CNET Editors' review
If you like the look of Vista, but don't want to upgrade Windows XP, this suite of desktop applications makes it easy to emulate most aspects of Microsoft's controversial operating system. It doesn't replicate the Aero theme, but what it does do is take existing XP emulations of parts of Vista and combine them under one installer.
To replicate the sidebar, the program installs Yahoo Widgets. For the Start menu, the publisher uses its own XP Start menu replacement, Vista Start Menu. And for the look of Vista, Microsoft's own Vista desktop theme for XP is included. The Yahoo and Microsoft solutions are the most elegant, while OrdinarySoft's Vista Start Menu has never quite worked right for us. It's bloated and feels chaotic, although it is free.
Overall, the hodgepodge of programs works fine, even if some users might feel mislead for thinking this was one unified solution to their Vista desires. However, these applications are available on their own and this round-up doesn't bring anything new to the table.
Publisher's Description
From OrdinarySoft:
Bring innovation into your work without buying a new PC or a system. The best freeware safely installed. The package contains time-tested developments of Microsoft and Yahoo, as well as a convenient substitute--Vista Start Menu. The items of the package complement each other, and do not disrupt your work.
Version 3.11 is a bug fixing release.
What's new in this version: Resolved minor bugs/issues
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All versions:
3.7 starsout of 96 votes
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Current version:
4.3 starsout of 12 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Helluva Lockin' Good, really!"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Start Menu XP's combines with Vista. I waited for this about XP usually table of programs. My own mix of the menues get this bettern. A sight for a sour eyes!
Cons
I have used these combinations in two weeks, by now. Can't find any "cons", at all. Why didn't Microsoft these menues from the very first start? That's a mystery!
Summary
I have given my frieds the real site at "go"! Lots of colleagues, buddies & relatives get suprised, by joy! Everyone's says that this shound been done, at Microsoft XP's software begune. That's says a lots!
How should it been without "CNET's Download site"? Deadly boring!
Updated on Feb 12, 2012 -
"" Works great""
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Changed boring xp.
Cons
Nothing so far.
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"well as for me i am using panda and no such report"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
it displays all what menu contained without necessarily opening all things
Cons
nothing i can call a problem for now.
Summary
the feature is fantastic and i love it much
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"Good Product, does what it say's."
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Really improves the look of Xp. So far no problems. Used on both XP and XP sp2, works good on XP and great on XP sp2. In either case I never had a problem with the start botton.
Cons
I choose not to use the yahoo widgets because I like my DS Sidebar with vista skin better. So I can't comment on the widgets.
Summary
I,ve tired alot of products to give xp the clean look of vista (the only good thing about microsofts bloated OS) and this is best yet.
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"Very Nice, could use some minor adjustments"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Makes your dull and boring desktop look 10 times better. Does not slow computer down.
Cons
Yahoo... not sure im a fan. I haven't been able to add widgets. It is not my computer or connection. Very dissapointing.
Summary
It needs a better widget system. Was not impressed by yahoo. I think the idea was great and i love the whole thing.
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"CONTAINS 6 TROJANS!! DO NOT DOWNLOAD!"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
nothing at all
Cons
CONTAINS 6 TROJANS!! DO NOT DOWNLOAD! (based on AVG scan)
Summary
CONTAINS 6 TROJANS!! DO NOT DOWNLOAD! (based on AVG scan)
redownloaded and ran another scan for clean results...possible false positive the first tilme?
Updated on Mar 2, 2010 -
"Nice and love it !!!"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Transform your usual XP theme to Vista..
The great thing is, your PC will not lack..Cons
None..Really enjoy using this theme..
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"Looks nice"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
looks way better than windows xp
Cons
none none none
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"Have Vista too but like this better."
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
See everything with one click.
Cons
No right side bar with clock.
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"Absolutely Brilliant Product, Must Get For Anyone!"
Version: Transform XP to Vista 3.11
Pros
Brilliant design , great looks and great start bar
Cons
nothing much really
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