Which of the following versions of Windows does not have a Start button?

Concept

A desktop operating system can expose application launching through either a persistent taskbar control or a separate full-screen launcher. A change in launcher design may therefore remove the visible desktop control while retaining keyboard and screen-based access to applications.

Application

Windows 8 introduced the full-screen Start screen and removed the traditional Start button from the desktop taskbar. The Windows key and screen-edge controls opened the Start screen instead.

Contrast

• Windows Vista displays an orb-shaped Start control that opens the Start menu.

• Windows 7 also displays a taskbar Start control that opens the Start menu.

• None of the above would require all three named releases to retain that desktop control, which is inconsistent with the Windows 8 interface change.

Result

Therefore, the version without the desktop Start button is Windows 8.