Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 suitable for gaming in 2014 and beyond
Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 suitable for gaming in 2014 and beyond
For those who have used both Win7 and Win8.1 for gaming PLSS, share your thoughts on which version performs better. My setup includes an i7 3820, Asus P9X79 Pro, 16GB Corsair Vengeance OC, 128GB SSD, Seagate Barracuda EVGA GTX 780 SC, OCZ ZS Series 750W, and I'm running Windows 8.1. I'm curious about any benefits or drawbacks each offers for gaming. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.
Visit the site at startisback.com or explore classicshell.net.
Windows 8.1 is the top choice. Avoid Modern UI if you prefer; opt for alternatives like StartIsBack or ClassicShell. I haven’t encountered Modern UI in several months now.
Just set up the classic shell, swap all default apps for ones you prefer, and watch those charms appear from the top corners (classic shell handles the lower left). Next, install Launchy—the top choice. This process might take 1-2 hours, and Windows 8.1 would function like a charm SWIDT. Then wait quietly for Windows 9 to arrive.
Windows 8.1 has some interesting features, but getting accustomed to the Metro interface may take time.
I personally am waiting for 9. I don't mind windows 8 on my laptop where I don't do any serious work, but on my main rig It drove me insane. Even with classic shell, startisback, and other programs it still has problems. WIndows 7 for me until they release something that is an upgrade not a downgrade.
Windows 8.1 with startisback offers a 30-day trial and consumes roughly 0.8 MB of your 8 GB RAM. It provides extensive customization options. I experimented with modernmix and various Stardock applications, but they significantly slowed down my 4-year-old PC. Closing a major application took about 5 seconds instead of the expected milliseconds! People also mention Windows 9 will be free for XP, Vista, and 7 users. At a minimum it should be affordable for XP, and probably free for XP and Vista. These are just some online sources I found. Not confirmed yet, but seems encouraging. [Link to article]
However, avoid assuming free Windows 9 if you already own Windows 8, as Microsoft may not profit from upgrades... [Another link]
Be cautious about free Windows 9 claims if you're using Windows 8, since it could undermine your purchase.