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StartIsBack vs XonChat

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

StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack
XonChat icon
XonChat

StartIsBack vs XonChat: 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.

XonChat: XonChat is an open-source Internet Relay Chat client for Windows, Linux, and Unix systems. It provides a simple to use interface with most common IRC client features including multiple channels, private messaging, highlights, nick lists, keybindings, notifications, 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 StartIsBack XonChat
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Social & Communications
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

XonChat
XonChat

Description: XonChat is an open-source Internet Relay Chat client for Windows, Linux, and Unix systems. It provides a simple to use interface with most common IRC client features including multiple channels, private messaging, highlights, nick lists, keybindings, notifications, and more.

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
XonChat
XonChat Features
  • Open source
  • Available for Windows, Linux and Unix
  • Simple interface
  • Support for multiple channels
  • Private messaging
  • Nickname lists
  • Keybindings
  • Notifications
  • Highlights

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
XonChat
XonChat

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Cross-platform support
  • Easy to use
  • Good feature set

Cons

  • Limited customization options
  • Small user community
  • Development seems stagnant

Pricing Comparison

StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed
XonChat
XonChat
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
XonChat
XonChat
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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