Flow Launcher vs Open-Shell Menu
Flow Launcher
flowlauncher.comOpen-Shell Menu
open-shell.github.ioSide by side
| Figure | Flow Launcher | Open-Shell Menu |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Start Menu Customization Software | 7.8 (#11) | 7.4 (#24) |
| Purpose | Flow Launcher is a quick file search and app launcher for Windows. | Open-Shell is a collection of utilities bringing back classic features to Windows. |
Plans
In their own words
Flow Launcher
Flow Launcher has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
Open-Shell Menu
Open-Shell Menu is a free collection of Windows utilities that brings back classic interface features. Its classic-style Start menu supports Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and 11, with Start button controls and custom search. It also adds a toolbar and a status bar to Windows Explorer; the status bar can show file size and disk space. A classic copy interface is available for Windows 7 only, and Open-Shell provides title-bar and status-bar features for Internet Explorer. The project says it is compatible with Windows for ARM beginning with version 4.4.196, while warning that older versions may prevent account login after reboot. It was originally known as Classic Shell and is described as having been created by Ivo Beltchev. Free code signing is provided by SignPath.io with a certificate from SignPath Foundation. The project directs users to issue reporting, Discussions, Gitter and Discord for support. A temporary language option uses a downloaded language DLL placed in the installation folder or Open-Shell Languages folder.