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gDesklets vs StartIsBack

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

gDesklets icon
gDesklets
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

gDesklets vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

gDesklets: gDesklets is an open source desktop widget engine for Linux systems such as Ubuntu and Fedora. It allows users to add mini applications like clocks, system monitors, note pads, photo frames, and more to their desktop.

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 gDesklets StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

gDesklets
gDesklets

Description: gDesklets is an open source desktop widget engine for Linux systems such as Ubuntu and Fedora. It allows users to add mini applications like clocks, system monitors, note pads, photo frames, and more to their desktop.

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

gDesklets
gDesklets Features
  • Desktop widgets for Linux systems
  • Clocks, system monitors, note pads, photo frames
  • Customizable widgets
  • Supports multiple widget layouts
  • Widgets provide system info and tools
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

gDesklets
gDesklets

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Very customizable and extensible
  • Large library of widgets
  • Lightweight and low resource usage
  • Works nicely on Ubuntu, Fedora and other Linux distros

Cons

  • Development has stalled, lacking updates
  • Not many recent widgets available
  • Some widgets no longer maintained
  • Less features than more modern options
  • Requires technical know-how to create widgets
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

gDesklets
gDesklets
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

gDesklets
gDesklets
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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