Windows 7 Or 8.1?

[Impret-Sir]

Like many Windoes XP users I am now considering an upgrade, but I am usung it as an excuse to get a new PC. Not sure what OS to choose though. I want to use my old display, so I realise I wont be able to use 8.1s touchscreen ability, but Im not bothered about that, and part of me thinks its a bit crazy to buy a system that obsolete when I get it, (7), but will this be a bit easier to get used to useing than the totally different 8.1 front end? I cant decide!

Also, anyone know anything about Mesh computers? I know they went bust a while back, but they seem to be up and running again, and have some good priced kit at the moment, but also, I have read a few scare stories about customer service issues.....

[HansUrbancka]

I have read so many criticisms of W8 I would be opting for W7 if I were buying a new computer.

My first computer was a Mesh, perhaps that should read 'Mess' because it wasn't without problems. Customer Service could have been a lot better. I suppose it depends upon who has taken over the firm to be able to judge what Mesh is like nowadays.

Hans.

[AB Editor]

Go for Windows 8, it'll be updated and supported for longer. Unless you know you're completely unable to deal with change, then this is the option to go for.

Additionally, the next version will allow you to start on the desktop and run metro apps in Windows as you currently do, so if you do hate it, they're on their way to "sorting it out" shortly :)

[tamborine]

Am in a time warp with Wxp. Ive got W8 on a new (gift) lappy but hate it coz it jumps programs causing loss of work. I wouldnt upgrade thru choice & XP covers me atm

[Buenchico]

I'd go for Windows 7 and (assuming that your not planning on using your PC for resource-hungry applications such as the latest all-action games or professional video-editing) I'd buy a refurbished base unit like this one:
http://www.accomputerwarehouse.com/product-info/hp-compaq-dc7900-intel-core-2-duo-e7400-4-gb-ram-500-gb-hd-win-7
(I can highly recommend that company for the quality of their products and their excellent customer service)

[HansUrbancka]

@Impret-Sir.....It's always good advice from Chris ( Buenchicho) and the base unit which he has suggested is certainly a bargain.

@tamborine...I say.."Stick with XP for as long as possible". Regard your gift lappy as an emergency back-up item. XP is going to be safe to use for at least a further two yrs.

Hans.

[perose]

I have windows 8 and my IT man took off the apps so that it is the same as XP to look at !

[Impret-Sir]

My display is a perfectly adequate flatscreen, and we use the pc for the usual general stuff that most people do! Home office, internet, streaming footy from p2p sites, that kind of thing!

[tamborine]

Consider peripherals ie digi camera/videos/printer etc. Software needs to be reinstalled & are they compatible?

[HansUrbancka]

If you are happy with your Monitor and XP is working alright, why fork out money at this stage to buy something which is possibly less efficient than what you have already.

I reckon that if you have a good Anti Virus programme, then XP will outlast your computer. Wait a while longer is my view, before rushing out to buy something new.

Hans.

[galeck1947]

I would go for a Windows 7 computer as a replacement. You can still buy a Windows 7 desktop or laptop from HP go to their website and check it out. You can ask your local computer store to order one for you. This is because of the end of XP support and people don't want Windows 8 or 8.1

[Matheous-2]

Not being a Windoze user, but having used W8 on a friends PC - You will have difficulty finding a PC with W7 pre-loaded. But, if I had to use Windoze of any kind, I would try for W7 - W8 is dire awful!
I was confronted with the 'simple' task of transferring emailed images using W8.1 to an ad in Gumtree and finished up carrying out the whole task with my iPad!

[bibblebub]

you don't have to use apps in W8+, you can do everything in the desktop with the advantage of being completely up-to-date