Compare Windows 7 and 8.1 – a useful guide to see which is better.
Compare Windows 7 and 8.1 – a useful guide to see which is better.
Consider your setup carefully. If you're using an SSD as the boot drive for a high-end rig, go with Windows 7. It offers better performance and stability for gaming. You'll likely get more out of it, especially if you prefer the classic theme and don’t mind the Metro interface. Windows 8.1 is newer but less compatible with older hardware and preferences.
If you value performance metrics, consider skipping updates for software with limited support.
End of extended assistance in 2020... http://windows.microsoft.com/en-ca/windows/lifecycle
Choose version 8.1, you can turn off the metro UI (if you weren't aware), it offers quicker startup, faster app launches, better overall performance, and compatibility with the latest Direct X 11.2 and 12 once they arrive.
It won't be available to consumers soon, and I think using a tech preview as the main operating system isn't a smart move.
8.1 usually starts up quicker and often achieves higher frame rates during games, though if you prefer Windows 7, it’s a small difference that doesn’t really change much
After changing the Metro display to a Start screen, it seems unclear why this matters.