Windows 11 has garnered praise as one of Microsoft’s most refined operating systems, yet it has also faced criticism for certain regressions compared to its predecessors. Among the various tools available to enhance the Windows experience, ExplorerPatcher stands out as a compelling option for users seeking to restore familiar features.
Having explored several paid alternatives like Start11 and StartAllBack, I found myself hesitant to invest in software that may not justify its cost. In contrast, ExplorerPatcher offers a free solution that effectively revives key elements such as the Start menu and taskbar, prompting me to wonder why I had not adopted it sooner.
The Windows 10 Start Menu: A Familiar Friend
One of the most significant advantages of ExplorerPatcher is its ability to bring back the Windows 10 Start menu. While the Windows 11 version is functional, many users, including myself, find the previous layout to be more efficient. The Windows 10 Start menu’s pinned area was fully resizable, providing ample space for applications. Although large live tiles were often criticized, when minimized, they did not differ much in size from the current icon format, allowing for a more accessible app overview.
The Windows 10 Start menu also featured an All apps list directly on the main page, facilitating quicker access to unpinned applications. In contrast, Windows 11 introduces a Recommended section that can feel cluttered and less useful. ExplorerPatcher allows users to revert to the more straightforward Windows 10 layout, enhancing overall usability.
The Taskbar Transformation
ExplorerPatcher also revitalizes the taskbar by restoring its Windows 10 aesthetics. This change, while subjective, is appreciated for its clarity. The Windows 10 taskbar presents individual icons for essential functions like time and Wi-Fi, allowing for a more streamlined experience. Additionally, the customization options are expanded, enabling users to choose between different styles for elements like the clock and Wi-Fi indicators.
A standout feature of this taskbar overhaul is the custom weather widget, which replaces the modern widgets panel. This new widget is visually appealing and provides concise weather information, making it a significant improvement over the default offering in Windows 11. Furthermore, ExplorerPatcher allows users to position the taskbar anywhere on the screen, a flexibility that Windows 11 does not provide.
File Explorer: A Nod to the Past
Another noteworthy enhancement from ExplorerPatcher is the revival of the Ribbon UI in File Explorer, a feature that many users preferred from Windows 10. The Ribbon presents all necessary options in a clear manner, making tasks like file management more intuitive. While Windows 11 retains some of these functionalities, the simplified interface can sometimes hinder usability.
However, reverting to the Windows 10-style UI does come with trade-offs, such as the loss of tab support in File Explorer. This compromise may be acceptable for those who prioritize a more user-friendly interface over the latest features.
Potential Drawbacks
Despite its many benefits, ExplorerPatcher is not without its flaws. Users may encounter occasional bugs, such as the Start menu misalignment or the taskbar failing to position correctly. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with a simple restart of the app. Some users have also reported the weather widget being replaced by the outdated My People feature, although this has not been a widespread issue.
It’s important to note that the latest update for ExplorerPatcher was released in November 2024. While this is not indicative of an abandoned project, it raises concerns about the frequency of support and updates, particularly in the face of potential Windows updates that could disrupt functionality.
In summary, ExplorerPatcher emerges as a valuable tool for Windows 11 users who wish to recapture the efficiency of Windows 10 features. While it may not be as comprehensive as some paid solutions, its free nature makes it an appealing option for those seeking to enhance their Windows experience without incurring additional costs.
