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OpenAsar vs StartIsBack

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

OpenAsar icon
OpenAsar
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

OpenAsar vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

OpenAsar: OpenAsar is an open-source replacement for the proprietary ASAR archive format used by Electron apps. It allows developers to inspect, modify, and repackage Electron app content more easily.

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 OpenAsar StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category Development Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

OpenAsar
OpenAsar

Description: OpenAsar is an open-source replacement for the proprietary ASAR archive format used by Electron apps. It allows developers to inspect, modify, and repackage Electron app content more easily.

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

OpenAsar
OpenAsar Features
  • Unpacks and repacks ASAR files
  • Inspects and modifies app content
  • Open source and cross-platform
  • Command line interface
  • JavaScript API
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

OpenAsar
OpenAsar

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Allows modifying Electron apps
  • Better than proprietary ASAR format
  • Active development and support

Cons

  • Less widely used than ASAR format
  • Requires learning new tool
  • Less support from Electron compared to ASAR
  • Potential compatibility issues
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

OpenAsar
OpenAsar
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

OpenAsar
OpenAsar
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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