0:21 Sorry to rant here, but I'm actually really fed up with this trend that countless companies have been following the last several years: companies deciding that they're going to just flat-out ignore what the customer wants and instead will DECIDE for the customer. No longer does a business have the attitude of: "What are customers demanding? What do they want? Okay, let's give that to them." Now it's just: "Nah, you guys don't know what you want. We're gonna give you this instead. Yeah, we know you didn't ask for that and most of you actually hate this. But this is what you're getting. You're gonna like it, don't worry about it." Countless companies are like this now and it really needs to end. End rant. I apologize.
If you look at the timeline, I think companies were always kinda like this, but didn't have as many crafty ideas or a clear means to do so. That, plus the focus has shifted over the years from delivering the best product to harvesting the most user data and forcing people to use certain things. So yeah... rant all you like.
Exact reason why I moved over to Linux on my laptop and LineageOS on my phone and tablet. I am done with being told what I want or need and being spied on.
@@teksyndicate i think you hit the nail on the head- Microsoft would have done this type of thing two decades ago had they known a way to automate bloat based on harvested user data the way they do now. I think the exponential creep of invasive and manipulative adverstising in the digital space is to blame. Ever since current giants like Facebook and Google began to profit off of pushing ads everywhere they could on their sites, it became an arms race to see how much they could earn from offering corporate monoliths more and more ways to market their products as aggressively as possible, because when you make all of your profit from the marketers running ads in your site, you don't need a **satisfied** customer base, you just need a large one. And when you get big enough, you don't need to worry about competition if you can artificially influence your customers to stay with you. For big business, the end goal has always been profit; if you don't have to provide a good product/service to make that desired bottom line, why put in the extra effort to make something good when the money is still there? Minimum effort : maximum reward, late stage exploitative capitalism at its finest.
I'm partial to Open Shell. Started with Classic Shell years ago. then when the developer of Classic turned it over to the new team and they rebranded it as Open Shell I stayed with it. The main reason I have stuck with Open Shell is that I can save a current setup as am XML file and load it to another computer and be up and running in seconds. That comes in extremely handy when you support as many Non Prophets as I do (as a volunteer) and have older volunteers that can't figure out the Fisher Price Start MS ships with 8, 10, or 11. Greatly reduces the amount of support calls., plus it's free.
@@mikeadams8027 You really owe it to yourself and those you build computers for to switch to Open Shell. It's considerably better and actually much easier to install on Windows 11. Plus it gets updated necessary. Sticking with Classic Shell is like sticking with Windows Vista.
I finally upgraded to windows 11 over the weekend and while I can do all my work stuff, the interface is so inefficient and slow to navigate... this video has saved my sanity!
I just may un-rollback to Eleven. I rolled back from Eleven no less than six times, since Eleven escaped from the pits of Hell. I keep going back to Ten. With these options I think I will give Eleven a try again. I just hated the inefficient Explorer, lack of proper Explorer ribbon, system freezes, and the Gestapo/Mafia like lockdown of the task bar, as well as the overall Vista-like performance. Every time I installed Eleven, I'd die a little inside.
Openshell really looks like it hasn't had an update since I first tried it. While Start11 and StartAllBack are focusing on two different things. 11 focuses on the start menu designs, while AllBack focuses more on the consistency and function
I have been using Startback10 (The Windows 10 version of Startallback) for a few years now. I got my daughter Startallback for her laptop. I always forget I even use it and when I go to a vanilla Windows 10 or 11 install I always have my mind blown thinking that's what the majority of people use. When I do finally upgrade my Windows (probably when 12 comes out) I'll look into any upgrades to Open-Shell. I love customization and I wish Windows would just copy KDE Plasma already.
I personally use StartAllBack, in fact I switched from OpenShell (which I started using as Classic Shell back at the dawn of Microsoft's inaugural dumpster fire UX shift that came with the dreaded Windows 8) OpenShell is also very very nice but I prefer StartAllBack's GUI and the way it fixes Explorer and the Taskbar instead- the "segmented" taskbar is one of my favorite options, in fact I was doing something similar with my DE's taskbar on Linux before I learned of StartAllBack from a TekSyndicate video several years ago. Thanks for doing these vids, this is the holy grail of Windows PC videos for IT gods and power users
I watch a lot of You Tube. Over time you can sense plain speakers vs. Company men. Thanks. Your quote on the start button as another method for companies to push their message is spot on.
I use Startallback in my Win11 laptop and classic shell in my Win10 gaming rig. Why Microsoft hates its users? Everyone agrees Win7 was the best UI. I understand why people hate Windows, because of the start menu. But it's a simple fix
Been using Classic Start Menu since Windows 8 was released. Will keep installing it on every new Windows they release. I cannot stand the "updated" start menu.
