Classic Shell for Windows 8

I just bought a new Windows 8 laptop and found, of course, that the desktop UI has changed a lot. Any new interface takes time to get used to and perhaps the Windows 8 UI is OK, but I was startled to find that there was no longer a start icon and the I found the need to go back and forth between the Metro Page and the desktop annoying.

I found Classic Shell for Windows 8 which adds the start button back into the desktop and skips the Metro page completely but don't know if there are any drawbacks to installing it. I thought I would ask if anyone on this forum has opinions on Classic Shell or any of the alternatives.

Does Classic Shell work properly? Would I be missing anything important if I install it and skip the Metro Page? Are any of the shell alternatives any better?

Thanks in advance for any advice.