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mDesktop vs StartIsBack

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

mDesktop icon
mDesktop
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

mDesktop vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature mDesktop StartIsBack
Sugggest Score
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source

Product Overview

mDesktop
mDesktop

Description: mDesktop is a free and open source desktop virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical desktop or laptop. It provides a simple way to set up isolated and portable virtual machines.

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

mDesktop
mDesktop Features
  • Runs multiple operating systems on a single physical machine
  • Supports Windows, Linux and macOS virtual machines
  • Open source and free to use
  • Portable virtual machines
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Lightweight and resource efficient
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

mDesktop
mDesktop
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Allows using multiple operating systems
  • Isolates environments
  • Very portable
  • Simple to set up
  • Lightweight on system resources
Cons
  • Limited features compared to paid options
  • Less performant than commercial alternatives
  • Lacks enterprise management capabilities
  • Not officially supported or updated frequently
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

mDesktop
mDesktop
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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