Skip to content

RBTray Fork vs Start8

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

RBTray Fork icon
RBTray Fork
Start8 icon
Start8

RBTray Fork vs Start8: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

RBTray Fork: RBTray Fork is an open-source alternative to Redbrick Tray, a system tray utility for resource monitoring. It displays system statistics like CPU usage, memory usage, network speeds, fan speeds, and temperatures.

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 RBTray Fork Start8
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

RBTray Fork
RBTray Fork

Description: RBTray Fork is an open-source alternative to Redbrick Tray, a system tray utility for resource monitoring. It displays system statistics like CPU usage, memory usage, network speeds, fan speeds, and temperatures.

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

RBTray Fork
RBTray Fork Features
  • Displays system statistics like CPU usage, memory usage, network speeds, fan speeds, and temperatures
  • Customizable interface with different themes and layouts
  • Supports monitoring multiple PCs on a network
  • Plugin support for additional functionality
  • Open source and free
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

RBTray Fork
RBTray Fork

Pros

  • Lightweight and low resource usage
  • Highly customizable interface
  • Monitors all key system resources
  • Remote monitoring capabilities
  • Free and open source

Cons

  • Lacks some advanced features of proprietary alternatives
  • Setup can be tricky for novice users
  • Plugins can be unstable
  • Development is slow due to small team
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

RBTray Fork
RBTray Fork
  • Open Source
Start8
Start8
  • Not listed

Related Comparisons

StartAllBack
vs RBTray Fork vs Start8
Minimize To Tray Tool
vs RBTray Fork vs Start8

Learn More About Each Product

RBTray Fork
RBTray Fork
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Start8
Start8
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

RBTray Fork Alternatives
Start8 Alternatives
Browse More Software