Side by side
SmartTaskbar vs Taskbar Hide
Both stand on taskbar 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
SmartTaskbar provides automatic taskbar hiding and a tray control for switching display modes. Its compatibility notes and occasional hook failure are relevant if the taskbar must appear reliably across different apps or older Windows versions.
Visit SmartTaskbar Free plan Windows
Taskbar Hide offers a small, self-contained way to control taskbar visibility, including a portable option. Note that several CLI controls depend on the GUI app running.
Visit Taskbar HideThe facts
| SmartTaskbar | Taskbar Hide | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | github.com | github.com |
| On taskbar customization software | #11 of 34 | #15 of 34 |
SmartTaskbar: what it does well
- Free, with no paid plans or usage limits stated
- Tray icon switches between Show and Auto-Hide
- Privacy statement says it uses no telemetry
- Settings are stored locally offline
What to know first
- Some applications may not bring up the taskbar
- Hook may occasionally fail
- Auto Mode may not work on Windows 10 from 2019 or earlier
- Microsoft Store version is less functional and stable
Taskbar Hide: what it does well
- Free for Windows 10 and 11.
- Offers x64 and ARM64 downloads.
- Portable ZIP runs without installation.
- Provides tray-menu and command-line controls.
What to know first
- CLI show, hide, and stop require the GUI app running.
- Only Windows is listed.
- Custom status-bar issues may need bug reports with details.
Alternatives to SmartTaskbar Alternatives to Taskbar Hide The whole list