StartIsBack is a popular Start Menu replacement for Windows 8 and 10, bringing back the familiar Windows 7-style Start Menu.
Best Classic Start Menu Alternatives ranked by AI · updated May 2025
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Classic Start Menu is a software that brings back the traditional Windows Start Menu for users who prefer the older interface.
Price: Free
🎯 classicstartmenu.com
Top 6 Classic Start Menu alternatives
Open Shell is a software that brings classic Start Menu back to Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.
Start Menu X is a replacement of the system menu for professionals.
Free version available, Pro version at $19.99
Pokki is a platform that enables users to discover and install various apps on their desktop.
Handy Start Menu is a software tool that enhances the Windows Start Menu functionality, making it more organized and efficient.
Power8 is an open-source Start menu replacement created for Windows 8 users who want a traditional desktop launcher. It provides searchable programs,...
Pros
- Free and open source unlike most polished commercial replacements
- Restores a traditional Start menu on Windows 8
- Includes program search and direct access to common system locations
Cons
- Development and compatibility are much more limited than newer replacements
- Designed primarily for Windows 8 rather than current Windows versions
- Fewer customization options than Start11 or StartAllBack
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