So glad I found Start11. Great program and gave me my Win10 start menu back. Although I have to admit the old Windows XP start menu and fill out menu's gave me a nostalgic twinkle in my eye.
I might be in a minority, but the deal-breaker in W11 vs W10 for me, was that I put my taskbar on the right. It's much more efficient to go back and forth from side to top (for Windows task bar to app menus) vs. bottom to top. I think StartAllBack is the only one that offers this side taskbar, but could be wrong.
I use Startallback. It does a bit of everything without being too much, and while it costs money, it doesn't have a DRM like Stardock to limit the amount of active installs.
I've been using StartAllBack on a couple of PC's, but with all new systems I've just been making the tweaks manually in the registry. Nothing to install that way. So, did ya win the race? You must've been doing 200mph here 😁. You were too fast for my eyes to keep up. Cheers 🍻
I am using startisback set window 7 with coloured transparent taskbar matching the wallpaper on my laptop. The desktop looks so clean and not corporate and it feels so comforting for some reason.
Very much enjoyed your video! Concise and quick paced! I like how you netted it out in the end.... Try StartAllBack first... if you don't like it, then try using both Open-Shell in conjunction with Start11. Nicely stated! Just the advise I was looking for!
I’m using Start11 and have it setup so that when I hit the start button the menu opens with folders and tabs. You can add/remove programs to the folders or folder tabs and customise the look of the folders. IMO it’s the best.
I always use OpenShell, ever since Windows 7 I have not liked the start menu style so I have a windows 98 style start menu with only the things I need in it.
Start11 has fit the bill for me. I really like the search, and I didn't want to tweak anything beyond the start menu and the taskbar size/transparency. I like being able to set everything up in just a few minutes then forget about it.
It might be Microsofts fault and not Stardock, but for the last few weeks the taskbar/startmenu takes an age to appear at boot. I had to disable Start11 and Realtek Audio Service from opening in msconfig and both stock start menu + Explorer Patcher (my preference) work just fine.
Just a gentle reminder that Linux has gotten really really good in the last two years. I play all my games no problem with steams proton compatibility layer. I know Linux isn't for everyone. But if your going far enough to change entire pieces of the windows OS because you don't like it, it might be time to give Linux a legitimate try.
Linux has indeed changed a lot. After switching from Windows 10 to Kubuntu 4 months ago, using my system stopped being a chore. Linux is not for everyone, but more people should consider giving it a try.
I don't wanna speak for Logan, but I think he's mentioned that he stays on windows for certain creative/productivity software that just doesn't work on Linux and he doesn't want to make any big changes to his work flow, which is understandable. Not bashing Linux at all, been daily driving Mint since 2018 and I'm super happy with it. That said, some people just need certain software that only works on certain OSes for their work. It sucks that people's choices are limited by that, but I get it.
@@sleepyopossum3200 That's it. I run debian 12 on my laptop... and it's awesome... but it just does not support my creative software at all. Otherwise, modding games is way more difficult, and I love modding.
Start11 for me. I personally loved the Win10 menu and its start tiles, as it gives a lot of upfront shortcuts right on the start menu. The Win11 start menu is an abomination, only beaten out for worst Start Menu by Win8. Eurgh.
I have flat out detested how Microsoft has messed around with the Start Menu since Win7. I completely skipped Win8 due to this, and have been using Classic Shell/Open Shell since I had to eventually move to Win10. I can't think of a UI that I can't stand more than Win11's, so I am very grateful to the developers of Open Shell and ExplorerPatcher for allowing me to move the entire UI that I've customized and am used to over to the 'modern' OS.
I've been using Open Shell since finding out about Classic Shell but Start11 looks like a nice option to bring KDE/Cinnamon style start menu to Windows 10/11 but for me, you can't beat the FOSS choice.
this comment is a personal vote. I love your content, love this type of content, and would like to assist in your battle with the algorithm gods. Praise talos
I bought my first own PC 2018 and haven't activated Windows since. I have a black homescreen background and the little watermark in the corner and I don't really care about it. I am not willing to pay money towards Microdog. Maybe I switch to Linux soon. My parents run Linux on their machines, but I game sometimes and don't want the hassle of some games not running. This issue won't be relevant much longer and then I will transition to Linux and be happy. I hope to spare myself from the AI lunacy woven into the next Windows. I still run Windows 10, but how long am I going to ditch AI feature on Windows? Let's assume they also push some on Windows 11 users. I would be forced to transition next years. Let's hope for the best.
AMazing video that I didn't think could be any better after the explorer video but the explorer vid coupled with this shell video is actual bona-fide useful computing knowledge for newbs and advanced techies alike. So glad to see you up and running with top level content once again Logan!
