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Alt-Tab Thingy vs StartIsBack

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Alt-Tab Thingy icon
Alt-Tab Thingy
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

Alt-Tab Thingy vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Alt-Tab Thingy StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

Alt-Tab Thingy
Alt-Tab Thingy

Description: Alt-Tab Thingy is a small utility that enhances the default Alt-Tab switcher in Windows. It adds thumbnail previews, windows titles, and custom behaviors to make switching between open apps and documents faster.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

StartIsBack
StartIsBack

Description: StartIsBack is a program that restores the classic Start menu interface and other Windows UI features to newer Windows versions like Windows 8 and 10. It brings back the familiar Start menu layout with expandable sections, pinned apps, recent items list, power options and more.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Alt-Tab Thingy
Alt-Tab Thingy Features
  • Adds thumbnail previews to the Alt-Tab switcher
  • Shows window titles under thumbnails
  • Lets you customize Alt-Tab behaviors and shortcuts
  • Supports switching between open apps and documents
  • Lightweight and runs in the background
StartIsBack
StartIsBack Features
  • Restores classic Start menu interface on Windows 8/8.1/10
  • Lets you customize Start menu layout and style
  • Adds quick access to recently used apps, files, folders
  • Lets you pin apps, programs, files, folders to Start
  • Adds power options like Restart, Sleep, Shut Down
  • Adds desktop context menu options
  • Lets you boot to desktop instead of Start screen

Pros & Cons Analysis

Alt-Tab Thingy
Alt-Tab Thingy
Pros
  • Makes Alt-Tab switching faster and more visual
  • Highly customizable via settings
  • Easy to use and lightweight
  • Enhances default Windows functionality
  • Free with no ads or bloatware
Cons
  • May not work with some fullscreen apps
  • Requires manual configuration
  • Lacks some features of paid alternatives
  • Development seems inactive currently
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Pros
  • Brings back familiar Windows 7 style Start menu
  • Highly customizable layout and appearance
  • Easy to configure and use
  • Lightweight program with little impact on performance
Cons
  • May not appeal to users who prefer Windows 8/10 style Start screen
  • Occasional minor bugs or glitches
  • Lacks some customization options of paid Start menu replacements

Pricing Comparison

Alt-Tab Thingy
Alt-Tab Thingy
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

Alt-Tab Thingy
Alt-Tab Thingy
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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