Desktop icon layouts can become disorganized after changing screen resolutions, connecting external monitors, updating display drivers, or using Remote Desktop sessions. To solve this problem, many Windows users rely on desktop layout backup tools.
Two of the most popular options are DesktopOK and ReIcon. Both programs allow users to save and restore desktop icon positions, but they differ significantly in features, flexibility, and overall functionality.
This DesktopOK vs ReIcon comparison examines their features, performance, usability, and compatibility to help you determine which tool is best for your workflow.
Quick Info
Software: DesktopOK
Developer: SoftwareOK
License: Freeware
Platform: Windows
Website Note: DesktopOK.net is an independent informational guide. DesktopOK is developed by SoftwareOK.
What Is DesktopOK?
DesktopOK is a lightweight Windows utility developed by SoftwareOK that allows users to save and restore desktop icon layouts.
The software includes advanced features designed for both casual users and professionals.
Key DesktopOK Features
- Save and restore desktop icon layouts
- Portable version available
- Auto save functionality
- Multiple profile support
- Multi-monitor compatibility
- Resolution-specific layouts
- Lightweight installation
- Support for older Windows versions
DesktopOK is particularly popular among users who frequently switch display configurations.
What Is ReIcon?
ReIcon is a simple utility designed specifically for saving and restoring desktop icon positions.
It focuses on one primary function and offers a straightforward interface.
Key ReIcon Features
- Save desktop icon layouts
- Restore saved layouts
- Portable application
- Simple user interface
- Lightweight performance
ReIcon is ideal for users looking for a basic desktop icon backup tool without additional functionality.
Quick Verdict
DesktopOK is a better choice for users who want more layout control, multi-monitor support, and regular desktop icon management. ReIcon is suitable for users who only need a simple save-and-restore tool with a basic interface.
DesktopOK vs ReIcon Feature Comparison
| Feature | DesktopOK | ReIcon |
|---|---|---|
| Save Layouts | Yes | Yes |
| Restore Layouts | Yes | Yes |
| Portable Version | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Save | Yes | No |
| Multi Monitor Support | Yes | Limited |
| Multiple Profiles | Yes | Limited |
| Resolution Profiles | Yes | No |
| Scheduled Backups | Yes | No |
| Windows 11 Support | Yes | Yes |
| Resource Usage | Very Low | Very Low |
DesktopOK clearly offers a broader feature set.
User Interface Comparison
DesktopOK Interface
DesktopOK provides a feature-rich interface with access to multiple layout profiles, automatic backups, and advanced settings.
Advantages include:
- Detailed control options
- Profile management
- Backup organization
- Multi-monitor configuration tools
ReIcon Interface
ReIcon focuses on simplicity.
Advantages include:
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Quick save and restore actions
Users who prefer basic functionality may appreciate ReIcon’s straightforward design.
Performance Comparison
Both applications are lightweight and consume minimal system resources.
DesktopOK Performance
- Extremely small file size
- Fast save and restore operations
- Handles large desktop layouts efficiently
- Supports complex monitor configurations
ReIcon Performance
- Fast startup
- Minimal memory usage
- Quick backup creation
In everyday usage, performance differences are negligible.
Multi Monitor Support
Multi-monitor support is one of the biggest differences between the two tools.
DesktopOK
DesktopOK was designed to handle multiple displays effectively.
Features include:
- Separate monitor profiles
- Resolution-aware backups
- Layout restoration across different screen setups
ReIcon
ReIcon can save layouts but lacks many advanced multi-monitor management features.
For users with dual or triple monitor workstations, DesktopOK offers a more reliable experience.
Auto Save Functionality
DesktopOK
DesktopOK includes automatic backup options.
Users can schedule backups:
- Every few minutes
- Every hour
- Daily
- At startup
- At shutdown
This ensures layouts remain protected without manual intervention.
ReIcon
ReIcon requires manual saves.
Users must remember to create backups themselves.
This can become inconvenient when desktop layouts change frequently.
Portability
Both applications support portable usage.
DesktopOK Portable
- Runs directly from USB drives
- No installation required
- Settings can travel with the user
ReIcon Portable
- Portable by design
- Small executable size
- Easy deployment
Both tools perform well in this category.
Compatibility
DesktopOK Compatibility
Supports:
- Windows 11
- Windows 10
- Windows 8.1
- Windows 8
- Windows 7
- Older Windows versions
ReIcon Compatibility
Supports:
- Windows 11
- Windows 10
- Windows 8
- Windows 7
DesktopOK generally offers broader compatibility.
Advantages of DesktopOK
More Features
DesktopOK provides significantly more functionality beyond simple backup and restore actions.
Better Multi-Monitor Support
Ideal for users with complex display setups.
Automatic Backups
Auto Save prevents accidental loss of layouts.
Resolution Profiles
Layouts can be linked to specific display resolutions.
Active Development
DesktopOK continues receiving updates and improvements.
Advantages of ReIcon
Simplicity
Perfect for users who only need basic backup and restore functionality.
Easy Learning Curve
New users can start using ReIcon immediately.
Lightweight
Requires virtually no system resources.
Which Tool Should You Choose?
Choose DesktopOK If You:
- Use multiple monitors
- Frequently change resolutions
- Need automatic backups
- Want advanced profile management
- Work remotely using Remote Desktop
- Need maximum flexibility
Choose ReIcon If You:
- Want a simple backup tool
- Only use one monitor
- Prefer minimal settings
- Need basic save and restore functionality
Conclusion
When comparing DesktopOK vs ReIcon, both tools successfully save and restore desktop icon layouts. However, DesktopOK offers a much more complete feature set.
Its automatic backups, multi-monitor support, resolution profiles, and advanced management tools make it the stronger choice for most Windows users.
ReIcon remains a solid option for users who want a simple and lightweight utility, but DesktopOK provides greater flexibility and long-term usability.
For professionals, gamers, designers, and multi-monitor users, DesktopOK is generally the better solution.