I like explorer patcher but I have had Windows updates break it numerous times. It is pretty annoying. Or it crashes and to get things back to normal I have to reboot. Love that it is free but it does come at a cost. At least on Windows 11.
That's all well and good, but do any of those allow me to put the windows 11 taskbar at the top of the screen. I've been using as top screen taskbar Windows XP, I prefer it that way, I'm not really sure why but it makes more sense to me.
open shell with explorer patcher is amazing together, you can change everything the way you want your taskbar and start menu to be and if you wanted to, your File Explorer as well
i personally use both startallaback and open shell but its kinda frustrating with the occasional bugginess and the inability to change the taskbar texture for SAB,and with explorerpatcher being partially discontinued with the 10 taskbar being delyeeted from 24h2 unfortunately i may have to switch that for startallback at some point if i ever have to really update SAB start menu kinda...sucks compared to classic shells
Open-Shell caused some annoying startup problems, I was used to instant booting but when I used this at first wasn't a problem after awhile it started causing me to take 5+ mins for a bootup whereas without this the login is instant.
I noticed this channel has some Linux content from years ago, are you (or some channel contributors) still using it? I liked the Windows XP start menu. I replaced Windows 10 with Linux, it was free. Only thing I miss is the easy multiplayer gaming, I've spent much less time waiting around for updates.
Windows has limited so many small workflow items for me that it's borderline unusable. At least openshell brings back some usability. Had to revert back to windows 10. May have to go the Linux route in the future.
I've tried all of these and I much prefer StartIsBack ... that's the windows 10 version of StartAllBack I kinda miss the old shell replacements like LiteStep from back in the day...but I guess that's never coming back so start menu replacement is the best we can get now.
To me Open Shell is the best, especially because it is the only one that gives me a Windows XP style. The only worry is that is not so frequently maintained as the other two. In second place: StartAllBack. They even give you a 100 days trial period. And the options are pretty good too. And it is not a resources hog as Start11
I am reinstall windows 10 many time facing issue windows 10 automatic repair loop. My PC keep restart computer All this time drive me crazy please help me
I installed that on windows 8 I think it was? and it changes the task manager and made it so I couldn't get into a feature that you can only access from the original task manager so it kind of sucked. I think that was Open shell.
They really went to war with startallback. Windows 11 decided to break it for us. THEN (I know, I know, no one has to tell me) Chrome blocks startallback from downloading whatsoever. Insane
I may purchase StartAllBack, but I just hate DRM. I wish more companies would go the route LaunchBox uses, but I also understand that it's old-school and easier to be taken advantage of.
Your videos have helped me (new PC user) a bunch! However, I still feel like my new laptop is cluttered with unneeded crap and running unneeded processes (I get a spinning blue wheel quite often, while doing nothing). It makes me feel like the machine ($1,500 laptop) is bogged down. The video you did on using a local account was helpful, until I made the mistake of signing into Xbox, which apparently forced my device into using a Microsoft account. 🤦♂️ I’m not loving the switch from Mac so far. 😬 Can anyone help?! 🙏
I don't really use the start menu or start menu alternatives. I just use Powertoys Run I also hide the taskbar and almost completely ignore it. Instead, I use task view and virtual desktops/workspaces Making my system look thoroughly like Windows 7 might be fun nostalgia trip. For daily use, I use Gnome on Nobara Linux with a bunch of extensions. Maybe I'll switch to KDE if Plasma 6 is good.
The thing is, we have no idea how long are they gonna keep around the code for old start menu and taskbar. They might delete all of it tomorrow for all we know, and then none of these apps will work
I'm curious how often you actually use the Start Menu? When I was on Windows, I pinned all my frequent programs to the task and really had no reason to ever open the Start Menu. The last time I felt it was necessary was in the XP era. The Start Menu's introduction in Windows 95 was iconic, but it feels like it's become less useful over the years as the UI has improved. A relic from the past, if you will.
I use it to directly access the legacy control panel stuff a lot. It's quicker to click then type into search then figure out which one is the right thing to click. I also use it for about 100 game shortcuts... This is handy since many see installed outside of steam... Lastly, I pin stuff to it because the task bar gets cluttered
I don't really care at all what the Start Menu looks like from a functionality standpoint, as I just hit the Super key and start typing what I want when I want to launch something, whether I'm on Windows or Linux or Mac (though in Mac and certain Linux DEs / WMs it will be a different key combo), because that's way more efficient than drilling down into hierarchical menus with a mouse. I do like the tweaks to explorer though so I'd probably use one of these and just make it stick with the Win 11 start menu as I think it looks nice. They basically ripped off DeepIn.
