GiMeSpace QuickMenu vs PortableApps.com Platform

GiMeSpace QuickMenu is a Windows task launcher and switcher that appears at the mouse cursor when you press an assigned mouse or keyboard key. Its upper section lists running tasks, with the most recently used first; its lower section holds programs, files, and shortcuts that you can reorder or remove. You can choose a hotkey, enable click activation, and adjust the number of icon columns. When the cursor is away from the screen edge, QuickMenu can place the previously used task under the cursor to help switch back. The maker says it is designed for Windows XP and later and does not restore the Windows Start menu. It identifies tasks by their icons rather than preview windows. Adding store apps and their icons can be difficult; the maker suggests creating a shortcut first and adding that. Version 2.1.1 comes in high- and low-resolution display versions, with Unicode support listed for the high-resolution version only. The product page lists a free program and a 30-day trial, with pricing from 23 AUD.

PortableApps.com Platform lets users assemble a portable software suite for a synced cloud folder, local computer, or USB drive. Its built-in app store provides browsing and installation without a download limit. A customizable menu organizes applications with folders, favorites, and search. The updater reports available updates and can install them without changing settings or saved files. Integrated backup and restore are listed, and installation works in synced folders such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box. Apps from the store are checked for malware and viruses and are not altered after checking, according to the support information. The platform is free and open source under GPL, with some MIT and CC components. The listed download is 7MB and installed size 19MB. Windows is listed directly; Linux, Unix, and BSD use Wine, while Mac OS X uses compatibility software. Support comes through online pages, forums, and live chat.