How to Make Windows 10 Start Menu Like Windows 7: A Journey Through Nostalgia and Functionality

The Windows 10 Start Menu is a blend of the classic Windows 7 Start Menu and the modern Live Tiles introduced in Windows 8. While many users appreciate the new features, some long for the simplicity and familiarity of the Windows 7 Start Menu. If you’re one of those users, you’re in luck! This article will guide you through various methods to make your Windows 10 Start Menu resemble the beloved Windows 7 version. Along the way, we’ll explore why this transformation is more than just a cosmetic change—it’s a journey through nostalgia and functionality.
Why Revert to the Windows 7 Start Menu?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s discuss why someone might want to revert to the Windows 7 Start Menu. The Windows 10 Start Menu, while feature-rich, can feel overwhelming to some users. The combination of Live Tiles, app lists, and search functionality can be a lot to navigate. The Windows 7 Start Menu, on the other hand, is straightforward and easy to use. It offers a clean, hierarchical structure that many users find more intuitive.
Moreover, the Windows 7 Start Menu is faster to navigate. With fewer animations and a simpler layout, it allows users to access their programs and files more quickly. For those who value efficiency over aesthetics, the Windows 7 Start Menu is a clear winner.
Method 1: Using Classic Shell
One of the most popular tools for customizing the Windows 10 Start Menu is Classic Shell. This free, open-source software allows you to transform your Start Menu into something that closely resembles the Windows 7 version.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Download and Install Classic Shell: Visit the Classic Shell website and download the latest version. Follow the installation instructions.
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Configure Classic Shell: After installation, open Classic Shell and navigate to the “Start Menu Style” tab. Here, you can choose the “Windows 7 Style” option.
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Customize Further: Classic Shell offers a plethora of customization options. You can change the Start Menu’s appearance, behavior, and even add custom skins.
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Apply Changes: Once you’re satisfied with your settings, click “OK” to apply the changes. Your Start Menu should now look and feel like the Windows 7 version.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Classic Shell is highly customizable and offers a near-perfect replication of the Windows 7 Start Menu.
- Cons: The software is no longer actively maintained, which could lead to compatibility issues in the future.
Method 2: Using StartIsBack
Another excellent tool for transforming your Windows 10 Start Menu is StartIsBack. This paid software offers a more polished experience compared to Classic Shell.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Download and Install StartIsBack: Visit the StartIsBack website and purchase the software. Follow the installation instructions.
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Configure StartIsBack: After installation, open StartIsBack and navigate to the “Start Menu” tab. Here, you can choose the “Windows 7 Style” option.
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Customize Further: StartIsBack offers a range of customization options, including the ability to change the Start Menu’s appearance, behavior, and even add custom skins.
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Apply Changes: Once you’re satisfied with your settings, click “OK” to apply the changes. Your Start Menu should now look and feel like the Windows 7 version.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: StartIsBack offers a more polished and stable experience compared to Classic Shell.
- Cons: It is a paid software, which might be a deterrent for some users.
Method 3: Manual Customization
If you prefer not to use third-party software, you can manually customize the Windows 10 Start Menu to resemble the Windows 7 version. While this method won’t give you an exact replica, it can get you close.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Remove Live Tiles: Right-click on each Live Tile and select “Unpin from Start.” This will remove the tiles and give you a cleaner Start Menu.
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Resize the Start Menu: Click and drag the edges of the Start Menu to resize it. A smaller Start Menu will resemble the Windows 7 version more closely.
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Organize Your Programs: Manually organize your programs into folders, just like you would in Windows 7. This will give you a more hierarchical structure.
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Disable Cortana: If you don’t use Cortana, you can disable it to free up space in the Start Menu. Right-click on the taskbar, select “Cortana,” and choose “Hidden.”
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: This method doesn’t require any third-party software, making it a safer option.
- Cons: It won’t give you an exact replica of the Windows 7 Start Menu, and it requires more effort.
Method 4: Using Group Policy Editor
For advanced users, the Group Policy Editor offers another way to customize the Start Menu. This method is more technical but can yield excellent results.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Open Group Policy Editor: Press
Win + R
, typegpedit.msc
, and press Enter. -
Navigate to Start Menu Settings: Go to
User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar
. -
Disable Live Tiles: Find the policy named “Remove common program groups from Start Menu” and enable it. This will remove Live Tiles and give you a cleaner Start Menu.
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Apply Changes: Click “OK” to apply the changes. Your Start Menu should now look more like the Windows 7 version.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: This method offers a high level of customization and doesn’t require third-party software.
- Cons: It is more technical and may not be suitable for all users.
Conclusion
Reverting to the Windows 7 Start Menu on Windows 10 is more than just a cosmetic change—it’s a journey through nostalgia and functionality. Whether you choose to use third-party software like Classic Shell or StartIsBack, or opt for manual customization, the end result is a Start Menu that is simpler, faster, and more intuitive. So why wait? Take the plunge and transform your Windows 10 Start Menu today!
Related Q&A
Q: Can I revert to the Windows 7 Start Menu without using third-party software?
A: Yes, you can manually customize the Windows 10 Start Menu to resemble the Windows 7 version, although it won’t be an exact replica.
Q: Is Classic Shell still safe to use?
A: While Classic Shell is no longer actively maintained, it is still considered safe to use. However, you should always download it from the official website to avoid any potential security risks.
Q: Will reverting to the Windows 7 Start Menu affect my system’s performance?
A: No, reverting to the Windows 7 Start Menu should not affect your system’s performance. In fact, it might even improve performance by reducing the load on your system’s resources.
Q: Can I use StartIsBack on multiple computers?
A: Yes, but you will need to purchase a separate license for each computer.
Q: Are there any other tools besides Classic Shell and StartIsBack?
A: Yes, there are other tools like Open-Shell and Start10, but Classic Shell and StartIsBack are the most popular and widely used.