Windows lets you customize how time appears on your computer. Whether you prefer the 12-hour clock (AM/PM) or the 24-hour clock, you can change the time format in just a few clicks. This guide walks you through all working methods, explains common issues, and answers frequently asked questions.

Method 1: Changing the Time Format Using Windows Settings (Recommended)

This is the easiest and most reliable method, especially for Windows 11 and updated versions of Windows 10.

Steps

Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings.

Step 2: Go to Time & Language
From the left-hand menu, click Time & Language.

Step 3: Open Language & Region
Click Language & Region to access regional formatting options.

Step 4: Expand Regional Format
Scroll down and click Regional format, then select Change formats.

Step 5: Choose Your Preferred Time Format
Under Short time and Long time, select:

• h:mm tt → 12-hour format (example: 3:45 PM)
• HH:mm → 24-hour format (example: 15:45)

Step 6: Close Settings
Your changes apply immediately—no restart needed.

Method 2: Changing the Time Format Using Control Panel

Use this method if you prefer classic Windows tools or if Settings isn’t responding.

Steps

Step 1: Open Control Panel
Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.

Step 2: Open Clock and Region
Click Clock and Region, then select Region.

Step 3: Open Additional Settings
Click Additional settings at the bottom.

Step 4: Edit Time Format
Switch to the Time tab and modify:

• Short time
• Long time

Step 5: Save Changes
Click Apply, then OK.

Method 3: Understanding 12-Hour vs 24-Hour Time Formats

Knowing the correct format codes helps you customize time exactly how you want.

Common Time Format Codes

💡 Tip: The taskbar clock automatically follows your system time format.

Method 4: Fixing Time Format Not Changing in Windows

If the clock doesn’t update after changing the format, try these fixes:

Troubleshooting Steps

• Restart your PC
• Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager
• Sign out and sign back in
• Make sure your Region matches your country
• Install pending Windows Updates

Tips and Warnings

Helpful Tips

• Use 24-hour format for work, travel, or technical accuracy
• Use 12-hour format for casual or personal use
• Changes affect most apps, including File Explorer and system notifications

Warnings

• Changing region settings may also affect date format and currency
• Some third-party apps may override system time settings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use 24-hour time in Windows 11?
Yes, Windows 11 fully supports 24-hour time formats.

Why does Windows keep switching back to AM/PM?
This usually happens due to incorrect region or language settings.

Does this change affect the taskbar clock?
Yes. The taskbar clock always follows the system time format.

Do I need to restart Windows?
No restart is required in most cases.

Windows Guide

Changing the time format in Windows is quick and customizable. Whether you want a 12-hour AM/PM clock or a 24-hour military-style clock, Windows gives you full control through Settings and Control Panel.