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Compiz vs StartIsBack

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

Compiz icon
Compiz
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

Compiz vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Compiz StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

Compiz
Compiz

Description: Compiz is an open source compositing window manager for Linux Desktops. It provides desktop visual effects and window management functionality, and allows for plugins to provide additional features.

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

Compiz
Compiz Features
  • 3D desktop cube
  • Exposé-like workspace previews
  • Animated window switching
  • Desktop wallpaper plugins
  • Window decoration plugins
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

Compiz
Compiz
Pros
  • Highly customizable visual effects
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Supports many plugins
  • Open source and free
Cons
  • Steep learning curve
  • Can cause graphics issues
  • Not actively maintained anymore
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

Compiz
Compiz
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

Compiz
Compiz
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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