Classic Shell vs WinMetro

Classic Shell — Classic Shell is a free, open-source program that restores the Start menu and other interface elements from older versions of Windows. It brings back the familiar menus and toolbars for users who pref

WinMetro — WinMetro is a Windows software that provides a Metro-style user interface for Windows desktop applications. It makes traditional desktop apps look and feel like Windows Store apps.

Classic Shell offers Restores Start Menu from Windows XP, Vista and 7, Adds quick launch toolbar, Lets you customize Start Menu layout, Supports themes and skins, Lets you boot to desktop instead of Start screen, while WinMetro provides Metro-style UI for desktop apps, Customizable tile-based start menu, Touch-friendly interface, Live tiles, Gesture support.

Classic Shell stands out for Free and open source, Lightweight and customizable, Familiar interface for longtime Windows users; WinMetro is known for Modern, clean interface, Touchscreen optimization, Highly customizable layout.

Feature	Classic Shell	WinMetro
Overall Score	N/A	N/A
Primary Category	Os & Utilities	Os & Utilities
Pricing	Open Source	N/A

Product Overview

Classic Shell

Description: Classic Shell is a free, open-source program that restores the Start menu and other interface elements from older versions of Windows. It brings back the familiar menus and toolbars for users who prefer the classic Windows UI.

WinMetro

Description: WinMetro is a Windows software that provides a Metro-style user interface for Windows desktop applications. It makes traditional desktop apps look and feel like Windows Store apps.

Key Features Comparison

Classic Shell Features

• Restores Start Menu from Windows XP, Vista and 7
• Adds quick launch toolbar
• Lets you customize Start Menu layout
• Supports themes and skins
• Lets you boot to desktop instead of Start screen
• Adds desktop icons and taskbar

WinMetro Features

• Metro-style UI for desktop apps
• Customizable tile-based start menu
• Touch-friendly interface
• Live tiles
• Gesture support
• Dark/light theme options

Pros & Cons Analysis

Classic Shell

Pros

• Free and open source
• Lightweight and customizable
• Familiar interface for longtime Windows users
• Active development and support

Cons

• May not work fully with latest Windows versions
• Some features need tweaking to work properly
• No official support from Microsoft

WinMetro

Pros

• Modern, clean interface
• Touchscreen optimization
• Highly customizable layout
• Seamless Windows Store app integration

Cons

• May not work with all desktop apps
• Limited desktop UI customization
• Requires Windows 8/10

Pricing Comparison

Classic Shell

• Open Source

WinMetro

• Not listed