CNET Editors' review
If you like the interface of the Mac OS but are stuck using a Windows machine, this little app from Stardock can help--if only very slightly. The premise behind ObjectDock is very simple: it adds an animated, Mac-inspired dock to your desktop that provides easy access to useful shortcuts and serves to replace your taskbar (if you so choose).
The ObjectDock install is quick and light, and the program is extremely easy to set up. A simple settings menu lets you choose how many items you want on the dock, where it is positioned, and whether you want zoom enabled. You can also adjust the size, style, and color as well as set it to autohide or remain on top.
In addition, the free version of ObjectDock includes various "docklets" (Stardock's term for widgets) that can provide quick access to weather, time, and so on. For even more features, there's an option to upgrade to the Plus version for $19.95. It includes the ability to add multiple docks, creates tabbed docks in Windows 7, and offers improved task switching.
ObjectDock - Place your favourite Web links, apps, and widgets on a dock - Download Video Previews:Publisher's Description
From Stardock:
ObjectDock is designed to add style, organization, and function to your Windows experience. Place your favorite web links, program shortcuts and information widgets on this fun, animated and easy-to-use dock. Additional docklets provide quick access to weather, time, and other useful information. A new UI allows users to choose from a number of styles and special effects for a custom experience. The free version has only one dock (Plus version adds capability to have multiple docks, adds Tabbed docks, System Tray support and skin recoloring).
What's new in this version: Version 2.0:
- Icon reflections;
- Background blur-behind (Vista/Win7 only);
- Brand new User Interface and revamped menus;
- Now displays all running programs in your dock, allowing for pinning & unpinning ("Show Applications" mode);
- For new users, automatically imports your quicklaunch icons (XP/Vista) or pinned taskbar icons (Windows 7) into your dock;
- Mouseover effects previously only available in Plus now available in free version (Zoom, Swing and... See all new features
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All versions:
4.0 starsout of 797 votes
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Current version:
3.7 starsout of 135 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"DO NOT INSTALL-Loaded w/Malware, Hijacks search engine"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
It works OK but I don't want all the malware
Cons
it will take you a while to get rid of it
Summary
0
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"Terrible support for paid version; other serious limits"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
I love the version of this product that runs on the Dell (DellDock?) So I checked out the free, and paid, version for my Lenovo ThinkPad.
Cons
First, the support is practically non-existent.
Second, I write software. I want to run my development exe with different start up values. With tabbed docks, you can group shortcuts into a folder, or group, BUT you can ONLY run 2 short-cuts that refer to the same exe!!! I often want to start 3 or more. This is a serious limitation for me.Summary
I just asked for my money back (HAH!) and will move on to something else.
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"Eh.... Rocketdock is much better"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
I prefer Rocketdock for a lot of reasons, one is that Stardock wants to charge for most features of Objectdock. The only reason I use Objectdock is because I like the tiles feature and there's a cool steampunk theme out there for it.
Cons
See above.
Summary
Use Rocketdock. Trust me, you'll be happier.
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"it works well enough but"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
it works well enough
Cons
Rather garish icons which would probably suit someone under 10 years old. There is not really enough functionality in the free version to make the use of this worthwhile
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"neat enough"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Makes it easier to locate items you use on a regular basis.
Cons
A bit "in your face" on d/top
Summary
Not a bad gimmick, but find the "ballooning" feature a little irritaing.
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"The software is not recommended for developers"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Cool design, no delay perfect for average user!
Cons
Dose not show all apps you need to see.
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"Very nice and Works in Windows 8"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Provides a productivity-enhancing bar onto which you can place icons for loads of programs. Can set it to disappear like the task bar can do. Set up is easier in the new version. I've seen nothing to indicate that ObjectDock slows down our computers or introduces any trojans.
Cons
Separator bar is too wide. Not nearly as smooth as RocketDocket, but RocketDocket definitely does NOT work in Windows 8, although it works just fine in Windows 7.
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"Deceiving, said free and it was not and not Fences"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Could find none.
Cons
The program knocked out my present Fences II and then I found out it is not free and I already paid for the original fences. Good thing I had saved the original program.
Summary
This is the third time I was sort of tricked by CNET to download software that I had to end up uninstalling because of the stuff that seems to come along with it I did not want or it was not as described or I had to go to a strange site to download. I have unsubscribed from CNET.
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"Too many crashes - uses too many resources"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Looks good works well most of time.
Cons
Crashes all the time for no reason.
Uses so many resources that it slows machine down drastically at times.
Not enough options to change the look.Summary
I liked it for quite a while, but started getting the infamous crashes on Vista and other systems that so many people talk about. Couldn't fix it. It also slowed my system down drastically at times because all of the memory it uses and resources it uses. Plus, you have very few options to change colors designs etc. I am giving up on it. Too many other, better options.
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"Used to be good, now it's terrible"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
None. Absolutely none.
Cons
It loads your computer up with AVG bloat and makes it impossible to remove. It took over chrome, and even when I uninstalled it and re installed chrome it was still there. I think I've finally removed it. STAY AWAY and get a different dock.
Summary
Shame on you, ObjectDock.
Don't get this. It's simply terrible.
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