Windows 8 or 10: advantages and disadvantages in comparison

With Windows 10, Microsoft is entering a new era: The current operating system is constantly being updated with new features and runs on PCs as well as on smartphones and tablets. The predecessor Windows 8 is also still supported, but has to struggle with a bad reputation - right? We show in comparison whether you should choose Windows 8 or Windows 10.

Advantages and disadvantages of Windows 8

Windows 8 is unpopular with most users: the missing start menu and the controversial Metro design are among the main reasons. The update to Windows 8.1 brought some improvement, but the core problems remained.

• Windows 8 is one of the most radical steps in the history of the Windows OS. Microsoft said goodbye to the classic layout and replaced it with the Metro design (also Modern UI). The tiles should improve the operation on tablets and hybrid devices.
• Microsoft may have succeeded in doing this, but users of conventional desktop PCs felt ignored. Controlling the operating system via mouse and keyboard leaves something to be desired.
• The missing start button in particular caused problems, but it is available again in Windows 8.1.
• Windows 8 is not without any advantages either. For example, the Charms Bar is nice for quick access to certain system functions such as search and settings. Compared to the predecessor, the faster connection to WiFi hotspots and the significantly faster system start are also important.

Advantages and disadvantages of Windows 10

Windows 10 retains most of these advantages and is combined with useful new features and a much more practical user interface.

• The user interface of Win10 is more reminiscent of Windows 7 and is therefore much more useful on the PC than that of Windows 8. However, Microsoft has not completely dropped the tiles, depending on the setting they can be found, for example, in the Start menu. This pleases users of smartphones and tablets and is hardly at the expense of desktop users.
• The new language assistance program Cortana can, for example, take over the search at Bing or the appointment management. The functionality is reminiscent of Apple's Siri and Google Now.
• The new Microsoft Edge browser, which replaces the now optional Internet Explorer as a standard program, is available exclusively for Windows 10. Edge gets by without the many legacies of IE, is significantly faster and therefore does not have to shy away from comparison with Chrome or Firefox. However, the availability of addons is still very limited.
• The new virtual desktops that can be used to switch between different work surfaces are practical.
• DirectX 12 is interesting for gamers. The new graphics standard is said to improve game performance and is supported by some current and many upcoming titles. DirectX 12 only works under Windows 10. You can find an overview of the compatible graphics cards via the link.
• Since Windows 10 runs on all device types, you can easily synchronize data and use it anywhere. To do this, however, you have to register with a Microsoft account.
• The constant, automatic distribution of updates ensures the highest possible security.
• The Microsoft Store is controversial: Users get numerous programs for the Windows platform here, but experts fear that Microsoft has too much control.
• Data protection under Windows 10 is also a topic of discussion. Microsoft collects significantly more data by default than in previous versions. You can, however, specify the transmission of this telemetry data yourself in numerous setting options.

Windows 8 or Windows 10 - which is the better operating system?

In retrospect, Windows 8 looks like an experimental intermediate step to Windows 10: the new version is more sophisticated, user-friendly, and more secure. Windows 10 manages the balancing act between PC and tablet use without compromising too much. If you are faced with the choice, you should opt for the latest Microsoft OS. The update is free until July 29, 2016 for users of Windows 7 and Windows 8.

Microsoft: 10 reasons to update to Windows 10

Our most important practical tips for Windows 10 can be found via the link.