SmartTaskbar review
A focused, open-source Windows utility for automatic hiding and compact taskbar sizing.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
SmartTaskbar is an open-source Windows utility for people who want more control over taskbar visibility and button size without a broad customization suite. Its Auto Mode hides the taskbar when the focused window intersects it, while a tray-icon double-click switches between the normal shown state and auto-hide. The utility also supports adaptive sizing when a maximized window exists, manual small-button sizing, high-DPI displays, and reduced taskbar display.
Its strongest fit is focused taskbar behavior rather than extensive interface personalization. Adaptive mode can reduce taskbar-button size when a maximized window is present, and the manual small-buttons control gives users a direct alternative. A separate option reduces unnecessary taskbar display, while the tray control keeps the main state switch accessible. These features make SmartTaskbar a practical choice for users who want additional screen space or a more compact Windows taskbar. Users looking for broader desktop theming or customization should choose a more comprehensive alternative.
SmartTaskbar is distributed as a free, open-source desktop application for Windows. The published privacy statement describes offline-local settings and no telemetry, and the application restores the taskbar display status when it exits. The project repository lists releases, although its current maintenance status is unclear. The Microsoft Store version is described by the project as less functional and less stable, so the open-source desktop distribution is the more suitable choice for users evaluating the utility. SmartTaskbar fits users who need automatic hiding, compact sizing, and lightweight local controls; it is less suitable for people who need multi-platform support or a wide customization platform.
SmartTaskbar pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Automatically hides the taskbar when a focused window intersects it
- Adaptive and manual small-button sizing, plus high-DPI support
- Offline-local settings, no telemetry, and taskbar-state restoration
- Where it doesn't
- Available for Windows only
- Focused on visibility and sizing rather than broad customization
- The Microsoft Store version is described as less functional and less stable
SmartTaskbar fact sheet, pricing and score →
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