Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Open Shell VS Start Button 8

Compare Open Shell VS Start Button 8 and see what are their differences

Open Shell logo Open Shell

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

Start Button 8 logo Start Button 8

How to add a Start button to Windows 8? Just install Start Button 8!
  • Open Shell Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-07
  • Start Button 8 Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-04-10

Open Shell features and specs

  • Customization
    Open Shell provides extensive customization options, allowing users to modify the Start menu to fit their preferences, from design to functionality.
  • Familiar Interface
    It offers a classic start menu which is familiar to users of older Windows versions, making it easier for them to navigate.
  • Open Source
    Being an open-source project, it allows for community contributions, making it more transparent and potentially more secure.
  • No Cost
    Open Shell is free to use, providing a cost-effective solution for users who want a different Start menu experience without paying for software.
  • Regular Updates
    The project is fairly well-maintained, receiving updates that add new features and fix potential issues, improving user experience over time.

Possible disadvantages of Open Shell

  • Compatibility Issues
    There could be compatibility problems with certain Windows updates or third-party applications, requiring troubleshooting and fixes.
  • Learning Curve
    While it offers many customization options, new users might find the settings and customization process overwhelming and confusing initially.
  • Community Support
    As an open-source project, it relies heavily on community support rather than professional customer service, which can be a drawback for users needing prompt assistance.
  • Resource Usage
    Though generally lightweight, Open Shell can consume additional system resources, which might be impactful on less powerful machines.

Start Button 8 features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Start Button 8 provides an interface that is familiar to Windows users, making the transition from previous versions seamless and intuitive.
  • Customizability
    Offers a range of customization options for the start menu, allowing users to personalize their interface according to their preferences.
  • Efficiency
    Enables quick access to programs and files, improving overall productivity for users who prefer a traditional start menu approach.
  • Compatibility
    Compatible with multiple versions of Windows, ensuring that users with different systems can benefit from its features.
  • Ease of Installation
    The software is easy to install and set up, allowing users to start using it with minimal effort.

Possible disadvantages of Start Button 8

  • Limited Free Version
    The free version of Start Button 8 comes with limited features, encouraging users to purchase the full version for the complete set.
  • System Resource Usage
    May consume additional system resources, which could be a concern for users with older or less powerful computers.
  • Potential for Bugs
    As with any software, there may be occasional bugs or glitches, which could affect the user experience.
  • Device Compatibility
    Might not be fully compatible with all devices, particularly those running highly customized or niche operating systems.
  • Dependence on Third-Party Software
    Adding such software increases reliance on third-party applications, which could introduce security vulnerabilities or conflicts with other software.

Open Shell videos

Classic Menu for Windows 10 with Open Shell

Start Button 8 videos

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Open Shell and Start Button 8)
Note Taking
68 68%
32% 32
LMS
67 67%
33% 33
OS & Utilities
65 65%
35% 35
Bookmarks
69 69%
31% 31

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Open Shell and Start Button 8, 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.

Start Menu Reviver - Free Download! Recover and update your computer with Driver Reviver and Registry Reviver. Easily update software, unlock new functionality and remove hardware device errors and clean, repair and optimize your registry in a few simple mouse clicks!

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.

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.

StartIsBack - StartIsBack returns Windows 10 and Windows 8 a real fully featured start menu and start button, behaving exactly like the ones in Windows 7. It's totally awesome and easy solution for your new Windows woes.

GiMeSpace QuickMenu - A simple and fast task launcher and switcher.