MaxLauncher vs Win9xplorer
MaxLauncher
maxlauncher.sourceforge.ioWin9xplorer
win9xplorer.abby.mdSide by side
| Figure | MaxLauncher | Win9xplorer |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 0 |
| Spec score · Start Menu Customization Software | 8.1 (#7) | 6.4 (#34) |
| Integrations | The product can launch programs, folders, or commands; the maker pages do not list third-party service integrations. | The maker identifies Spotify as an integration through its taskbar toolbar. |
| License | The product page identifies the license as Microsoft Reciprocal License (MS-RL). | The project is GPL-licensed; the repository identifies the license as GNU General Public License. |
| Purpose | MaxLauncher is a tabbed launcher designed to reduce the time needed to find and run programs. | Win9xplorer recreates the classic Windows 9x experience for modern Windows with a retro file explorer and taskbar. |
Plans
In their own words
MaxLauncher
MaxLauncher is a free, open-source tabbed launcher for Windows that opens programs, folders, or commands with two or three keystrokes. Each .mld data file can hold up to ten tabs, with 30 configurable buttons on each, for a maximum of 300 buttons. A favorites bar adds ten configurable buttons assigned to F1–F10. Separate XML-format text files can keep shortcut groups, such as work and home, apart. The launcher supports drag and drop, configurable activation hotkeys, custom themes, multi-launch, multiple instances, and basic multi-monitor use. Users can install it with an executable or choose a portable ZIP version, which the maker says can run from a USB stick or external hard drive. Portable settings can be made read-only to prevent changes to selected launcher data and cache files. The listed requirements are Windows Vista or newer, or Windows XP with Microsoft .NET 3.5 or higher; it runs on 32-bit and 64-bit versions. The downloads page lists version 1.31.0.0, dated October 29, 2021, as the latest release shown.
Win9xplorer
Win9xplorer has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.