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FreeCommander vs StartIsBack

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

FreeCommander icon
FreeCommander
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

FreeCommander vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

FreeCommander: FreeCommander is a free and open source file manager for Windows. It provides an easy-to-use dual-pane interface, powerful file search and compare tools, archive support, and a customizable interface.

StartIsBack: 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.

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 FreeCommander StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category File Management Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

FreeCommander
FreeCommander

Description: FreeCommander is a free and open source file manager for Windows. It provides an easy-to-use dual-pane interface, powerful file search and compare tools, archive support, and a customizable interface.

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

FreeCommander
FreeCommander Features
  • Dual-pane interface
  • Tabbed interface
  • File operations (copy, move, delete, rename, etc.)
  • Advanced search and filtering
  • Archive support (zip, rar, etc.)
  • Plugin support
  • Customizable keyboard shortcuts and interface
  • Compare files and folders
  • Favorites and bookmarks
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

FreeCommander
FreeCommander

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Powerful file management features
  • Highly customizable
  • Supports plugins for added functionality
  • Works well with Windows Explorer

Cons

  • Less intuitive than Windows Explorer for new users
  • Limited cloud/online storage support
  • No native mounting of ISO or VHD files
  • Some features require plugins
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

FreeCommander
FreeCommander
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

FreeCommander
FreeCommander
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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