If you are new to Windows 8, be prepared for a surprise! Windows 8 is different. In fact, it was redesigned from the ground up as an operating system that’s equally at home on a desktop PC, laptop and tablet. It’s the most significant upgrade to Microsoft’s operating system since Windows 95. Just in case you haven’t upgraded yet, make sure to check out my previous articles on how you can install Windows 8 on a virtual machine without removing your current Operating System.
The good news is that some smart developers have already found a work-around to bring back the start menu to Windows 8. There are currently a few third-party applications out there that can help you find your way in Windows 8. While I have listed the applications in no specific order, read up to the bottom to find out which one I recommend you to install.
1. Pokki Start Menu
Pokki Start Menu is probably one of the best-looking Start Menu out there. Although it does not look similar to previous Windows Start Menu, this nifty tool allows you to access your files and applications easily.
2. Vistart
Vistart is yet another start menu replacement for Windows 8. One thing I didn’t like about it during the installation process is that it comes bundled with adware applications such as Sweetim. Oh well, I guess the developers deserves to make a few quick bucks for their effort. (They get a commission if you choose to install those adwares. )
3. Classic Shell
Classic Shell comes with a lot of options to play with. You can switch to Windows Xp , Vista or Seven Start Menu easily. Best of all it is free and does not contain third party app unlike Vistart.
4. Win8StartButton
This app shrinks the Metro interface to the same size as a Start Menu. You might want to install this one if you want both a Start Menu and the Metro interface at the same time. Unfortunately, it seems that this tool is available only in German language.
5. Start Menu Modifier
This one does not really add anything to the desktop. It just breaks the ’tiles’ in the Metro UI horizontally.
6. Revel BringBack
While this one adds a really sexy Start Menu with a Windows 8 logo, it seems a little buggy as it did not remove the start menu image even after uninstalling it.
7. Spesoft Windows 8 Start Menu
This one looks pretty much the same as the Classic Shell except that it lacks some features like the restart/switch user button, and it seems to be a bit slow.
8. Power8
It is similar to Classic Shell except that its start button is smaller and users might find it difficult to click on.
9. Start Menu X
Start Menu is another replacement for the system menu that comes in two flavors: Free and Pro ($19.99). It is the only app that has the ability to resize itself.
10. IOBit StartMenu8
Once installed, it will not only bring you back your Start Menu in Windows 8 but also allows you to skip the Metro Screen and boot up directly to your desktop.
I have tried all the 10 tools mentioned above and I personally think Classic Shell is the best of them. It’s highly customizable and best of all it’s free. Now do you think people will get accustomed to the Windows 8 without the Start Menu ? Share your opinions with us in the comment section below.
