Compare software

OldNewExplorer vs Windhawk: catalog facts
OldNewExplorer	Windhawk
Free Free Windows shell tweak.	Free Free and open source. Hosting, hardware and any external services are separate.
Windows	Windows
Restores specific classic Explorer behaviors without a full theme overhaul Every change is optional and configurable	Manages downloadable customization modules Includes tools for writing your own mods
Modifying shell components carries some risk of instability Distributed through a forum thread rather than an official site	Mods run code inside applications and can need updates when those applications change.
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Closed source	Open source
License not stated	License: GPL-3.0
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 22, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 22, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.