@@teksyndicate No. I think back then I hadn’t realized you could do anything like that yet, so I was using the mouse. I think I started using the search and launch method in Vista or 7, and after that I asked myself, “How did you ever live without this?”
You should have pointed out, which program allows a vertical taskbar since win11 locked that by default - which is awful for a 32:9 ultra widescreen that is 49". Who needs a 120cm taskbar?! Win11 sucks!
Honestly with as much modifying the user interface as you do, why not just use Linux with the KDE plasma desktop? Linux gaming is so good these days and no need to "debloat" windows or deal with its built in Spyware and ads
Yep, that's how I fixed my computer a few weeks ago -- I installed Nobara. Pretty happy with it, and it helps me reinforce my Linux knowledge. Double win in my book.
I'll make a video on this soon... but the software is the issue. I use FL Studio to make music and it's the most important piece of software that I have. I can kinda get it working in Linux, but the plugins do not work. Beyond that, my favorite program for listening to music is Foobar 2000, and they don't have a linux version. I installed the flatpack that comes with wine, but my js panels don't work at all... and getting it to read music from my nas was not fun to say the least. The last major thing, is that I tinker with games... I mod them, fix old games to work on ultrawide or modern games to work on a CRT, etc. This stuff is nearly impossible on Linux. So, while I have to fuss for 15 minutes to install a Windows start menu and such, I have to fuss for 30 hours to get Linux to use the programs I rely on... I wish those programs would come to Linux... and I wish modding games was easier.
@teksyndicate I'd love to see you do a linux video. I haven't used music making software in many years so I'm not sure what options there are, and I'm not sure if you'd be open to alternatives on music players (I use jellyfin for my music). For game modding protontricks has been great, aside from manual modding depending on the game. I'm very surprised by the amount of tools and launchers thare are available for Linux now.
I used a recent w10/11 menu when instaling an actual office onto my brothers girlfriend'a laptop, and boy that thing is a scam, you have to hit the tiny open button to launch a program thats already on your PC. Glad I stayed on win 7. But sure newer software wont always install here and i gave up on AAA games for old HW reasons. In my previous work we used classicshell on windows 10 for the 7 lookalike start menu.
Then why are you watching a video about Windows? I'm on Linux MX now (daily driver since January) but still appreciate these Windows customization videos.
0:21 Sorry to rant here, but I'm actually really fed up with this trend that countless companies have been following the last several years: companies deciding that they're going to just flat-out ignore what the customer wants and instead will DECIDE for the customer. No longer does a business have the attitude of: "What are customers demanding? What do they want? Okay, let's give that to them." Now it's just: "Nah, you guys don't know what you want. We're gonna give you this instead. Yeah, we know you didn't ask for that and most of you actually hate this. But this is what you're getting. You're gonna like it, don't worry about it."
Countless companies are like this now and it really needs to end. End rant. I apologize.
If you look at the timeline, I think companies were always kinda like this, but didn't have as many crafty ideas or a clear means to do so. That, plus the focus has shifted over the years from delivering the best product to harvesting the most user data and forcing people to use certain things. So yeah... rant all you like.
One of the latest example is what Blizzard did with D4. What a shame.
Exact reason why I moved over to Linux on my laptop and LineageOS on my phone and tablet. I am done with being told what I want or need and being spied on.
@@teksyndicate i think you hit the nail on the head- Microsoft would have done this type of thing two decades ago had they known a way to automate bloat based on harvested user data the way they do now.
I think the exponential creep of invasive and manipulative adverstising in the digital space is to blame. Ever since current giants like Facebook and Google began to profit off of pushing ads everywhere they could on their sites, it became an arms race to see how much they could earn from offering corporate monoliths more and more ways to market their products as aggressively as possible, because when you make all of your profit from the marketers running ads in your site, you don't need a **satisfied** customer base, you just need a large one. And when you get big enough, you don't need to worry about competition if you can artificially influence your customers to stay with you.
For big business, the end goal has always been profit; if you don't have to provide a good product/service to make that desired bottom line, why put in the extra effort to make something good when the money is still there? Minimum effort : maximum reward, late stage exploitative capitalism at its finest.
Enshittification
I'm partial to Open Shell. Started with Classic Shell years ago. then when the developer of Classic turned it over to the new team and they rebranded it as Open Shell I stayed with it. The main reason I have stuck with Open Shell is that I can save a current setup as am XML file and load it to another computer and be up and running in seconds. That comes in extremely handy when you support as many Non Prophets as I do (as a volunteer) and have older volunteers that can't figure out the Fisher Price Start MS ships with 8, 10, or 11. Greatly reduces the amount of support calls., plus it's free.
I still install Classic Shell on every Windows 10 pc that I build.
