Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

RetroBar VS Classic Start Menu

Compare RetroBar VS Classic Start Menu and see what are their differences

RetroBar logo RetroBar

Classic Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, XP, Vista taskbar for modern versions of Windows - GitHub - dremin/RetroBar: Classic Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, XP, Vista taskbar for modern versions of Windows

Classic Start Menu logo Classic Start Menu

Classic Start Menu is considered as a perfect replacement to Windows 7 Start Menu.
  • RetroBar Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-11-06
  • Classic Start Menu Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-20

RetroBar features and specs

  • Nostalgic Design
    RetroBar offers a classic Windows taskbar design that appeals to users who prefer the look and feel of older Windows operating systems, bringing a sense of nostalgia and simplicity.
  • Lightweight Application
    The software is lightweight and consumes minimal system resources, making it an excellent choice for users who want a simple and efficient taskbar replacement without the bloat of modern alternatives.
  • Customization Options
    RetroBar provides a variety of customization options, allowing users to modify the appearance of the taskbar to better fit their aesthetic preferences or workflow requirements.
  • Open Source
    Being an open-source project, RetroBar allows users to contribute to its development, ensuring ongoing improvements and the ability to tailor the software to their needs.
  • Compatibility with Modern Windows
    RetroBar supports modern versions of Windows, enabling users to enjoy an old-school interface without sacrificing compatibility with newer software or features.

Possible disadvantages of RetroBar

  • Limited Features
    Compared to modern taskbar solutions, RetroBar might lack some advanced features that users have come to expect, such as integrated search or customizable widgets.
  • Potential Stability Issues
    As with any customization tool, there is a potential risk of stability issues or conflicts with other software, especially considering the frequent updates to Windows.
  • Requires Manual Setup
    Users might need to go through a manual setup process to achieve their desired config, which could be intimidating for less tech-savvy individuals or those unfamiliar with open-source software.
  • Limited Support
    Since it is a community-driven project, users may experience limited official support, relying mostly on community resources and forums for troubleshooting and assistance.

Classic Start Menu features and specs

  • Familiar User Interface
    The Classic Start Menu offers users the familiar look and feel of the traditional Windows Start menu, making it easier for users who are accustomed to this layout.
  • Customization Options
    Users can customize their start menu experience with various settings, such as changing the look and feel, setting keyboard shortcuts, and adjusting menu contents.
  • Lightweight
    Classic Start Menu is a lightweight application that does not require significant system resources, making it suitable for older computers.
  • Improved Productivity
    By providing a straightforward and easy-to-navigate interface, users can quickly access frequently used applications and settings, enhancing overall productivity.
  • Enhanced Control
    Offers enhanced control over the start menu operations, allowing users to organize programs and files as per their preferences.

Possible disadvantages of Classic Start Menu

  • Limited Modern Features
    Classic Start Menu lacks some of the newer features and integrations found in more recent Windows start menus, potentially limiting functionality for some users.
  • Compatibility Issues
    There may be compatibility issues with the latest versions of Windows, as these types of programs may not always be fully updated to integrate with newer OS updates.
  • Potential Learning Curve
    Although familiar to some, new users or those accustomed to modern interfaces may experience a learning curve when adapting to the Classic Start Menu.
  • Security Concerns
    Third-party applications such as Classic Start Menu may introduce security vulnerabilities if not regularly updated or properly maintained.
  • Lack of Official Support
    As a third-party tool, it might not receive the same level of official support or updates as native Windows features.

RetroBar videos

RetroBar - Bringing the Windows XP Taskbar to Windows 11! (Overview & Demo)

More videos:

  • Review - RetroBar Software Review

Classic Start Menu videos

Classic Start Menu For Windows 10

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to RetroBar and Classic Start Menu)
OS & Utilities
29 29%
71% 71
Note Taking
29 29%
71% 71
LMS
29 29%
71% 71
Bookmarks
45 45%
55% 55

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

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

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

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.

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.

StartAllBack - StartAllBack is software that helps to customize the start menu to Windows 7 & 8.