📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses options for customizing or replacing the Windows 8 Start menu, with users sharing their experiences and recommendations. kemical introduces Start8 as a paid alternative to default Windows 8, while others advocate for free options like Classic Shell and Pokki, praising their functionality and ease of use. Overall, users express a preference for third-party tools to improve Windows 8 navigation, emphasizing choice and usability.
kemical

kemical

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Thread Author #1
Yes it's true... If you want Windows 8 but don't want the default Start screen then StarDock has created one for you to purchase. How well this will do against the free variants remains to be seen.

Start8 includes:

Windows 7-style Start menu with Windows 8 enhancements
Search for Windows 8-style (Modern UI) apps
Pin desktop and Metro apps
Boot directly to the Windows 8 desktop
Windows 8 Start screen accessible from the Start menu
Click to expand...

You can try the app for free for 30days and can be found here:

Start8 for Windows® 8 - Bringing back the Windows Start menu
 

MikeHawthorne

MikeHawthorne

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#2
Hi

I did try Stardock at one time.

As far as I am concerned nothing works better then Classic Shell.

It gives you the choice of several interfaces including Windows XP.

It works flawlessly, has a lot of options, you can switch to the Windows 8 interface at any time with a click.

It will be the first thing I install when my new computer arrives.

http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/

Mike
 

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davehc

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#3
Have to agree, mike. And the big thing is - its free!!!
 

kemical

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Thread Author #4
I'm sure either works just as well..

The information was posted for users to have at least a choice.

Personally I don't use any third party software and prefer Windows 8 as it comes. I can get around just as quick as any of the former types of start menu but it's what people are used to I suppose...
 

A

Adamsappleone

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#5
kemical

kemical

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Thanks Don. Now even more choice! :) which can only be a good thing..
 

davehc

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#7
Dont forget "Pokki". Rather a different appraoch, but a bit of fun!

https://www.pokki.com/
 

kemical

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Thread Author #8
Not seen this app before now David, nice find...
 

davehc

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#9
Not a lot of customisation, but not really a lot needed.
 

L

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#10
Well, this was the first one I saw, so I bought it and do not regret it. Since I do not have a touch screen this software makes it easy to get where I want to go.
 

Medico

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#11
Today Classic Shell released an update, v3.6.2. It noe includes a menu for the Win 8 Apps on the Classic Shell Start Menu.

Link Removed
 

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