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Open Shell VS TaskbarDock

Compare Open Shell VS TaskbarDock and see what are their differences

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Open Shell logo Open Shell

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

TaskbarDock logo TaskbarDock

TaskbarDock offers a few extra features to customize your Windows 10 taskbar.
  • Open Shell Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-07
  • TaskbarDock Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-27

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.

TaskbarDock features and specs

  • Customization
    TaskbarDock offers extensive customization options for the Windows taskbar, allowing users to modify the appearance and behavior to their preference.
  • User-Friendly
    The application provides a user-friendly interface, making it simple for users to navigate and apply desired changes to their taskbar.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source, TaskbarDock allows users to contribute to its development, ensuring continuous improvement and adaptation to user needs.
  • Lightweight
    TaskbarDock is a lightweight application that doesn’t significantly impact system performance, allowing smooth operation without resource strain.

Possible disadvantages of TaskbarDock

  • Compatibility Issues
    TaskbarDock may face compatibility issues with certain Windows updates or system configurations, potentially leading to functionality disruptions.
  • Limited Support
    As an open-source project, TaskbarDock may not have the same level of support as commercially developed applications, potentially leading to delays in addressing issues.
  • Potential Bugs
    Users might encounter occasional bugs or glitches, especially during integration with different system setups or Windows versions.
  • Limited Features
    While TaskbarDock offers useful customization options, it may not provide as many features as some other paid or more established taskbar customization tools.

Analysis of Open Shell

Overall verdict

  • Open Shell is considered a good tool for those who desire a more traditional Start Menu experience on modern Windows versions. It is reliable, versatile, and generally well-received by the community for resurrecting the familiar interface from previous Windows iterations.

Why this product is good

  • Open Shell (formerly known as Classic Shell) is appreciated for its ability to bring back the classic Start Menu functionality to Windows, particularly for users who prefer the interface design and usability of older versions of Windows. It provides a customizable menu, various skins, and additional enhancements for the Start Button, File Explorer, and Internet Explorer. The software is lightweight, free, and open source, allowing for a high degree of personalization and adaptability.

Recommended for

  • Users who prefer the classic Windows Start Menu.
  • Individuals who are not satisfied with the default Start Menu on newer Windows versions.
  • Users seeking a highly customizable and lightweight menu solution.
  • Technical users who appreciate open-source software and want to tweak their system appearance and functionality.
  • Anyone upgrading from older Windows versions who wants to maintain a consistent user interface experience.

Open Shell videos

+ Add

Classic Menu for Windows 10 with Open Shell

TaskbarDock videos

+ Add

TaskbarDock кастомайзинг стандартной панели задач Windows

More videos:

  • Review - TaskbarDock Где Скачать? Лучший редактор панели задач.

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Open Shell and TaskbarDock)

Open Shell

TaskbarDock

Note Taking
66 66%
Note Taking
34% 34
LMS
66 66%
LMS
34% 34
OS & Utilities
81 81%
OS & Utilities
19% 19
Web Service Automation
0 0%
Web Service Automation
100% 100

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Open Shell and TaskbarDock, 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.

7+ Taskbar Tweaker - 7+ Taskbar Tweaker allows you to configure various aspects of the Windows taskbar.

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.

TaskbarX - TaskbarX gives you control over the position of your taskbar icons.

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.

TranslucentTB - TranslucentTB make Windows Taskbar transparent

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