@@mikeadams8027 You really owe it to yourself and those you build computers for to switch to Open Shell. It's considerably better and actually much easier to install on Windows 11. Plus it gets updated necessary. Sticking with Classic Shell is like sticking with Windows Vista.
I finally upgraded to windows 11 over the weekend and while I can do all my work stuff, the interface is so inefficient and slow to navigate... this video has saved my sanity!
I just may un-rollback to Eleven. I rolled back from Eleven no less than six times, since Eleven escaped from the pits of Hell. I keep going back to Ten. With these options I think I will give Eleven a try again. I just hated the inefficient Explorer, lack of proper Explorer ribbon, system freezes, and the Gestapo/Mafia like lockdown of the task bar, as well as the overall Vista-like performance. Every time I installed Eleven, I'd die a little inside.
Openshell really looks like it hasn't had an update since I first tried it.
While Start11 and StartAllBack are focusing on two different things. 11 focuses on the start menu designs, while AllBack focuses more on the consistency and function
I have been using Startback10 (The Windows 10 version of Startallback) for a few years now. I got my daughter Startallback for her laptop.
I always forget I even use it and when I go to a vanilla Windows 10 or 11 install I always have my mind blown thinking that's what the majority of people use. When I do finally upgrade my Windows (probably when 12 comes out) I'll look into any upgrades to Open-Shell. I love customization and I wish Windows would just copy KDE Plasma already.
I personally use StartAllBack, in fact I switched from OpenShell (which I started using as Classic Shell back at the dawn of Microsoft's inaugural dumpster fire UX shift that came with the dreaded Windows 8)
OpenShell is also very very nice but I prefer StartAllBack's GUI and the way it fixes Explorer and the Taskbar instead- the "segmented" taskbar is one of my favorite options, in fact I was doing something similar with my DE's taskbar on Linux before I learned of StartAllBack from a TekSyndicate video several years ago.
Thanks for doing these vids, this is the holy grail of Windows PC videos for IT gods and power users
I still remember when I was told that it was the linux users that were the masochists. Oh how the times have changed.
Using classic shell/Open shell since windows 8 and never looked back. 😊
The first thing i do with a fresh install is set the start menu back to the left. I hate the new default center mode.
Yes!
ok lol
Now if one of these will allow for the SM to be on any of the 4 sides of the screen instead of just the bottom, then that'd be great.
Yoooooo throwback - cool you’re still out here man 🎉❤
I watch a lot of You Tube. Over time you can sense plain speakers vs. Company men. Thanks. Your quote on the start button as another method for companies to push their message is spot on.
I use Startallback in my Win11 laptop and classic shell in my Win10 gaming rig. Why Microsoft hates its users? Everyone agrees Win7 was the best UI. I understand why people hate Windows, because of the start menu. But it's a simple fix
Been using Classic Start Menu since Windows 8 was released. Will keep installing it on every new Windows they release. I cannot stand the "updated" start menu.
So glad I found Start11. Great program and gave me my Win10 start menu back. Although I have to admit the old Windows XP start menu and fill out menu's gave me a nostalgic twinkle in my eye.
Open shell for the win! Been using since I left W7 and never looking back! Using during W8 now W10 and also when moving to the next Windows.
I might be in a minority, but the deal-breaker in W11 vs W10 for me, was that I put my taskbar on the right. It's much more efficient to go back and forth from side to top (for Windows task bar to app menus) vs. bottom to top. I think StartAllBack is the only one that offers this side taskbar, but could be wrong.
I use Startallback. It does a bit of everything without being too much, and while it costs money, it doesn't have a DRM like Stardock to limit the amount of active installs.
I've been using StartAllBack on a couple of PC's, but with all new systems I've just been making the tweaks manually in the registry. Nothing to install that way.
So, did ya win the race? You must've been doing 200mph here 😁. You were too fast for my eyes to keep up.
Cheers 🍻
Are you.. by chance... running this on a mini pc?
Love this video, Do any of these things integrate "Search Everything"? Or do you run that separately (or at all)?
I am using startisback set window 7 with coloured transparent taskbar matching the wallpaper on my laptop. The desktop looks so clean and not corporate and it feels so comforting for some reason.
Very much enjoyed your video! Concise and quick paced! I like how you netted it out in the end.... Try StartAllBack first... if you don't like it, then try using both Open-Shell in conjunction with Start11. Nicely stated! Just the advise I was looking for!
I’m using Start11 and have it setup so that when I hit the start button the menu opens with folders and tabs. You can add/remove programs to the folders or folder tabs and customise the look of the folders. IMO it’s the best.
I always use OpenShell, ever since Windows 7 I have not liked the start menu style so I have a windows 98 style start menu with only the things I need in it.
As much as I loved the Win7 SM, I did adapt to the Win10 SM and would prefer to stay there at this point.
