Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Windows 11 often displays time in a 24-hour format by default, which can confuse users in the U.S.
- You can easily change time format in Windows 11 from 24-hour to 12-hour (AM/PM) in just a minute.
- To switch formats, access Settings, navigate to Language & region, and then Regional format settings.
- Select the 12-hour format options for short and long time, and Windows saves the changes automatically.
- If AM/PM doesn’t show after changing, check regional settings and sign out or restart if necessary.
Ever glanced at your Windows 11 clock and thought, “Why does it say 18:30 instead of 6:30 PM?”
You’re not alone.
Many Windows 11 PCs—especially new laptops or freshly installed systems—default to the 24-hour (military) time format. While that works for some users, most people in the United States prefer the 12-hour clock with AM and PM.
The good news? You can switch from 24-hour to 12-hour time in Windows 11 in less than a minute—no tech skills needed.
How to Change Time Format in Windows 11 From 24-Hour to 12-Hour (AM/PM)
Let’s walk through it step by step.
Why Windows 11 Shows 24-Hour Time
Windows 11 uses regional format settings to decide how time is displayed.
If your region or format was set differently during setup, Windows may show time like:
- 13:00 instead of 1:00 PM
- 18:45 instead of 6:45 PM
Changing this does not affect the actual time, only how it’s displayed on:
- The taskbar clock
- Lock screen
- System apps
How to Change Time Format in Windows 11 (24-Hour to 12-Hour)
Follow these simple steps exactly as shown.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
- Press Win + I on your keyboard
- The Settings window will open
Step 2: Go to Language & Region
- Click Time & language from the left sidebar
- Select Language & region
Step 3: Open Regional Format Settings
- Scroll down and click Regional format to expand it
- Select Change formats
Step 4: Switch to 12-Hour Time (AM/PM)
Look for these options:
- Short time
- Long time
Now change them to a 12-hour format:
- Choose options that include AM/PM
- Example:
h:mm ttorhh:mm tt
Once selected, Windows saves automatically—no restart required.
See the Change Instantly on Your Taskbar
As soon as you update the format:
- Your taskbar clock will switch to AM/PM
- Lock screen and system apps will follow the same format
Example:
- Before:
19:30 - After:
7:30 PM
What If AM/PM Still Doesn’t Show?
Try these quick checks:
- Make sure Regional format is set to United States
- Sign out and sign back in once
- Restart File Explorer if needed
12-Hour vs 24-Hour Time: What Most US Users Prefer
In the United States:
- 12-hour format (AM/PM) is standard
- Used in homes, schools, offices, and public spaces
- Easier to read at a glance for most users
That’s why switching makes Windows feel more natural for daily use.
Final Thoughts
If military time feels confusing or just isn’t your style, switching to the 12-hour clock in Windows 11 is a quick win. It takes less than a minute, improves readability, and matches how most Americans tell time every day.
