Start8 is an application for returning the classic Start button to Windows 8. You can configure the visual appearance of the menu. Several other Modern UI graphical elements are customizable as well.

Main purpose

Windows 8 has an unusual design with tiles and large interface components adapted for touch displays. The standard Start button was removed from the taskbar. This software lets users add the classic menu back.

Multiple visual themes are available. There is a checkbox for disabling menu transparency. The image for the Start button itself can be customized as well. Supported file formats include BMP and PNG.

Like in Start11, you are able to configure advanced visual settings of the Start menu. Options for using the large icons, showing the list of recently opened apps and hiding the account avatar are provided. It is possible to select programs displayed on the right side.

Please note that the free trial version of Start8 will expire 30 days after installation.

Desktop parameters

A checkbox for disabling the Windows 8 hot corner feature is included. Users can hide Modern UI interface elements from the Start menu. There is an option to automatically switch to the desktop after closing any application.

Features

free to download and use;
provides instruments for adding a classic Start menu to Windows 8;
it is possible to adjust the visual appearance of the button;
multiple ModernUI interface components are configurable;
there are options for enabling large icons and hiding the account avatar;
compatible with Windows 8.