Side by side
Fluent Search vs Open-Shell Menu
Both stand on start menu customization software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
Fluent Search combines broad Windows search with keyboard navigation, local optional AI features, and community extensions. Review its indexing and external-communication settings, and note the maker’s caution about the ARM64 build.
Visit Fluent Search Free plan Windows
Open-Shell combines Start menu customization with several older Windows interface features. Note the Windows 7-only copy interface and the project's warning about older versions on ARM.
Visit Open-Shell MenuThe facts
| Fluent Search | Open-Shell Menu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | fluentsearch.net | open-shell.github.io |
| On start menu customization software | #9 of 39 | #13 of 39 |
Fluent Search: what it does well
- Searches apps, files, browser data, and more
- Screen Search supports keyboard navigation of clickable elements
- Optional semantic search and summaries run locally
- Community plugins add sources, actions, and workflows
- Free for Windows 10 or 11
What to know first
- Available only for Windows
- Some settings, diagnostics, suggestions, or plugins may communicate externally
- The maker describes ARM64 as newer and not yet battle-tested
Open-Shell Menu: what it does well
- Classic Start menu supports Windows 7 through 11
- Explorer status bar can show file size and disk space
- Includes Start button and custom search controls
- Free to use
What to know first
- Classic copy interface is for Windows 7 only
- Older ARM-compatible versions may prevent login after reboot
- Windows only
Alternatives to Fluent Search Alternatives to Open-Shell Menu The whole list