Consider your needs and compatibility before deciding. Upgrading may improve performance or add new features.
Consider your needs and compatibility before deciding. Upgrading may improve performance or add new features.
Windows 10 definitely outperforms Windows 8.1. Currently, there are very few problems—mostly none since the initial week. However, on a low-power device, if you need extra speed, Linux might be a better option. Mint Cinnamon is likely the top choice for transitioning from Windows, since it retains a similar start menu. Once you're comfortable, WINE can help run Windows apps and games on Linux (though it isn't flawless). Steam also functions well on Linux, offering access to over a thousand titles.
Windows starting from Vista performs well with at least 4GB RAM, matching the speed of Windows 98.1. It may run a bit faster than older versions, though I personally favor Windows 10 for its updated interface and added conveniences such as corner snapping.
For Windows 10, wait for the major update that includes memory compression. The Surface 3 works well with Windows 10 (if you keep the system simple), and the entry-level version comes with 2GB of RAM and an Atom processor.
Well, is there any way to upgrade this bottlenecked notebook??
You can always improve and revert if performance drops, returning to versions 7 or 8.1. However, avoid deleting your old Windows folder; otherwise, you risk losing data when switching back to a previous OS. Additionally, consider waiting a few days after Microsoft releases the new Windows 10 update—perhaps a week later, depending on their schedule.
I recently set up Windows 10 on my mom's PC, which runs an old Athlon X2 7750BE. I noticed it slows down more than Windows 7, especially with only 4GB of RAM.