Classic Shell
Classic Shell is one of the trusted and commonly used Start menu replacement for Windows 8. It is free to use and includes skins mimicking the Windows 2000/98, Windows XP, Windows 7 and Vista. You just need to download it from here, install it on your system and you’re done. It is back in your Windows 8 system.
StartIsBack
The name itself speaks all about this program. This program brings the Start Menu back in your Windows 8 Startup screen. The tool looks exactly like the original Start menu we used to see in the earlier operating systems from Microsoft. This program is completely customizable and easy to use. The best part about StartIsBack is that you can also use the Metro Tile Screen of Windows 8 when you want; Classic Shell lacks this feature. The Icon of StartIsBack is also pretty similar to the Windows 7 and thus gives an absolute feel of ‘Start Up Menu’ in earlier Windows version. This program is not free, but is available for a very nominal fee of $3. You can first try the 30 days FREE trial offer of StartIsBack.
Start8
The next program in my list of Start Menu replacements for Windows 8 is Start8 from Startdock. It offers the button in two different tastes. Windows 8-style and Windows 7-style Start menu. Just like StartIsBack, Start8 also isn’t free. Wile there’s a 30-day free trial, you can buy it for $5 which is also quite nominal. Unlike Classic Shell and StartIsBack, the Start8 FREE trial asks for an activation code which is easily obtainable from its official webpage. It is very customizable, where you can even select the size and icon of the Start menu. Have a look at the screenshot below. The program has its own gallery of icons.
Pokki
Pokki is another free Start menu replacement for Windows 8 and replicates much to the Windows 7. Pokki has a clean and simple interface and gives comfortable start to the Windows 8 users. It is similar to Start8. With Pokki you can pin your favorite programs at the task bar.
Among these 4 Start Menu Replacements For Windows 8, StartIsBack is my personal favorite one. Which one do you like to use and spare a few minutes to tell why!
