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StartIsBack vs WindowFX

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

StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack
WindowFX icon
WindowFX

StartIsBack vs WindowFX: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature StartIsBack WindowFX
Sugggest Score
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
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

WindowFX
WindowFX

Description: WindowFX is a free, open-source software that helps customize the look and feel of windows in Microsoft Windows. It allows changing themes, colors, transparency, animations, and more for the start menu, taskbar, window frames, and other interface elements.

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
WindowFX
WindowFX Features
  • Customize window colors
  • Customize taskbar
  • Change window animations
  • Modify window transparency
  • Apply custom themes

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
WindowFX
WindowFX
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use
  • Lots of customization options
Cons
  • Limited documentation
  • Some features may be buggy
  • Less options than paid software

Pricing Comparison

StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed
WindowFX
WindowFX
  • Open Source

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