Back Windows 8.1 - Start Is
: A unique feature for Windows 8.1 that allows the traditional taskbar to remain visible even when accessing the modern Start screen.
One of the best features of Start is Back is its deep customization. Right-click the Start button and select . Here is a breakdown of the tabs:
Furthermore, the developer of Start is Back has released a version for Windows 11 (StartAllBack). But for the pure 8.1 experience, Start is Back remains the king. start is back windows 8.1
If Windows 8.1 is your daily driver for an old laptop, spend the $3. You’ll forget you are on 8.1 within an hour.
: It is incredibly lightweight, requiring no administrator rights to install and running no extra background processes or services. : A unique feature for Windows 8
If you are stuck on 8.1 (due to legacy hardware or software), turns your PC into what Windows 8.1 should have been.
👉 Do you still use Windows 8.1, or have you finally moved to 10/11? Here is a breakdown of the tabs: Furthermore,
Given that Windows 8.1 is past end-of-life, is this article outdated? Not at all. Consider these scenarios:
It includes a highly customizable toolbar for Windows Explorer and allows you to change the Start menu to almost any look you can imagine. 3. Quick Native Tip: Pin Your Most Used Apps
| Feature | | Classic Shell (Open-Shell) | Start8 (Stardock) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Price | $2.99 (one-time) | Free | $4.99 | | RAM Usage | ~1.5 MB | ~15 MB | ~8 MB | | Speed | Instant (native code) | Very fast | Fast | | Windows 8.1 Hot Corners | Fully disables | Requires manual config | Disables | | Boot to Desktop | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Skinning | High (native Aero) | Very high (many skins) | Moderate | | Latest Update | 2020 (final for 8.1) | 2021 (Open-Shell) | Discontinued |
For all these users, the lack of a Start Menu remains a daily frustration. The built-in solution—pinning everything to the taskbar or using third-party launchers—is inadequate. solves this permanently.