Thanks I still miss that classic windows 7 Start menu so much but at least we can always fix it
Start11 has fit the bill for me. I really like the search, and I didn't want to tweak anything beyond the start menu and the taskbar size/transparency. I like being able to set everything up in just a few minutes then forget about it.
It might be Microsofts fault and not Stardock, but for the last few weeks the taskbar/startmenu takes an age to appear at boot. I had to disable Start11 and Realtek Audio Service from opening in msconfig and both stock start menu + Explorer Patcher (my preference) work just fine.
7:42: I love how they got the same exact phrase from the Windows 98 Commercial... 🤔🤔😮😮😊😊
All these options should be built in windows
Just a gentle reminder that Linux has gotten really really good in the last two years. I play all my games no problem with steams proton compatibility layer. I know Linux isn't for everyone. But if your going far enough to change entire pieces of the windows OS because you don't like it, it might be time to give Linux a legitimate try.
Linux has indeed changed a lot. After switching from Windows 10 to Kubuntu 4 months ago, using my system stopped being a chore. Linux is not for everyone, but more people should consider giving it a try.
I don't wanna speak for Logan, but I think he's mentioned that he stays on windows for certain creative/productivity software that just doesn't work on Linux and he doesn't want to make any big changes to his work flow, which is understandable. Not bashing Linux at all, been daily driving Mint since 2018 and I'm super happy with it. That said, some people just need certain software that only works on certain OSes for their work. It sucks that people's choices are limited by that, but I get it.
@@sleepyopossum3200 That's it. I run debian 12 on my laptop... and it's awesome... but it just does not support my creative software at all. Otherwise, modding games is way more difficult, and I love modding.
Idk but Nvidia support sucks my gpu rant won’t spin at 100%load on linux mint.😢
Linux is great for people that are obsessed with Linux. If you just want something to run programs windows is your only option.
Start11 for me. I personally loved the Win10 menu and its start tiles, as it gives a lot of upfront shortcuts right on the start menu. The Win11 start menu is an abomination, only beaten out for worst Start Menu by Win8. Eurgh.
Very nice video to see how all 3 generally work and look. Thanks!
I have flat out detested how Microsoft has messed around with the Start Menu since Win7. I completely skipped Win8 due to this, and have been using Classic Shell/Open Shell since I had to eventually move to Win10. I can't think of a UI that I can't stand more than Win11's, so I am very grateful to the developers of Open Shell and ExplorerPatcher for allowing me to move the entire UI that I've customized and am used to over to the 'modern' OS.
I've been using Open Shell since finding out about Classic Shell but Start11 looks like a nice option to bring KDE/Cinnamon style start menu to Windows 10/11 but for me, you can't beat the FOSS choice.
this comment is a personal vote.
I love your content, love this type of content, and would like to assist in your battle with the algorithm gods. Praise talos
I bought my first own PC 2018 and haven't activated Windows since. I have a black homescreen background and the little watermark in the corner and I don't really care about it. I am not willing to pay money towards Microdog. Maybe I switch to Linux soon. My parents run Linux on their machines, but I game sometimes and don't want the hassle of some games not running. This issue won't be relevant much longer and then I will transition to Linux and be happy. I hope to spare myself from the AI lunacy woven into the next Windows. I still run Windows 10, but how long am I going to ditch AI feature on Windows? Let's assume they also push some on Windows 11 users. I would be forced to transition next years. Let's hope for the best.
AMazing video that I didn't think could be any better after the explorer video but the explorer vid coupled with this shell video is actual bona-fide useful computing knowledge for newbs and advanced techies alike.
So glad to see you up and running with top level content once again Logan!
I like explorer patcher but I have had Windows updates break it numerous times. It is pretty annoying. Or it crashes and to get things back to normal I have to reboot. Love that it is free but it does come at a cost. At least on Windows 11.
I am so doing this! Thanks, Logan!
That's all well and good, but do any of those allow me to put the windows 11 taskbar at the top of the screen. I've been using as top screen taskbar Windows XP, I prefer it that way, I'm not really sure why but it makes more sense to me.
You can do this with Explorer Patcher.
@@teksyndicateexcellent!! Thanks!!
open shell with explorer patcher is amazing together, you can change everything the way you want your taskbar and start menu to be and if you wanted to, your File Explorer as well
i personally use both startallaback and open shell but its kinda frustrating with the occasional bugginess and the inability to change the taskbar texture for SAB,and with explorerpatcher being partially discontinued with the 10 taskbar being delyeeted from 24h2 unfortunately i may have to switch that for startallback at some point if i ever have to really update
SAB start menu kinda...sucks compared to classic shells
Open-Shell caused some annoying startup problems, I was used to instant booting but when I used this at first wasn't a problem after awhile it started causing me to take 5+ mins for a bootup whereas without this the login is instant.
