As expected, the new Start menu in Windows 11 has sparked a storm of criticism, starting with the centered layout and greater restrictions on customization. Despite the lack of updates, we previously explained the installation process for OpenShell for Windows 11, but if you want to change the Start menu in Windows 11 with an even more complete solution, you should try installing the preview of StartIsBack.
Part of the resistance to Microsoft's decisions regarding Windows 11 focuses on the Start menu, basically a glorified launcher with few customization options. At the same time, Redmond has the intention (not to say the desire) to throw any hint of muscle memory out the window, and it's still complicated to locate certain configuration options.
With all that on the table, it's not surprising to learn that many users want to change the Start menu in Windows 11. OpenShell has been a very popular option thanks to its free and open-source profile, but it's not the only one on the market. If you're willing to spend a couple of dollars to access a more complete tool with a more frequent update cycle, you should get a copy of StartIsBack, which already offers a Windows 11-compatible preview.
How to change the Start menu in Windows 11 with StartIsBack
Once installed, StartIsBack asks whether the menu should be reproduced for all users, or for the current profile. The next step is to choose a theme from three available: a remastered Windows 7 for those who want a more classic style, a sort of hybrid based on Windows 10, or a 'proper' Windows 11 with rounded corners and a floating menu.
In the section for customizing the Start menu, we find options that allow us to increase or decrease the size of icons and limit their number, remove or add items on the right side, limit the scope of search, and highlight recently installed programs. However, the taskbar section is not far behind. There we can change the Start button, modify the size of margins, and enable dynamic transparency, which leaves the taskbar icons 'floating' on the desktop, and it looks quite good.
Since it's a preview, I recommend evaluating StartIsBack on a machine or environment that isn't for general use, but if what we've seen so far holds in the final build, changing the Start menu in Windows 11 will definitely be positive for many users. The trial of the preview of StartIsBack for Windows 11 ends in November. The cost of its perpetual license is only $3.99 for one computer, and it's worth every penny..
Access the preview (via MajorGeeks): Click here
Official site: Click here
