How-To Restore the Classic Start Menu in Windows 8

When Microsoft introduced Windows 8, they replaced the traditional Start Menu with a full-screen Start Screen, aiming to create a unified experience across devices. This change left many users missing the familiar Start Menu. Fortunately, several solutions emerged to bring back the classic Start Menu in Windows 8.

Microsoft’s tile-based Start screen received mixed reviews. A 2013 TechRepublic survey found that 47% of users favored the traditional Start Menu because they liked its simple way to access files, settings, and apps with just a few clicks.

Comparing Windows 8 Start Screen vs Classic Start Menu

Key Differences and User Experience

Switching from the classic Start Menu to the Windows 8 Start Screen was a significant change. Microsoft aimed to create a seamless experience across devices with live tiles, marking a departure from the simple, list-based classic Start Menu. The Windows 8 Start Screen showcased a colorful, touch-friendly design, ideal for tablets and touch-enabled laptops.

User Experience:

• Visual Appeal: Live tiles displayed updates like weather or email previews.
• Touch Optimization:Designed for touchscreens, it offered smooth scrolling on newer gadgets.
• Interactive Design: Customizable tiles allowed a personalized setup that many users loved.

Yet, not everyone found the transition easy. Long-time users of the classic interface missed its simplicity. The shift sparked mixed reactions as Microsoft explored new paths in operating system usability.

Reasons for Reverting to Classic Start Menu

Many chose to return to the classic Start Menu in Windows 8 for its familiarity and ease of use. Although the Start Screen introduced fresh design ideas, it didn’t fit everyone’s taste.

Familiarity and Efficiency

• Faster Access: The familiar dropdown of the classic Start Menu made finding programs and files easy.
• Consistency: For long-time Windows users, the classic menu was a comforting choice.
• Reduced Learning Curve: Adapting to the Start Screen took time, which not everyone wanted to spend.

To enhance the Windows 8 experience without the Start Screen, many used third-party tools that recreated the classic Start Menu, making the shift smoother and keeping productivity high.

How to Restore the Start Menu: Available Options

Several third-party applications were developed to reintroduce the Start Menu in Windows 8. Here are some notable ones:

1. Classic Shell: A free, open-source program that offers a highly customizable Start Menu with multiple styles and skins. It also provides features like a toolbar and status bar for Windows Explorer. Note that as of December 2017, Classic Shell is no longer in active development.
2. StartIsBack: This tool brings back the original Windows 7 Start Menu, fully integrated into Windows 8, offering a seamless experience with additional customization options.
3. Stardock’s Start8: A paid application that restores the Start Button and Start Menu, allowing users to boot directly to the desktop and customize the Start Menu’s appearance.
4. Pokki: A free application that not only brings back the Start Menu but also introduces an app store, enabling users to access various web apps directly from the desktop.
5. RetroUI: This utility adds a Start Menu and taskbar to Windows 8, making the taskbar visible on the Start Screen and allowing users to run Windows Store apps in resizable windows.

Comparison Table for Classic Shell Alternatives

Implementing Classic Shell: A Step-by-Step Guide

To restore the Start Menu using Classic Shell, follow these steps:

1. Download Classic Shell: Visit the official website and download the installer.
2. Install the Application:
   • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • Accept the license agreement and choose the components you wish to install.
   • Complete the installation process.
3. Configure Classic Shell:
   • After installation, click the new Start Button to open the Classic Shell settings.
   • Select your preferred Start Menu style (Classic, Two Columns, or Windows 7 style).
   • Customize the skin, behavior, and other settings to suit your preferences.
4. Access the Start Menu: Click the Start Button to use your newly restored Start Menu.

Alternative Methods Without Third-Party Tools

If you prefer not to use third-party applications, you can create a makeshift Start Menu using the built-in toolbar feature:

1. Create a Start Menu Toolbar:
   • Right-click on the taskbar, navigate to Toolbars, and select “New toolbar.”
   • In the folder selection window, enter the following path: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs.
   • Click “Select Folder” to add a Start Menu-style toolbar to your taskbar.
2. Use Keyboard Shortcuts:
   • Press Windows + X to open the Power User Menu, which provides quick access to common tools and settings.
3. Pin Frequently Used Applications:
   • Right-click on applications and select “Pin to Taskbar” or “Pin to Start” to make them easily accessible.

FAQs

By following these solutions, you can effectively bring back the Windows 8 Start Menu and restore your desktop experience. Whether using third-party tools or built-in methods, you have options to make Windows 8 work for you.