| Version | 0.4.9.3 |
|---|---|
| Publisher | WickedOrange |
| Release date | Nov 7, 2008 |
| Date added | Nov 9, 2007 |
| Os requirements | Windows, Windows XP |
| Requirements | Windows XP |
| Total downloads | 8,735 |
| Price | Free |
Description
StartMenuEx, or SMX (pronounced semex), is a replacement for the Windows Start Menu. It is fully customizable, and also supports user created themes and plugins. SMX takes over your Windows Start Menu, and allows you to have only the items you want in there, allowing you to find programs, browse your computer, open MSN Messenger contact windows, and many other tasks much more efficiently than usual.Version 0.4.9.3 includes unspecified updates.
Review
This utility lets you customize the Windows Start Menu, although the new looks it generates won't win any beauty pageants.
The majority of StartMenuEx's features are accessible through its system tray icon. You'll find preloaded theme and icon sets--such as the aptly named Cheesy, IceCold, and Old Classic--meant to enhance Start Menu's appearance. You'll also find preset menu layouts designed for purposes such as working or surfing the Internet.
We like that the program includes a theme editor that allows you to create or modify menu templates to best suit your needs, though you might want to read the help file first. What's more, the Notes feature lets you quickly jot down your thoughts without installing a separate program. Viewing all PCs in your network and your IP address is quick and easy under the Network Tools heading.
The program may have improved the Start Menu's layout, but most of the themes seem to be similar in style, and icon sets were unattractive. Further, StartMenuEx took a while to load the themes and menu layout. Despite the program's drawbacks, users looking to streamline their Start Menu might want to try this freeware application.
