5 Start Menu Replacements for Windows 8

Microsoft Windows 8 has been crowned as the next generation operating system (OS) for bringing in the touch revolution into the desktop, laptop, and tablet PC markets however, the OS was criticized on various fronts. Empowered with tiled interface and multiple-tasking features, the OS was expected to deliver better experiences to its users by making a few changes in its appearance and interface. The omission of the ‘Start’ button and the Start Menu didn’t impress the users much and this created a lot of disappointment among Windows users. Microsoft realized the mistake before it’s too late and released the Windows 8.1, a free update, to ensure that its customer base remains unchanged.

Many users opted for this update, but several wants to stick to their Windows 8 version. So, what’s next? After using these two in each version of Windows after another, it’s very difficult to avoid its presence in the OS. Users find themselves getting lost or freezed in the sections of this OS while looking or searching for things, and the Desktop Interface is now treated as just another app. To overcome such huge issues and problems with a Start button and menu, a large number of Start menu replacements are made available in the market. Some of them are free, some of them are paid, but each one of them is trying hard to be acclaimed as a best Start menu replacements.

Here’s the list of 5 Start Menu Replacements for Windows 8 that will help you maintain optimal productivity and efficiency.

1. Classic Shell IOBit StartMenu8 Pokki

Classic Shell is a free app that acts as an excellent open-source Start menu replacement, making your Windows work efficiently like never before. The app has several skins and interfaces that will make you feel that your device is set with a Windows 7/Vista, Windows XP, or Windows 2000/98 start menu. Coming with an extremely configurable interface the app can be easily installed by using Ninite while setting up your new computer.

Exciting Features:

·Multiple styles and skins

·Highly customizable start menu

·Offers Toolbar and Status Bar for Windows Explorer

·Instant access to frequently-used, recent, or pinned programs

·Find programs, settings, files, and documents using in-built Search box

·Start button for Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1

·Provides Caption and Status Bar for Internet Explorer

2. Start8

Developed by Stardock, the Start8 app is offered for free under a 30-day trial offer however, you’ll have to pay $5, if a user wants to use it for longer. The app is efficient in offering a Windows 8-style Start menu, but it can also provide you a glimpse of the Windows 7-style Start menu. Owing to its clear interface and amazing power-packed features, the app is capable of producing an accurate reproduction of Windows 7’s Start menu. The Start menu looks quite similar to that of introduced with Windows 8.1, but the only difference is that you can use it without going full-screen.

Exciting Features:

·Scroll across the various designs and add the best to your desktop

·Offers advanced Windows 7-styled start menu for Windows 8

·Allow you to pin desktop as well as modern apps to the Windows 8 Start menu

·Lets you boot directly to the Windows 8 desktop

·Provides Jump List support

·Provides ‘Search’ box to locate apps, settings and files

·Immediately gain one-click access to shut down, devices, music, documents, and videos

3. IOBit StartMenu8

IObit StartMenu8 is a free to download software that is capable of offering you a start up alternate that works similar to the Windows 7 Start menu. The tool is specially designed for Windows 8 users who feel annoyed and frustrated due to the missing Start button and menu. The software serves as an ideal solution for users who wish to work with Windows Start Menu, but couldn’t find one in Windows 8. Offering you the option to skip Metro start page, the tool will allow a user to boot to Windows 8 desktop directly. After installing the tool on your device, you will be able to disable the other hot corners, skip the Start screen at login, and hide the charms sidebar.

Exciting Features:

·Easily switch between metro and desktop interface

·Offers quick access to programs and files

·Customizable skins and menu for added support

·Easy to install and Free to use

4. Pokki

Pokki serves as an amazing app store for Windows and also provides a Start menu for Windows 8. Unlike others, the tool does try to copy Microsoft’s Start menu exactly rather it gives you the liberty to choose your personal favorite from an array of different designs. You can easily spot various categories for your applications and settings that can make your work easier and streamlined. The tool also allows you to pin your most-used programs in the ‘Favorites’ section for quicker access.

Exciting Features:

·Find and open your programs, files, Control Panel, and Power options

·One-click Start button to gain access over different programs

·A customized yet modern Start Menu

·Search and organize your favorite apps

·Access hundreds of free apps

·Discover and install free apps on your device

5. ViStart 8

Vistart 8 is popular software that will help you set back your Start menu and other button on your Windows 8 device. The tool comes with a pre-installed set of Start Menu skins, Start Menu buttons, and some other extra features to make your device more productive and efficient. Made available for free, the tool fits compatible with all your Windows 8, Windows 7, Vista, and XP devices. The tool doesn’t have many exciting features however, it can easily serve you as a simple Windows 8 Start Menu replacement.

The above mentioned are some of the best options available for Windows 8 users to resolve their issues with missing Start Menu and Start button. These tools not only serve as an ideal replacement for the missing feature but will also provide access to some of the amazing features that make the entire working experience better and streamlined. Customized skins, and menus will offer better appeal and access to menu, however, some tools will offer access to apps stores as well. Arriving with so many features and solutions, these tools are the must-try thing for every Windows 8 user.

Brooke M. Perry is an ardent technician associated with Qresolve online computer support with wide experience of fixing issues with PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphone. With a strong track record of devising effective ways of online tech support and system security, she has so far helped thousands of users across the globe.