For most consumers, Windows 8.1 is the best choice. It possesses all required functions for daily work and life, including Windows Store, new version of Windows Explorer, and some service only provided by Windows 8.1 Enterprise before.

Similarly, Are Windows 8 and 8.1 the same?

Introduction. Windows 8.1 is the advanced version of the Microsoft Windows 8 operating system. Some enhancements have been made to the previous version of Windows 8. It was said that it is very useful for modern computing.

Additionally, Is Windows 8.1 still a good operating system? If you want to continue to use Windows 8 or 8.1, you can – it’s still very much a safe operating system to use. However, for those looking to upgrade to Windows 10, a few options are still available. … Some users claimed that they are still able to get the free upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 8.1.

Which Windows 8 version is best for gaming?

The regular Windows 8.1 is enough for a gaming PC, but Windows 8.1 Pro has some awesome features but still, not the features that you’ll need at gaming. So.. If I was you, I would pick the regular one.

Is Windows 8.1 Home or Pro?

Windows 8.1 comes in three different versions: Basic Edition, Pro, and Enterprise. Basic Edition – Windows 8.1 Basic Edition (or just Windows 8.1) is intended for home users. This version includes the core features, but none of the business features.

Why was Windows 8 so bad?

Windows 8 came out at a time when Microsoft needed to make a splash with tablets. But because its tablets were forced to run an operating system built for both tablets and traditional computers, Windows 8 has never been a great tablet operating system. As a result, Microsoft fell behind even further in mobile.

Is Windows 8.1 still supported in 2021?

Update 7/19/2021: Windows 8.1 is long outdated, but technically supported through 2023. If you need to download an ISO to reinstall the full version of the operating system, you can download one from Microsoft here.

Is Windows 8.1 Free for Windows 8 users?

Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 is available as a free upgrade for any PC running Windows 8. With just a few simple steps, you can get important new features, including the ability to see multiple windows in Modern UI, a Start Button and a search function that returns results both from the web and your hard drive.

Can I still use Windows 8.1 in 2021?

Update 7/19/2021: Windows 8.1 is long outdated, but technically supported through 2023. If you need to download an ISO to reinstall the full version of the operating system, you can download one from Microsoft here.

Is it worth upgrading from Windows 8.1 to 10?

If you’re running real Windows 8 or 8.1 on a traditional PC: Upgrade right away. … Windows 10 might work, but it might not be worth the risk. If you’re running Windows 7: Unless you absolutely love one of the Windows 10 new features (most notably Cortana or the gaming features), you should stick with Windows 7.

Should I use Windows 8.1 or Windows 10?

Winner: Windows 10 corrects most of Windows 8’s ills with the Start screen, whilst revamped file management and virtual desktops are potential productivity boosters. An outright victory for desktop and laptop users.

Is Windows 8 good for gaming?

HARDOCP: Windows 8.1 has a consistent performance advantage over Windows 7. This advantage extended not only to the GPU’s, but also to the game performance during play. When it comes to performance, it would appear that NVIDIA is getting the most out of the 8.1 update.

Which version of Windows is best for gaming?

We can consider Windows 10 Home as the best Windows 10 version for gaming. This version is currently the most popular software and according to Microsoft, there is no reason to buy anything latest than Windows 10 Home to run any compatible game.

Is Windows 8.1 or 10 better for gaming?

Windows 10 Offers Better Performance And Framerates

However, the difference in gaming performance between Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10 is comparatively smaller, but rest assured – Windows 10 beats Windows 8/8.1 in basically every performance test out there, even if only by a small margin.

How can I tell if I have home or pro?

1 Answer. You don’t have Pro. If it’s Win 8 Core (what some would consider “Home” version) then the “Pro” simply won’t be displayed. Again, if you have Pro, you’ll see it.

How do I know if I have Windows Pro?

Navigate to System > About and scroll down. You’ll see the “Version” and “Build” numbers here. Edition. This line tells you which edition of Windows 10 you’re using—Home, Professional, Enterprise, or Education.

Is Windows 8 GOOD OR BAD?

Windows 8 was arguably a failure, and we can see very few reasons why you might want to use it over Windows 10. The start menu is far less jarring, providing modern tools and layouts sprinkled with enough familiarity that users won’t feel alienated.

What are the disadvantages of Windows 8?

There is no antivirus for Windows 8, only windows firewall and internet security (but available for win 8 pro), and Apps works only in the full monitor by occupying the full face of the monitor, No side apps can be run while we are using the apps.

Is Windows 8 a flop?

In its attempt to be more tablet friendly, Windows 8 failed to appeal to desktop users, who were still more comfortable with the Start menu, the standard Desktop, and other familiar features of Windows 7. … In the end, Windows 8 was a bust with consumers and corporations alike.

Can I upgrade my Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 for free 2021?

Visit the Windows 10 download page. This is an official Microsoft page that may allow you to upgrade for free. Once you’re there, open the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool (press “download tool now”) and choose “Upgrade this PC now.” … Try using your Windows 7 or Windows 8 license key.

Is Windows 10 or 8.1 better?

Winner: Windows 10 corrects most of Windows 8’s ills with the Start screen, whilst revamped file management and virtual desktops are potential productivity boosters. An outright victory for desktop and laptop users.

Should I update from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10?

If you’re running (real) Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 on a traditional PC. If you’re running Windows 8 and you can, you should update to 8.1 anyway. And if you’re running Windows 8.1 and your machine can handle it (check the compatibility guidelines), I’d recommend updating to Windows 10.

How can I activate my Windows 8.1 for free?


Press ⊞ Win + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)”.

  1. Type slmgr. vbs /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX and press ↵ Enter , replacing the XXXXX s with your product key. Be sure to include the dashes. …
  2. Type slmgr. vbs /ato and press ↵ Enter . A window should appear saying “Activating Windows(R) Your Edition “.

How can I download Windows 8.1 for free?


Here’s how to download the official Windows 8.1 ISO:

  1. Step 1: Go to Microsoft’s page for upgrading to Windows 8 with a product key, then click on the light blue “Install Windows 8” button.
  2. Step 2: Launch the setup file (Windows8-Setup.exe) and enter your Windows 8 product key when prompted.

How do I upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows 8 without a Windows Store?


Get the Windows 8.1 ISO

  1. Click Run at the bottom of Internet Explorer.
  2. In the setup dialog, enter your Windows 8 product key.
  3. Follow the wizard through the next step until Windows 8 starts downloading.
  4. When the download starts – and only at this point – close setup.