Windows 8.1

robgoingcrazy

I'll be interested to see Windows 10, though it depends how long this laptop lasts, only got it this year - I generally see laptops as disposable these days - get cheapest entry level one I can (which does everything I need as fast as I need it and I use external storage so don't need a huge hard drive) and when it goes kaput get a new one. My last laptop lasted 4 years though so Windows 11 or 12 might be on its way then. I really do think these rollouts are a con, along with the constant procession of iphone versions etc - not really that necessary so often, I stick with what works for as long as possible to save money! :-D

GetRealBabe

Hi

I like Windows 8.1 especially as I boot to the desktop. Not sure I'd like it so much if I had a touch laptop.

I agree that it boots really fast and works well on my 7 year old laptop.

Anyone with a touch monitor/laptop, do you use the apps or boot to the desktop?

Gloomendoom

martin57 wrote: »

Personally I consider windows 8 a failed OS as far as I am concerned. I had it on my computer with all updates and workarounds to get around the lack of a start menu etc.

How many people still using windows 8 though?

I_have_spoken

How many people still using windows 8 though?

Some of the web-stats reckon 8 and 8.1 users are about the same

Loanranger

I upgraded from a six year old laptop to 8.1 on a new HP non-touch screen laptop. First thing I did was get Mozilla Firefox and now everything looks familiar. I was using Firefox before, obviously.
I also downloaded free samples of How To 8.1 type books on my kindle so I got a basic idea of it eg that there were charms: these are icons on the right hand side of the desktop. Plus I learned that the Windows button, never had one before, is useful. I like 8.1 so far...
Mind you, I can't figure out yet how to use it with my old printer to resize docs to print.
I honestly believe that there's been a rush to jump on the I don't like it bandwagon. I was pleasantly surprised.

[Deleted User]

My PC started out on Vista upgraded to 8/8.1 now on Windows 10 Preview, considering it is about 7/8 year old it flies along on all of them.

Totally agree about the comment of people jumping on the "I don`t like it wagon".

People just need a little bit of time to adapt to a new product.

PenguinJim

I_have_spoken wrote: »

If you can hold on until 2015, wait for Windows 10 on a new machine. I have been running the preview on a non-touchscreen laptop and it is much better than 8.1

Isn't it supposed to be a free upgrade from 8, though?

Jivesinger

PenguinJim wrote: »

Isn't it supposed to be a free upgrade from 8, though?

I don't think Microsoft have confirmed anything either way. Some hopeful journalists have suggested it might be free.

Gloomendoom

I can't think why it would be.

8.1 was the free upgrade.

PenguinJim

So 8.2 has been properly cancelled?

I think I would still get 8.1 and use it for a year and pick up the cheap upgrade, though. Depending on the price of 8.1, of course.