OldNewExplorer vs ExplorerPatcher vs StartAllBack: Which Explorer Mod Is Best?
Customizing the Windows desktop has become essential for power users wanting to eliminate Microsoft's unnecessary bloatware, oversized ribbons, and sluggish modern flyouts. Three tools consistently dominate discussions in customization forums: OldNewExplorer, ExplorerPatcher, and StartAllBack.
While all three aim to improve Windows productivity, they operate differently, cater to different needs, and have vastly different resource footprints. Here is our head-to-head comparison.
Feature Comparison Matrix
| Feature / Capability | OldNewExplorer | ExplorerPatcher | StartAllBack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | File Explorer Windows 7 Styling & Details Pane | Taskbar & Windows 10 Start Menu restoration | Complete Windows 11 Taskbar, Start & Explorer redesign |
| License / Price | 100% Free | 100% Free (Open Source) | Paid ($4.99 per PC) |
| Command Bar Support | Native Windows 7 Command Bar | Windows 10 Ribbon fallback | Windows 7 / 10 Command Bar |
| Bottom Details Pane | Yes (Fully configurable) | No | Yes |
| Background CPU/RAM Footprint | 0 MB (Pure shell extension, no resident daemon) | ~15 - 35 MB (Resident process) | ~20 - 45 MB (Resident process) |
| Risk of Windows Update Breakage | Very Low (Hooks standard COM interfaces) | Moderate to High (Hooks internal symbol tables) | Low (Frequently updated by developer) |
When to Choose OldNewExplorer?
OldNewExplorer is the definitive choice if your primary goal is fixing File Explorer itself. It does not tamper with your taskbar, system clock, or start menu. It is extraordinarily lightweight: because it registers as a COM shell extension, it uses literally zero background memory when File Explorer windows are closed.
It is also the only freeware tool that reliably revives the original bottom Details Pane with instant metadata inspection for photos, MP3s, and documents.
Can You Combine Them?
Yes! Many enthusiasts combine OldNewExplorer for folder styling with ExplorerPatcher or Open-Shell (Classic Shell) for the taskbar and Start menu. This gives you total control over the Windows desktop without paying licensing fees or sacrificing performance.