In the ever-evolving landscape of operating systems, user experience remains a pivotal focus. Windows 11 has sparked a wave of discussion, particularly regarding its Start menu, which many users feel has not lived up to the legacy of its predecessor, Windows 10. While Microsoft has made strides to enhance the functionality of the Windows 11 Start menu, the consensus among some users is that the previous version offered a more intuitive and customizable experience.
Why the Windows 10 Start menu is so great
The Windows 10 Start menu is often heralded as a pinnacle of design within Microsoft’s operating systems. Its blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal allowed users to navigate their applications with ease. The inclusion of Live Tiles, while perhaps feeling dated now, provided a unique way to access real-time information directly from the Start menu. This feature, along with the ability to resize the menu and tiles, offered a level of personalization that many users appreciated.
Unlike the rigid structure of the Windows 11 Start menu, Windows 10 allowed for a fluid user experience. Users could adjust the menu to fit their needs, whether they preferred a minimalist approach or a fully populated interface filled with pinned applications. The flexibility to create groups and folders further enhanced organization, making it a favorite among those who valued efficiency in their workflow.
Bringing back the good old days
ExplorerPatcher to the rescue
For those yearning for the familiar feel of the Windows 10 Start menu, ExplorerPatcher emerges as a beacon of hope. This free tool allows users to customize various elements of the Windows Explorer shell, including the Start menu itself. While it does not fully replicate the Live Tiles feature, it successfully captures the visual and organizational essence of Windows 10.
Getting started with ExplorerPatcher is straightforward. Users can download the application from GitHub and follow a simple installation process. Once installed, navigating to the Start menu section allows users to switch the style from Windows 11 to Windows 10 with just a few clicks. This instant transformation brings back the beloved features of the past, enabling users to pin apps, resize tiles, and organize their Start menu as they see fit.
It can do a lot more, too
But there are some bugs
Beyond restoring the Start menu, ExplorerPatcher offers additional customization options that enhance the user experience further. Users can choose between rounded corners or the classic squared-off design, as well as select between a floating or docked Start menu. These features provide a level of personalization that was previously unavailable.
However, it is worth noting that ExplorerPatcher is not without its quirks. Users have reported occasional glitches, such as the weather widget displaying the outdated My People interface instead of the intended feature. Despite these minor setbacks, the overall functionality and aesthetic improvements make ExplorerPatcher a compelling choice for those who prefer the Windows 10 experience.
In a world where operating systems continually evolve, tools like ExplorerPatcher serve as a reminder of the importance of user preference and customization. For those who find solace in the familiar, this tool offers a bridge back to a design that many still hold dear.
