Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Classic Shell VS Portable Start Menu

Compare Classic Shell VS Portable Start Menu and see what are their differences

Classic Shell logo Classic Shell

Classic Shell was developed for Windows 8 since that was the first version of the popular operating system to forgo the iconic Start menu.

Portable Start Menu logo Portable Start Menu

Portable Start Menu - easy way to open/close applications on USB sticks
  • Classic Shell Landing page
    Landing page //
    2018-09-30
  • Portable Start Menu Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-07-27

Classic Shell features and specs

  • Customizable Start Menu
    Classic Shell allows users to customize the Start Menu to a significant extent, including changing the style and appearance to resemble earlier versions of Windows (XP, Vista, and 7).
  • Performance Enhancements
    The software is lightweight and generally does not consume significant system resources, making it a performance-efficient alternative to the default Start Menu.
  • Enhanced Usability
    It brings back certain features and functionalities that are familiar and preferred by users, enhancing overall user experience, particularly for those transitioning from older Windows versions.
  • Frequent Updates
    Classic Shell is regularly updated to ensure compatibility with new Windows updates, providing a reliable solution over time.
  • Free of Cost
    Classic Shell is available for free, making it an accessible option for anyone looking to improve their Start Menu without financial investment.

Possible disadvantages of Classic Shell

  • Limited Official Support
    As Classic Shell is developed primarily by volunteers, official support may be limited compared to commercial software.
  • Complexity
    The extensive customization options might be overwhelming for less tech-savvy users, leading to a steeper learning curve.
  • Potential Compatibility Issues
    Although updated frequently, there can be temporary compatibility issues with the latest Windows updates, requiring users to wait for the next release.
  • Lack of Modern Features
    Classic Shell aims to replicate older versions of Windows Start Menus, which might lack some of the modern features available in the default Windows Start Menu.
  • Discontinued Development
    Official development of Classic Shell was discontinued in December 2017. While community forks like Open-Shell continue the project, the lack of official development could be seen as a disadvantage.

Portable Start Menu features and specs

  • Portability
    Portable Start Menu can be run from a USB stick or any other portable device, allowing users to have their start menu preferences and shortcuts available on any Windows PC without installation.
  • Organizational Features
    The application provides users with a simple way to manage and organize applications and files, helping to streamline workflow and improve efficiency by reducing desktop clutter.
  • User-friendly Interface
    The interface is straightforward and easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all skill levels to set up and customize their start menu environment.
  • No Installation Required
    As a portable application, it does not require installation on the host computer, leaving no footprint on the system and ensuring privacy during use.

Possible disadvantages of Portable Start Menu

  • Limited to Windows
    Portable Start Menu is designed exclusively for Windows, limiting its utility for users who work across different operating systems.
  • Basic Functionality
    Compared to other application launchers, it might lack some advanced features that power users may expect, such as deep integration with system functions or extensive customization options.
  • Dependency on Portability
    While being portable is a core feature, it means that if the USB or portable device is lost or damaged, the user could lose their start menu configuration and shortcuts.
  • Occasional Compatibility Issues
    Some users may encounter compatibility issues with certain applications or Windows updates, which can affect the seamless operation of the software.

Analysis of Classic Shell

Overall verdict

  • Overall, Classic Shell is considered a good tool for those who want to enhance their Windows experience with more customization and a nod to classic Windows aesthetics. It's reliable, widely used, and addresses some of the usability concerns people have with newer Windows versions.

Why this product is good

  • Classic Shell is popular among users who prefer the familiar interface and user experience of older versions of Windows, particularly Windows 7 or even XP. It offers customization options for the Start Menu, Explorer, and other UI elements, allowing a more personalized and comfortable experience for those who are not fond of newer Windows UI changes.

Recommended for

    Classic Shell is recommended for users who miss the classic Windows Start menu and layout, those who find the new Windows designs less intuitive, and individuals who want more control over their interface customization. It's particularly suitable for people transitioning from older Windows versions to newer ones who wish to maintain a certain level of familiarity.

Classic Shell videos

Classic Shell with Windows 10!

More videos:

  • Review - Classic Shell Review | Make Windows 8 Like Windows 7 with Classic Shell
  • Review - Classic Shell 4.0.2 Review

Portable Start Menu videos

Portable Start Menu

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Classic Shell and Portable Start Menu)
Note Taking
63 63%
37% 37
LMS
59 59%
41% 41
OS & Utilities
72 72%
28% 28
Bookmarks
51 51%
49% 49

User comments

Share your experience with using Classic Shell and Portable Start Menu. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Classic Shell seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 18 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Classic Shell mentions (18)

View more

Portable Start Menu mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Portable Start Menu yet. Tracking of Portable Start Menu recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Classic Shell and Portable Start Menu, you can also consider the following products

Fences - Keep your desktop organized with Fences. This is a simple software program that allows you to sort the tabs on your desktop and create files that are easily recognizable to you.

SyMenu - SyMenu is a portable menu launcher and Start Menu replacement to organize your applications quickly...

Open Shell - Open Shell is a fork of the Classic Shell project for Windows that getting back the classic start...

PortableApps.com - PortableApps.com is a website offering many free, commonly used Windows applications that have been...

Start Menu X - Start Menu X with Start Button. Power users know how inconvenient and time-consuming it is to launch programs from the system menu.

PStart - PStart is a simple tray tool to start user defined applications.