8StartButton

8StartButton

8StartButton is a free utility that restores the Start button and Start menu in Windows 8 and 8.1, bringing back the familiar interface from previous Windows versions. It adds an extra level of customization options compared to the default Windows 8 Start screen.
8StartButton image
start-menu windows-8 utility

8StartButton: Restore Classic Start Button and Menu

A free utility to restore the Start button and Start menu in Windows 8 and 8.1, offering extra customization options over the default interface.

What is 8StartButton?

8StartButton is a free third-party utility that restores the classic Start button and Start menu in Windows 8 and Windows 8.1. It brings back the familiar interface that was removed with Windows 8, offering users an alternative to the full-screen Start screen.

With 8StartButton installed, users can access a Start menu similar to the one in Windows 7. It contains shortcuts to common apps and locations, along with recently used programs for quick access. The Start button serves as a gateway to this menu.

Beyond just reinstating the Start menu, 8StartButton provides additional customization options. Users can tweak the menu's appearance by changing colors, transparency levels, icon sizes, and more. It's also possible to selectively enable/disable certain modern UI aspects if desired.

Key features of 8StartButton include:

  • Adds Start button and menu for easy program access
  • Fully customizable appearance and function options
  • Lightweight software with low system resource use
  • Compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1 on both 32-bit and 64-bit

For Windows 8/8.1 users who prefer the traditional desktop interface, 8StartButton delivers an exceptional utility for restoring the iconic Start button and menu. With granular controls over the menu's look and feel, it provides a refined Windows 7-esque experience.

8StartButton Features

Features

  1. Restores Start button and Start menu
  2. Adds familiar interface from previous Windows versions
  3. Offers extra customization options compared to default Windows 8 Start screen
  4. Lets you boot directly to desktop instead of Start screen
  5. Lets you resize Start button and change its position
  6. Includes variety of themes and skins for Start menu visuals

Pricing

  • Free

Pros

Free

Easy to use

Adds back useful Start menu

Highly customizable

Lightweight and fast

Cons

Limited features compared to paid Start menu replacements

Occasional bugs or glitches

Some features may not work fully on Windows 8.1

Lacks support or updates


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