StartIsBack review
A focused, low-cost way to restore classic Start and taskbar behavior on Windows 10.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
StartIsBack is a desktop utility for Windows 10 users who want a Windows 7-style Start menu and more control over the taskbar. It supports launching programs and documents, searching for items, configuring Start menu shortcuts, changing the Start button appearance, and adjusting taskbar presentation. Its focus is narrow: restoring and customizing core Windows navigation rather than adding a broad productivity suite. It suits individuals and families who prefer classic controls, while organizations can use its Group Policy support and business licensing options.
The published plans use one-time pricing rather than a subscription. Personal 1 PC costs $4.99, Personal 2 PCs costs $8.99, and the Family Pack costs $11.99; each plan is for personal use. A 30-day trial provides time to evaluate the software, but there is no permanent free plan. The pricing structure is straightforward for households with one or more personal PCs, and the entry tier keeps the cost low for a single Windows 10 installation.
Customization depth is the main reason to choose StartIsBack. Users can select Start menu and taskbar skins, modify the Start button appearance, replace taskbar jump lists, center and resize taskbar icons, and control taskbar color and translucency. Search is also part of the customization set, and Group Policy support gives administrators an additional configuration option. The trade-off is platform scope: the documented product is for Windows 10, while related products cover other Windows versions under separate names. Choose StartIsBack for focused classic controls on Windows 10; choose another option if support for newer Windows versions is required from the same product.
StartIsBack pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Restores a Windows 7-style Start menu with configurable shortcuts
- Offers detailed taskbar skins, sizing, centering, color, and translucency controls
- Includes search customization and Group Policy support
- Where it doesn't
- Documented support is limited to Windows 10
- There is no permanent free plan
- Newer Windows versions require separate related products
StartIsBack fact sheet, pricing and score →
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