Windows 11 is often considered a form-over-function release, with its UI changes not significantly enhancing the user experience. Many users find that processes now require more steps, adding to the inconvenience.
In response, third-party developers have been creating alternative skins and UI overhauls. StartAllBack is one such project that you might be familiar with. It aims to achieve design consistency without sacrificing functionality, giving users complete control over their experience.
Having greater control over your UI is a definite advantage. StartAllBack provides easy access to a range of configurations that can change the look and feel of key components in Windows 11, such as the Start Menu, taskbar, and Windows Explorer UI.
The Welcome screen allows users to quickly modify the UI with minimal effort: choose Proper 11 for a modern Windows 11 appearance, Kinda 10 for a nostalgic Windows 10 experience, or Remastered 7 for a classic Windows 7 look.
These options provide a great starting point, each catering to different preferences. If you find something doesn’t meet your needs, the app is highly customizable.
StartAllBack offers extensive control over UI customization. You can adjust menus for the Task Menu, Taskbar, Tray Icons, and Windows Explorer to match your preferences. For example, you can combine a Windows 7-style Start Menu with a Metro-inspired Taskbar. You can also modify Explorer styles and restore Windows 10 ribbons if you prefer them. The customization extends to color options for the taskbar and Start Menu, allowing you to use any shades you like, often resulting in a more appealing look than the default Windows accent colors. Feel free to experiment to find what works best for you.
Features
Restoring and Improving the Taskbar: StartAllBack allows users to display labels on task icons, adjust icon size and margins, reposition the taskbar to various edges, drag and drop items onto the taskbar, center task icons while keeping the Start button on the left, split the taskbar into segments, and utilize dynamic translucency. It also reintroduces corner icons with the Windows 7/10 UI style.
Restoring and Improving the File Explorer UI: The app revamps the ribbon and command bar with translucent effects, places the details pane at the bottom, reinstates the old search box, and supports dark mode for more dialogs.
Restoring and Improving Context Menus: StartAllBack features new rounded acrylic menus with updated fonts, improved touch support, and fast, responsive taskbar menus.
Restoring and Improving the Start Menu: Users can launch apps and access system locations with a single click, navigate dropdown menus effortlessly, and benefit from a fast and reliable search function.
Providing Lightweight Styling and UI Consistency: The app offers styles for the Windows 7, Windows 10, and third-party taskbars and start menus. It also addresses UI inconsistencies in Win32 apps and recolors UI elements across all Windows apps. Additionally, StartAllBack minimizes resource usage, using less RAM and initiating fewer processes.
PROS
- Handy Start Menu Replacement
- Customizable Interface
- Improved Organization Features
- Intuitive Design
- Compatible with Multiple Windows Versions
CONS
- Potential Compatibility Issues
- Premium Features Might Require a Subscription
- May Not Suit Everyone’s Preferences
FAQ’s
What is StartAllBack?
StartAllBack is a third-party application designed to enhance and customize the Windows 11 user interface. It offers various options to modify the Start Menu, taskbar, File Explorer, and context menus, allowing users to tailor their Windows 11 experience to their preferences.
How does StartAllBack improve the taskbar in Windows 11?
StartAllBack enhances the taskbar by allowing users to display labels on task icons, adjust icon size and margins, reposition the taskbar to different edges, and use dynamic translucency. It also supports dragging and dropping items onto the taskbar, centering task icons while keeping the Start button on the left, and splitting the taskbar into segments. Additionally, it reintroduces corner icons similar to those in Windows 7/10.
What changes does StartAllBack make to the File Explorer UI?
StartAllBack revamps the File Explorer UI by adding translucent effects to the ribbon and command bar, placing the details pane at the bottom, restoring the classic search box, and supporting dark mode for more dialogs. These changes aim to improve both the aesthetics and functionality of File Explorer.
How does StartAllBack modify context menus in Windows 11?
The application introduces new rounded acrylic menus with updated fonts, better touch support, and faster, more responsive taskbar menus. These enhancements aim to improve the usability and visual appeal of context menus.
What are the customization options for the Start Menu with StartAllBack?
StartAllBack allows users to launch apps and access system locations with a single click, navigate dropdown menus easily, and enjoy a fast and reliable search function. Users can choose from different styles, such as a Windows 7-like Start Menu or a Metro-inspired design.
Can StartAllBack make Windows 11 look like earlier versions of Windows?
Yes, StartAllBack offers several style options that can mimic earlier versions of Windows. You can select from Proper 11 for a modern look, Kinda 10 for a Windows 10 feel, or Remastered 7 for a classic Windows 7 appearance.
Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using StartAllBack?
While StartAllBack provides extensive customization options, there may be potential compatibility issues with certain applications or system updates. Additionally, some premium features might require a subscription. The app may not meet everyone’s preferences, depending on individual tastes and needs.
Does StartAllBack impact system performance?
StartAllBack is designed to be resource-efficient, using minimal RAM and initiating fewer processes compared to default Windows 11 configurations. This lightweight approach helps maintain system performance while providing customization options.
Conclusion
StartAllBack is a valuable tool for personalizing Windows 11, offering extensive customization options for the Start Menu, taskbar, File Explorer, and context menus. It allows users to recreate the look of earlier Windows versions or tailor the interface to their preferences. While there might be some compatibility issues and premium features may require a subscription, StartAllBack enhances both the look and functionality of Windows 11 with minimal impact on system performance.
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