So much has been said about Windows 8 and its rather unpopular decision of removing Windows Start button from the desktop screen. While Microsoft tried to alleviate the issue by bringing the tool back with Windows 8.1, the feel isn’t the same with the menu transferring the user back into the ‘messy’ metro style display. If this feature is keeping you from upgrading to the latest Windows releases, we have good news. There are numerous tools available online that will place the all-hailed start button back to its usual place, imitating the same look, as well as copying the same functions observed by all previous OS versions.
The foremost solution which is always encouraged is checking your PC primary healthiness and restoring any discrepancy that perhaps is bringing about the disturbance:
- Step 1 : Download Systimizer – PC Cleaner Tool (Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7 & XP)
- Step 2 : Click “Scan” to find Windows issues
- Step 3 : Click “Fix” to eliminate all troubles
But, that is not all! Upon trying dozens of these apps from various developers, I have gathered for you a list of some recommendations on which you may use, and which ones you should avoid. So, before you begin your search for the lost button, read this article and ensure you get only the best for your machine.
Windows8StartButton plays the neutral role by using the best of both worlds. It attaches the Start button to your desktop screen, but the menu is more accustomed to the short-sized version of Start Screen of Windows 8.x.When you open the Start Menu, you can quickly type in a few characters to search for your specific program. However, it does so the same way as the Metro Screen. Also, some of the options are in German, limiting the worldwide usage of this utility.
All in all, it is a good third party program that can familiarize you with the start screen, but there are some better alternatives that you can use.
Start8 brings back the Start menu with possibly the best results. Developed by Stardock, this tool offers a polished and neat layout with support for search and one-click access to your poplar folders, including My Documents, Pictures, Downloads, etc.
Furthermore, this button can be customized to boot the computer straight into the Desktop mode. Don’t know about you, but this feature brought me a little closer to the old Windows feel. For best results, use the 30-day trial period before purchasing the user license.
While this feature succeeds in cloning the Windows 7 menu, it adds various other programs to your computer, most commonly registry cleaners that can be harmful if not verified properly. Therefore, this program should be avoided.
Originally created to enhance the functionality of Windows Vista and Windows 7, this menu has now been updated to support Windows 8. It consists of multiple features, including quick access to recent folders, toolbar and status bar for Windows Explorer, caption and status bar for Internet Explorer, and quite a few more. To add cherry on top; this highly ranked Start menu alternative is absolutely free to use.
If you dearly miss Windows 7 Start menu, StartIsBack will bring your old memories back to life. Keeping the unique icon aside, this utility works identically to Microsoft’s last official Start menu. Recent and pinned programs are positioned on the left panel, while the more ‘serious’ applications including Computer, Control Panel, Devices and Printers, etc. take their places on the right.
If at any time, you wish to visit the Modern Interface, this can be easily done via the Start Screen options listed behind All Programs’ App submenu.
This app isn’t exactly the Windows 7 menu that you’d like to see. It’s more like what Microsoft would have produced had it added a Start menu in Windows 8. Similar to the Metro Screen, it displays rectangular tiles for the icons, however, the arrangement is admittedly much friendlier.
On the top lies My Computer and Internet Explorer, followed by a Start Screen option. Below are 16 tiles which you can utilize for any installed program, desktop or Modern.
Still, I would suggest you use this app only if you are using a tablet; the touch-friendly environment makes the display easier and the selection more fun. On the other hand, desktop users are advised to look into some other options.
To conclude, Start8, StartIsBack and Classic Shell are your safest bets. Having said that, I would also recommend you play fair, and give Windows 8 a try for about two weeks. Generally, the issue isn’t troubling as it first seems.
