How To: Bring the Classic Start Menu Back in Windows 8

Bring the Classic Start Menu Back in Windows 8

Microsoft's most anticipated OS has finally arrived, and there's no doubt that all of you out there who snagged a copy of Windows 8 are excited to see what's new.

Image via readwrite.com

But while Windows 8 has received plenty of rave reviews, some users are upset about one controversial change—the missing Start menu. The implementation of the new Metro interface has rendered the old Start menu unnecessary, but some folks just want what they're used to. If you're one of those users who wants the classic Start menu in Windows 8, here are just a few ways to get her back.

Classic Shell

This free download is a highly customizable collection of features, spanning from older versions of Windows (that were later removed) to newer ones. It has a customizable Start menu and Start button that you can use for Windows 8, as well as other great features that you can find listed in detail here.

Image via sourceforge.net

StartMenu8

If you want simplicity, StartMenu8 can deliver a Start menu/button without any other features. You can easily switch between the Metro screen and the Desktop interface. You can download the application for free here.

Image via iobit.com

Quick Starter

At first, Windows wasn't allowing Samsung to offer Quick Starter as a pre-installed option on Samsung devices, a download that would give users a Start menu with their devices.

Image via laptopmag.com

But, you can still download it for free from Samsung! Well, it's not available right now, but it will be shortly. It'll bring back the Start menu for Samsung devices running Windows 8, such as the Series 5 and Series 7 Slate.

Start8

If you don't mind shelling out a few dollars, Start8 might be the best choice of the bunch. The integration between the Start menu and the new features in Windows 8 is seamless.

Image via stardock.com

It's very simple to use, but offers many features. You can download a free 30-day trial here or buy it here.

Just updated your iPhone to iOS 18? You'll find a ton of hot new features for some of your most-used Apple apps. Dive in and see for yourself:

Photo by Scott Fulton

Be the First to Comment

Share Your Thoughts

  • Hot
  • Latest