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.
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:
- 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 Glow, plus ... See all new features
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All versions:
4.0 starsout of 770 votes
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Current version:
3.8 starsout of 108 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Alright but not great."
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Looks good
Cons
disappears when loading on the side, made my taskbar disappear after removing the program
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"Thank you for this"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
I like it.Thanks for et...
Cons
I like it.Thanks for et...Really thanks
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"nice app, problems with xp media"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
looks good, functional
Cons
the weather widget, which is what I like most, says "feed not available" 90% of the time
Summary
the weather widget, which is what I like most, says "feed not available" 90% of the time
Because of this I'm about to be a "had it" reviewer -
"Nice and usefull"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Nice addition to your Windows experience. Low on resources.
Cons
Not that I can thing of.
Summary
Well rouded product.
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"This is something Windows should have added."
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
It puts all my most used apps in one easy to get to place.
Cons
Could be more user friendly. The larger icons take up a lot of screen space.
Summary
It's not perfect but it's better than anything that Windows has devised.
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"Neat little thing, a reinvention of the taskbar(?)"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
This is a great little program that looks really spiffy. It generally works really well. If your a minimalist though you may find your self asking, 'why do I need this?', as it basically does what the taskbar does, just in a prettier way.
Cons
If you keep fiddling and change the settings constantly, it may crash and you'll have to restart. Any software will probably do this. You just have to patient.
Summary
Definitely worth a go, you can always turn it off if it becomes superfluous.
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"Unexpectedly crashes Vista"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Love the weather flyout and (Windows) Start button.
Cons
There are some issues with Vista (64) crashing and/or causing other app hang
Summary
I wound up deleting it because of app hang
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"Love The Look!"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Great Look!
Cons
None with Win 7, but crashes in Win XP sometimes.
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"Love It!!!"
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Makes for a nice clean Desktop!
Cons
Crashes every few days, and there are no tabbed options!!
Summary
I really like this application! I have it on every computer we own, wouldn't do without it.
I meant for there to be 4 Stars, because of the crashing, and no tabbed options...
The only flaws I see are that it crashes often, and don't offer tabbed options. Great program other than that, I am sure the bugs will be worked out shortly!
Updated on Nov 15, 2011 -
"Luv it. Great program."
Version: ObjectDock 2.0
Pros
Great for quick program access.
Cons
Would like PopUp or Spring Floders.
Summary
Great program.
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