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StartIsBack vs Windhawk

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

StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack
Windhawk icon
Windhawk

StartIsBack vs Windhawk: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

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.

Windhawk: Windhawk is a free and open-source email client for Windows. It is designed to be lightweight, fast, and easy to use, with support for multiple accounts, search, filters, and other basic email features.

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 StartIsBack Windhawk
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Office & Productivity
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

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

Windhawk
Windhawk

Description: Windhawk is a free and open-source email client for Windows. It is designed to be lightweight, fast, and easy to use, with support for multiple accounts, search, filters, and other basic email features.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

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
Windhawk
Windhawk Features
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Open source
  • Supports multiple email accounts
  • Email search
  • Email filters
  • Basic email features

Pros & Cons Analysis

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
Windhawk
Windhawk

Pros

  • Free
  • Open source
  • Lightweight
  • Fast
  • Supports multiple accounts

Cons

  • Limited features compared to paid options
  • Windows only
  • Lacks some advanced email features

Pricing Comparison

StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed
Windhawk
Windhawk
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Windhawk
Windhawk
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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