Change App Icon Size on Samsung Galaxy Phones
You can change the app icon size on Samsung Galaxy phones through the Home Screen settings, which let you adjust the icon grid size and, on some models, the icon scale. This guide covers the exact steps for One UI, how to fine-tune the result, and what to do when the settings don’t behave as expected.
Where the Setting Lives in One UI
On current Samsung Galaxy phones running One UI (Android 9 and later), the icon size is tied to the home screen grid. The grid determines how many icons fit across and down the screen; a larger grid (5×5 or 5×6) makes each icon smaller, while a smaller grid (4×4 or 4×5) makes them larger. You can also change the icon scale separately on some models, but the grid is the primary control.
How to Change the Icon Grid Size
- Press and hold an empty area of the Home screen until the menu appears.
- Tap Settings (the gear icon) at the bottom right.
- Scroll to Home screen grid and tap it.
- Choose a grid size from the options (e.g., 4×5, 5×5, 5×6). The preview updates immediately.
- Tap Apply (or Done) to save.
On some devices, you can also adjust Icon size in the same settings menu—this scales the icons themselves without changing the grid. If you don’t see that option, your model may not support it.
What Each Grid Size Looks Like
- 4×4: Large icons, fewer on screen—good for accessibility or if you prefer a spacious look.
- 4×5: A balanced default on many models.
- 5×5: Smaller icons, more per screen—useful if you have many apps.
- 5×6: The smallest grid option on most phones, packing the most icons.
Remember that the grid also affects widget sizes. A widget that spans 2×2 will take up more physical space on a 4×4 grid than on a 5×5 grid, so you may need to resize widgets after changing the grid.
Using a Third-Party Launcher for More Control
If the built-in options aren’t enough, you can install a launcher like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher from the Google Play Store. These let you set the icon size independently of the grid, with a slider for precise control. To use one, install the app, open it, and set it as the default Home app in Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > Home app. The launcher’s own settings will then control icon size and grid.
Keep in mind that switching launchers changes the overall look and feel of your home screen, and some Samsung-specific features (like the Edge panel or Bixby routines) may not work as seamlessly on third-party launchers.
Common Problems and Fixes
- No “Home screen grid” option: Some devices (especially budget models) may not have this setting. Try updating to the latest One UI version, or use a third-party launcher.
- Icons look blurry after resizing: This can happen if the icon size is set to a non-standard value. Stick to the grid presets, or use a launcher that scales icons properly.
- Grid change doesn’t stick: If the change reverts, try restarting the phone or clearing the Home screen’s cache (Settings > Apps > Samsung One UI Home > Storage > Clear cache).
- Widgets overlap after changing grid: Long-press the widget and drag it to a new position, or resize it by dragging its corner handles.
Does Changing Icon Size Affect Performance or Battery?
No. The icon size is purely a visual setting; it has no measurable impact on performance, battery life, or storage. The only practical effect is on screen real estate and your personal comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my app icons so big after a software update?
Updates sometimes reset the home screen grid to the default. Go to Home screen settings and reapply your preferred grid size. If the icons still look large, check if the display zoom or font size was changed in Settings > Display > Screen zoom and font.
Can I change the icon size on the app drawer screen?
Yes. In Home screen settings, look for Apps screen grid (or similar). This controls the grid in the app drawer, independent of the home screen grid. On some models, you may need to open the app drawer and press the three-dot menu to find the grid settings.
Will changing the grid size affect the size of widgets?
Yes, widgets are sized in grid units. If you switch from 4×4 to 5×5, a 2×2 widget will occupy a smaller physical area. You can often resize widgets by long-pressing and dragging the handles, but some widgets have fixed sizes.
Is there a way to make icons even smaller than the smallest grid?
Not with the stock launcher. The 5×6 grid is the smallest built-in option. For more granular control, use a third-party launcher that allows you to set icon size in pixels or as a percentage.
Do these steps work on Samsung Galaxy Tab devices?
Yes, the same settings apply to Samsung tablets running One UI. The grid options may differ slightly (e.g., 5×7 on larger screens), but the menu path is the same.
What if I can’t find the Home screen settings at all?
If long-pressing the home screen doesn’t show a Settings gear, try going to Settings > Display > Home screen. On some older models, the option is under Settings > Display > Home screen settings.
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