Long Live CALMIRA II
Why Does Everyone Forget the WinXP Zune Theme. That was D0pe
@@GreatLordEli Yessir!
Install Win32s so you get half-arsed 32-bit support, Including FreeCell!!!
I noticed this channel has some Linux content from years ago, are you (or some channel contributors) still using it?
I liked the Windows XP start menu.
I replaced Windows 10 with Linux, it was free. Only thing I miss is the easy multiplayer gaming, I've spent much less time waiting around for updates.
I have Debian 12 with plasma on my laptop... And I have several Linux vms running, but I can't use it on my main rig.
Easy to follow vids. My set up looks just like I want thanks!
Windows has limited so many small workflow items for me that it's borderline unusable. At least openshell brings back some usability. Had to revert back to windows 10. May have to go the Linux route in the future.
I've tried all of these and I much prefer StartIsBack ... that's the windows 10 version of StartAllBack
I kinda miss the old shell replacements like LiteStep from back in the day...but I guess that's never coming back so start menu replacement is the best we can get now.
To me Open Shell is the best, especially because it is the only one that gives me a Windows XP style. The only worry is that is not so frequently maintained as the other two.
In second place: StartAllBack. They even give you a 100 days trial period. And the options are pretty good too. And it is not a resources hog as Start11
what font do you guys use in your videos?
In the video: Ac437 Wyse700a-2y
For the thumbnail: DIN 1451
@@teksyndicate Thanks
I am reinstall windows 10 many time facing issue windows 10 automatic repair loop. My PC keep restart computer All this time drive me crazy please help me
im Happy that Start11 exist, highly recommended 👌👌
I went off start11 when they tried to charge me 5 dollars for an update, it didn't seem that major either
I installed that on windows 8 I think it was? and it changes the task manager and made it so I couldn't get into a feature that you can only access from the original task manager so it kind of sucked. I think that was Open shell.
They really went to war with startallback. Windows 11 decided to break it for us. THEN (I know, I know, no one has to tell me) Chrome blocks startallback from downloading whatsoever. Insane
thing i dint like is how they are hiding the old way of finding Device manager and control panel . the new way is so way confusing for me
Legend, well done in informing us about these l33t apps.
Where can I find that wallpaper?
Did you find it?
I may purchase StartAllBack, but I just hate DRM. I wish more companies would go the route LaunchBox uses, but I also understand that it's old-school and easier to be taken advantage of.
You don't need to purchase it, if you know the trial reset trick.
Who doesn't just pin the stuff they use all the time to the taskbar and then use start/search for the uncommonly used stuff?
Can you move the taskbar over to the left edge (or right or top) like Windows 10 and earlier, use to let you do?
ExplorerPatcher lets you do this.
@@S.A.S.H.I found the video so I'll watch it.
If you don’t mind share the wallpaper they are beautiful and amazing
Your videos have helped me (new PC user) a bunch!
However, I still feel like my new laptop is cluttered with unneeded crap and running unneeded processes (I get a spinning blue wheel quite often, while doing nothing). It makes me feel like the machine ($1,500 laptop) is bogged down.
The video you did on using a local account was helpful, until I made the mistake of signing into Xbox, which apparently forced my device into using a Microsoft account. 🤦♂️
I’m not loving the switch from Mac so far. 😬 Can anyone help?! 🙏
try turning off things that run on startup
using StartAllBack only for mini taskbar feature
ive been using this stuff for so long now, but im unable to install anything like this on the PCs I use at work, its so infuriating lol
Does start all back work with explorer patcher in window 11 or 10
Absolutely
I don't really use the start menu or start menu alternatives. I just use Powertoys Run
I also hide the taskbar and almost completely ignore it. Instead, I use task view and virtual desktops/workspaces
Making my system look thoroughly like Windows 7 might be fun nostalgia trip. For daily use, I use Gnome on Nobara Linux with a bunch of extensions. Maybe I'll switch to KDE if Plasma 6 is good.
The thing is, we have no idea how long are they gonna keep around the code for old start menu and taskbar. They might delete all of it tomorrow for all we know, and then none of these apps will work
Just don't update. I use one of the first versions of 10 with updates blocked.
I'm curious how often you actually use the Start Menu? When I was on Windows, I pinned all my frequent programs to the task and really had no reason to ever open the Start Menu. The last time I felt it was necessary was in the XP era. The Start Menu's introduction in Windows 95 was iconic, but it feels like it's become less useful over the years as the UI has improved. A relic from the past, if you will.
