.

Tips and Variations

  • If you want to use classic Paint as the default image editor, right-click on an image file, select "Open with," and choose "Choose another app." Then, select classic Paint from the list.
  • To make classic Paint look more modern, you can use the " Windows Classic" theme in Windows 10.

Conclusion

And that's it! You should now have classic Paint up and running on your Windows 10 machine. Whether you're a nostalgic user or simply prefer the simplicity of the classic app, this guide has helped you bring back the classic Paint experience.

Do you have a favorite feature in classic Paint? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Like and Share

If you found this post helpful, don't forget to like and share it with your friends and family who might appreciate a blast from the past.

Stay Tuned

For more Windows 10 tips, tricks, and guides, stay tuned to our blog!

Here is the story of how you can reclaim the classic Microsoft Paint experience on your Windows 10 machine. The Search for Simplicity

The journey begins with the realization that the familiar, "classic" version of Microsoft Paint (the lightweight tool we’ve used for over 30 years) often feels hidden or replaced by newer versions like Paint 3D or the modern, updated Paint app. For those who prefer the original's no-frills interface, there are several paths to restoration. Path 1: The Standard Reinstall (Optional Features)

The most official way to ensure the classic application is on your system is through Windows' own settings: Open Settings Windows key + I or search for "Settings" in the Start menu. Navigate to Apps Optional features Add the Feature Add a feature , search for Microsoft Paint , select it, and click

: Once installed, you can find it by searching for "Paint" in the Start menu. Path 2: The Registry "Trick" (For the Bold)

If launching Paint keeps opening the "modern" version instead of the classic one, you can use a registry modification to force the old behavior: Open Registry Editor , and run as administrator. Find the Key : Navigate to:

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings Create the Value

: If the "Settings" folder isn't there, right-click "Paint" and create a new Disable the Bootstrap : Inside "Settings," create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value DisableModernPaintBootstrap and set its value to

: Close the editor and restart your PC to see the change take effect. Path 3: The Dedicated Classic Installer

For users who want a version that looks and feels exactly like the Windows 7 era, third-party enthusiasts provide a standalone "Classic Paint" installer: How to Install the Classic MS Paint App in Windows

Method 1: The Hidden "Turn Windows Features On or Off" (Easiest)

In newer versions of Windows 10, Microsoft moved the classic Paint executable into an optional system feature.

  1. Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type optionalfeatures and press Enter.
  3. The "Windows Features" window will appear. Scroll through the list and look for "Paint" (sometimes listed under "Windows Accessories" or simply as "Microsoft Paint").
  4. Check the box next to Paint.
  5. Click OK. Windows will search for the required files and apply the changes.
  6. Once finished, restart your computer.
  7. Search for "Paint" in the Start Menu; the classic icon (the palette with the brush) should appear alongside Paint 3D.
install classic paint windows 10