How to Create Custom Screensavers in Windows 11

Ah, screensavers—the nostalgic heroes of the '90s who stood watch over our computer screens while we took much-needed coffee breaks or rested our vision from excessive pixel-gazing. But let’s be honest: in this world of animated wallpapers and streamable content, screensavers have fallen somewhat out of fashion. Microsoft, in its ongoing quest for sleekness in Windows 11, hasn’t devoted much attention to updating these timeless classics. However, you can still bring a splash of personality to your PC by creating custom screensavers!
Let’s meander down memory lane and explore two simple methods for crafting your very own screensaver masterpiece. Whether you're looking to showcase your favorite family photos or your latest video edit, there's an option for you.

Method 1: Create a Custom Screensaver From Images​

The simplest and most straightforward approach to creating a custom screensaver is through a selection of photos that illuminate your screen during moments of inactivity. Not to mention, this method utilizes the built-in features of Windows—no need for third-party software. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Open the Screensaver Settings:
   • Press the Windows key, type "screensaver," and hit Enter.
2. Select the Photos Option:
   • From the list of available screensavers, click on Photos, then click on Settings.
3. Choose Your Image Folder:
   • Browse to the folder that houses the images you want to display and select it.
4. Customize Your Display:
   • Adjust the slideshow speed to tailor the transition of images, and then click Save.
5. Apply the Changes:
   • Finally, click on Apply and then OK.

Give it a minute, and voilà! Your screensaver featuring your personally curated images will come alive.

Note on Custom Screensaver Formats​

Windows screensavers are generally in the .scr format. In theory, you could convert video files into .scr files and stash them in your System32 folder, but hold your horses—none of the free video-to-scr converters are reliable, and many you find are frustratingly expensive.

Method 2: Create a Custom Screensaver Using a Third-party App​

If the idea of using videos to comprise your screensaver piques your interest, then consider using a tool like Screensaver Wonder. This freemium software allows you to craft a versatile and engaging custom screensaver that works seamlessly with Windows 11.
Here’s how to create a screensaver using this application:

1. Download and Launch Screensaver Wonder:
   • Install and open the app, then click on Create video screensaver.
2. Choose Your Media:
   • Browse and select the video file(s) you wish to use and click Next.
3. Name Your Screensaver:
   • Input a name for your screensaver and proceed by clicking Next.
4. Finalize the Creation:
   • Click Finish, then name your screensaver one last time, and click Save.
5. Utilize the Windows Screensaver Mechanism:
   • The Windows screensaver utility will pop up. Choose your newly minted screensaver and click Apply.
6. Complete the Setup:
   • Click OK and close both the utilities.

Now your screensaver will kick in automatically after your PC has been idle for your designated time. It’s important to note that free versions of screensavers may come with watermarks, but creating multiple screensavers might be worth it before the free trial expires!

Additional Tips​

• Feel free to embellish your screensavers with extra elements such as music or additional video loops through the screensaver application.
• For those looking to install custom screensavers from external sources, exercise caution: only deploy .scr files from reputable sites to avoid compatibility and safety issues.

Wrapping Up​

Screensavers may delight a shrinking crowd, but rest assured they’re far from obsolete. While the functionality might seem dated amidst modern aesthetics, a sprinkle of creativity can breathe new life into this classic aspect of computing.
Should Microsoft decide to revive the screensaver feature by integrating it into new applications like Photos or ClipChamp, who’s to say what further wonders we could see in the next Windows update? Until that glorious day arises, embrace your creative impulses with Screensaver Wonder and enjoy personalizing your PC the good old-fashioned way.
So, are you ready to reintroduce a splash of nostalgia with a custom screensaver, or will you stick to the flashy wallpapers? The choice, dear reader, is yours!
Source: YTECHB How to Create Custom Windows 11 Screensaver [2 Methods]