I use it to directly access the legacy control panel stuff a lot. It's quicker to click then type into search then figure out which one is the right thing to click. I also use it for about 100 game shortcuts... This is handy since many see installed outside of steam... Lastly, I pin stuff to it because the task bar gets cluttered
@@teksyndicate Do you stll use god mode?
Windows 11 Enterprise IoT is the best version of Windows 11,i like it. I use windhawk mods for customization.
Been using StartisBack basically since I upgraded to 10.
Win 7 : start menu fine.
Win 8 : start menu fail.
Win 10 : start menu fine.
Win 11 : start menu fail.
Microsoft just playing around.
I don't really care at all what the Start Menu looks like from a functionality standpoint, as I just hit the Super key and start typing what I want when I want to launch something, whether I'm on Windows or Linux or Mac (though in Mac and certain Linux DEs / WMs it will be a different key combo), because that's way more efficient than drilling down into hierarchical menus with a mouse.
I do like the tweaks to explorer though so I'd probably use one of these and just make it stick with the Win 11 start menu as I think it looks nice. They basically ripped off DeepIn.
Did you used to use Launchy on Windows XP?
@@teksyndicate No. I think back then I hadn’t realized you could do anything like that yet, so I was using the mouse. I think I started using the search and launch method in Vista or 7, and after that I asked myself, “How did you ever live without this?”
I've been using Start11 since it was Start8.
Great video, cheers!
do u know WPD, if not u should do a video about it. windows privacy dashboard. wpd app
Fist Start Menu started with Windows 95
Start11 will be the only one, which will not be blocked by Microsoft on Win11 24H2.
YAY!!!
You should have pointed out, which program allows a vertical taskbar since win11 locked that by default - which is awful for a 32:9 ultra widescreen that is 49". Who needs a 120cm taskbar?! Win11 sucks!
Honestly with as much modifying the user interface as you do, why not just use Linux with the KDE plasma desktop? Linux gaming is so good these days and no need to "debloat" windows or deal with its built in Spyware and ads
Yep, that's how I fixed my computer a few weeks ago -- I installed Nobara. Pretty happy with it, and it helps me reinforce my Linux knowledge. Double win in my book.
I'll make a video on this soon... but the software is the issue. I use FL Studio to make music and it's the most important piece of software that I have. I can kinda get it working in Linux, but the plugins do not work. Beyond that, my favorite program for listening to music is Foobar 2000, and they don't have a linux version. I installed the flatpack that comes with wine, but my js panels don't work at all... and getting it to read music from my nas was not fun to say the least. The last major thing, is that I tinker with games... I mod them, fix old games to work on ultrawide or modern games to work on a CRT, etc. This stuff is nearly impossible on Linux. So, while I have to fuss for 15 minutes to install a Windows start menu and such, I have to fuss for 30 hours to get Linux to use the programs I rely on... I wish those programs would come to Linux... and I wish modding games was easier.
@teksyndicate I'd love to see you do a linux video. I haven't used music making software in many years so I'm not sure what options there are, and I'm not sure if you'd be open to alternatives on music players (I use jellyfin for my music). For game modding protontricks has been great, aside from manual modding depending on the game. I'm very surprised by the amount of tools and launchers thare are available for Linux now.
StartAllBack Will Be Blocked In Windows 11 24H2 Cannot Use Any Customization Tools In Windows 11 24H2.
Linux Mint with stark menu goes hard
If only it supported my software. I love Debian on my laptop... but yeah.
Open shell
Correct
Start 11 team are greedy.. stop working on that one,. and starting with Start 11 V2...
That’s why I stopped using it
This is fucking awesome, thank you.
Hell yeah, cheers!
StartMenuX rocks!
startallback is goated
great info but you talk really really fast and its hard to keep up
Hey im a developer im going to be releasing my script soon that allows me to use my keyboard fkr everything i hope youll check it out 1.5 is online
I have links turned off, but what's it called? I'll look it up
should checkout windhawk
Funny, I find it infinitely easier to just ignore windows altogether
If only my software worked...
Too bad Microsoft killed this
im on stock Windows 10
I used a recent w10/11 menu when instaling an actual office onto my brothers girlfriend'a laptop, and boy that thing is a scam, you have to hit the tiny open button to launch a program thats already on your PC. Glad I stayed on win 7. But sure newer software wont always install here and i gave up on AAA games for old HW reasons.
In my previous work we used classicshell on windows 10 for the 7 lookalike start menu.
Hi
stardock is scummy
I didn't realize they had done anything. I'll look into it.
yeah no ill keep the windows 11 start menu, you guys are nostalgia crybabies lol
thumb down-linux user here
I wonder where all the linux users are. I wish they would say something... oh well.
Then why are you watching a video about Windows? I'm on Linux MX now (daily driver since January) but still appreciate these Windows customization videos.