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Double Commander vs Start8

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

Double Commander icon
Double Commander
Start8 icon
Start8

Double Commander vs Start8: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Double Commander: Double Commander is an open-source, cross-platform file manager with two panels side-by-side interface. It allows easy copy, move, delete, rename, search operations and has advanced features like custom commands, plugins, archives support and more.

Start8: Start8 is a program that restores the Start menu and other interface features from Windows 7 and earlier versions in Windows 8 and 8.1. It brings back the familiar Start button, Start menu, and boot to desktop capabilities for users who prefer the classic Windows user experience.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Double Commander Start8
Sugggest Score — —
Category File Management Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

Double Commander
Double Commander

Description: Double Commander is an open-source, cross-platform file manager with two panels side-by-side interface. It allows easy copy, move, delete, rename, search operations and has advanced features like custom commands, plugins, archives support and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Start8
Start8

Description: Start8 is a program that restores the Start menu and other interface features from Windows 7 and earlier versions in Windows 8 and 8.1. It brings back the familiar Start button, Start menu, and boot to desktop capabilities for users who prefer the classic Windows user experience.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Double Commander
Double Commander Features
  • Dual panel interface
  • Tabbed interface
  • File operations like copy, move, delete, rename, etc.
  • Advanced search
  • Customizable keyboard shortcuts
  • Plugin support
  • Archive support
  • Compare files
  • Network file system support
Start8
Start8 Features
  • Restores the classic Start menu
  • Adds a Start button to the taskbar
  • Lets you boot directly to the desktop
  • Customizable Start menu with resizable tiles
  • Start menu skins and styles
  • Taskbar customization options
  • Advanced configuration settings

Pros & Cons Analysis

Double Commander
Double Commander

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Open source and free
  • Cross-platform
  • Highly customizable
  • Supports many archive formats
  • Has a portable version

Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • Less intuitive than GUI file managers for beginners
  • Lacks cloud storage integration
Start8
Start8

Pros

  • Brings back familiar Windows 7 interface
  • Highly customizable
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • May not appeal to Windows 8 fans
  • Requires an extra program just to get basic Windows features
  • Some customization options require paid upgrades

Pricing Comparison

Double Commander
Double Commander
  • Open Source
Start8
Start8
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

Double Commander
Double Commander
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Start8
Start8
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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