Method 3: Restore the Classic App via Third-Party Installers
Did this guide help you install classic Paint on Windows 10? Share this article with a friend who misses the XP-era simplicity.
If you want a seamless setup that automatically fixes your registry keys, restores the classic icons, and configures file associations, using a dedicated restoration package is the easiest route. Reliable tech communities host clean wrappers that package the original Windows 7-era Paint specifically for Windows 10. Follow these steps to use an installer package:
Once you have successfully restored the classic Paint, you will regain access to these core features: For freehand drawing. Brush: Variety of classic brush styles.
Krita is a professional open‑source painting program designed primarily for digital artists. If you need advanced brush engines and drawing tools, Krita is an excellent alternative. It is heavier than Classic Paint but offers far more creative capabilities.
Inside the Settings folder, create a new named DisableModernPaintBootstrap and set its value to 1 . Setting Classic Paint as Your Default
Once the installation finishes, you can launch the app by opening the Start Menu, typing "paint," and hitting Enter.
If Paint is missing from your Start menu, it may have been disabled as an "Optional Feature." (Win + I) and navigate to Optional features Add a feature Type "Microsoft Paint" in the search bar. Select it and click
GIMP is a powerful, open‑source image editor often compared to Adobe Photoshop. While it is much more feature‑rich than Classic Paint, it can be overwhelming for beginners. However, for users who want professional‑grade editing tools for free, GIMP is an outstanding choice.
Microsoft replaced the classic Paint with Paint 3D in Windows 10. Many users prefer the original for its simplicity and speed. You can easily bring back the classic version using a few different methods. Why Bring Back Classic Paint?
Double-click your local mspaint.exe file to run the original application without changing any core system files. How to Set Classic Paint as Your Default Editor
Run the installer file (usually named ClassicPaintSetup.exe ).
