If you’re holding the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in your hands, you’ve already got one of the most powerful mobile tools out there. But what really sets this phone apart is the S Pen—it’s more than just a stylus. It’s your personal assistant, creative tool, and productivity booster all in one.
Now, here’s something many Galaxy users don’t know: you can actually switch between a standard and compact S Pen menu to match your style. Some users prefer the full menu with labels and details, while others like a cleaner, icon-only layout. Either way, the choice is yours—and it only takes a few taps.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to switch between standard and compact S Pen menu on Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, step by step. Whether you’re new to the S Pen or just want to make it work better for you, this quick customization can make your everyday tasks feel smoother and faster.
Let’s dive in and unlock the full potential of your S Pen.
What’s the Difference? Standard vs. Compact S Pen Menu
If you’re new to customizing the S Pen menu on your Galaxy S24 Ultra, you might be wondering what exactly the “Standard” and “Compact” options are all about. Good question—this small setting makes a big difference in how you interact with your phone.
Standard Menu: Everything Front and Center
The Standard S Pen menu gives you a full, detailed view. When you pop the S Pen out or press the button, you’ll see a larger panel with icons and text labels for each feature like Smart Select, Screen Write, Live Messages, and more.
This layout is great if:
- You’re new to the S Pen and want things clearly labeled.
- You like seeing feature names at a glance.
- You prefer a traditional, user-friendly menu.
It’s all about clarity and ease of use—nothing is hidden or shortened.
Compact Menu: Sleek and Minimal
The Compact S Pen menu, on the other hand, is a simplified version. It shows the same tools, but only as icons—no text labels underneath. This style keeps your screen less cluttered and gives a modern, minimalist feel.
You might like compact mode if:
- You’re already familiar with the S Pen icons.
- You want to free up more space on your screen.
- You prefer a clean, no-frills interface.
Think of it like a shortcut bar for pros who know exactly what they need.
Which One Should You Use?
Honestly, there’s no “better” option—it comes down to how you use your S Pen. If you like seeing labels and having a more guided experience, go with Standard. If you want a fast, sleek layout that stays out of the way, try Compact.
The good news? You can switch between them anytime. And I’ll show you exactly how in the next section.
Step-by-Step: How to Switch Between Standard and Compact S Pen Menu on Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Whether you’re aiming for a clean look or need bigger labels to navigate your tools, Samsung gives you full control over how the S Pen menu appears. Here’s exactly how you can switch between the standard and compact S Pen menu on your Galaxy S24 Ultra—step by step, no tech jargon.
Step 1: Open Your Settings
Start by unlocking your Galaxy S24 Ultra, then swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon to open Settings. You can also find the Settings app on your home screen or in the app drawer.
Step 2: Go to Advanced Features
Scroll through the Settings menu until you see Advanced Features. Tap on it—this is where Samsung hides most of the good stuff, especially S Pen controls.
Step 3: Tap on “S Pen”
Inside Advanced Features, you’ll see a dedicated option labeled S Pen. Go ahead and tap it to access all the custom tools related to your stylus.
Step 4: Select “Air Command”
Once you’re in the S Pen menu, tap on Air Command. This is the panel that pops up when you remove the S Pen or press its side button—it’s where the menu layout options live.
Step 5: Choose Your Menu Style
Under the Air Command settings, you’ll see the option to pick either:
- Standard Menu – Shows icons with text labels.
- Compact Menu – Shows only icons for a cleaner look.
Tap on the one you prefer. Your S Pen menu will update instantly—no need to restart anything.
You can switch back and forth anytime. Try both styles for a day or two to see which one fits your workflow better. I’ve seen creative users prefer Compact for design work and business users stick to Standard for clarity. There’s no wrong choice—just what works for you.
That’s it! You’ve now mastered how to switch between the standard and compact S Pen menu on your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. In just a few taps, you can customize your experience and boost your productivity. Enable/Disable Camera Super Steady Mode on Galaxy S24
Wrap-Up: Personalize Your S Pen, Your Way
And there you have it—switching between the standard and compact S Pen menu on your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is quick, simple, and totally worth doing. Whether you’re someone who prefers a clean, icon-only layout or you like having everything labeled and laid out, Samsung gives you the power to choose what works best for you.
The S Pen isn’t just a fancy add-on. It’s a tool that can save you time, spark creativity, and make everyday tasks feel smoother. And when you take a minute to personalize it—even down to the way the menu looks—you’re not just customizing your phone. You’re upgrading your entire experience.
As a technician, I always tell people: “Don’t settle for the default—tune your phone to match how you actually use it.” Little changes like this make your S24 Ultra feel less like a phone and more like your personal smart assistant.
So go ahead—test out both menu styles, see what feels right, and don’t be afraid to make your device truly yours. That’s the real power of the Galaxy.