Classic Shell: Forum

I need the classic start button to access programs, but still want to use the W8.1 button to access the start/metro screen. I am using Xbstart to navigate that screen and the green button normally opens that up but is now hardwired to just open the W7 start menu while Classic Shell is installed. I am using this system mostly while on the treadmill (i.e. to play games with the controller), and I can navigate the metro screen that way. I still have mouse/keyboard control as well on a platform, should I need to use the desktop/start menu.

So can I have both?

Yes absolutely you can have both. The Metro screen is not disabled when Classic Shell's Start Menu is installed. By default, you can access the Start screen in numerous ways (plus it is configurable from the Controls tab of Settings).


● Shift+left click on the Start button
● Press Shift+Win keys together
● Click on the shortcut called 'Start screen' inside the Start Menu
● Create a shortcut with the target set as follows:
"C:\Program Files\Classic Shell\ClassicStartMenu.exe" -toggle
Pin this shortcut to the Taskbar. -toggle opens the Start menu.

You can right click the Start button -> Settings. In Classic Start Menu Settings, check "Show all settings" checkbox at the top and then go to the Controls tab. There you can configure which key or click opens what. If Xbstart is opening the Classic Start Menu with Classic Shell installed, try changing the "Windows key opens" setting on the Controls tab. If you want TWO buttons, you can have them too. The Windows 8.1 can be assigned to open Metro by setting "Left click opens" to "Windows Start screen".

_________________
Links to some general topics:

● Compare Start Menus

● Read the Search box usage guide.

I am a Windows enthusiast and helped a little with Classic Shell's testing and usability/UX feedback.

You can try pinning the "Start Screen" shortcut that is in the "C:\Program Files\Classic Shell" folder to the taskbar. Right-click on it and select "Pin to taskbar". Clicking it will open the Metro start screen.

Thanks to both responders for the help! By making that adjustment to the settings, the Xbox controller now switches again between Metro and Desktop with Classic Shell installed. Visually, I switched to the W7 start button and I pinned the start screen shortcut to the taskbar to the right of it. Then changed the icon. Works good for me.