To begin, it’s worth pointing out the reasons you might want to upgrade from Windows 7. Even if you love the OS, it’s likely starting to show its age. For one thing, it isn’t nearly as fast as later versions or as secure. Later versions also include more efficient ways to use your computer’s memory, especially with the addition of Microsoft’s cloud network, OneDrive. Another important point is that later versions have built-in ways to support more recent hardware improvements, like high-definition screens and USB 3.0.
Finally, there are numerous features you’ve been missing out on as well, which will be outlined more below. Windows 7 is a great, stable system, but if you are looking for a wide range of improvements, it’s time to look for an upgrade.
Your upgrade options come down to:
Windows 8.1
Improvements in Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 is far faster than Windows 7. In particular, it boots quickly, and Explorer can run quickly with multiple tabs open. The speed comes from adjustments Microsoft made to increase performance through some redesign. That redesign is somewhat controversial, as Windows 8.1 does not look like older versions of Windows, although many features remain, such as the Start button.
The system is also far more secure, with improvements like UEFI making it harder for malware to destroy your bootloader. There are also improvements in the search feature, which connects directly to Bing to bring you the best results quickly. The improvements in the Windows App store make it easier to find the apps you need to get the most out of Windows.
Windows 8.1 System Requirements
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster
- RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for the standard 32-bit version of the OS
- Hard disk space: 16 GB for the 32-bit version
- Graphics card: Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver
Windows 8.1 Summary
As stated above, Windows 8.1 is slightly more controversial than Windows 7 or Windows 10. The improvements are significant, so if you are merely looking for an OS that can run faster and more efficiently with a few new features, it’s an excellent choice. However, if you want to keep the feel of a traditional Windows OS and to get the maximum new features and speed, look to Windows 10 for that.
Windows 10
Windows 10 Improvements
While Windows 8.1 had some nice new features when it first came out, Windows 10 has been a blockbuster from the beginning. First of all, Windows 10 allows you to create a login that will enable you to share all of your information on all your devices. That means your documents, apps, and all the details you’ve set to make the system yours (background pictures, lock screens, etc.) come with you everywhere you go.
Beyond that, there are some other great changes. For one, Windows introduced Cortana, Microsoft’s version of Apple’s Siri. You can use Cortana to search for files or search the internet or else to play music or start games. Speaking of games, Windows 10 comes with the ability to save progress in games through your login, thus allowing you to play anywhere you go on your other devices.
Windows also eliminated the need to make updates immediately, giving you the freedom to choose when you want your updates. All that, and you also have a faster system with more security, and one designed to work with the very impressive Office 365 system.
A final benefit is the return of the more classic Windows look in Windows 10. The layout and colors are what you would expect and make an easier transition from Windows 7.
Windows 10 System Requirements
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor
- RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for the standard 32-bit version of the OS
- Hard disk space: 16 GB for the 32-bit version
- Graphics card: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver
- Display: 800x600
Windows 10 Summary
Windows 10 vastly improves just about every element of Windows 7 and 8.1, from performance to features. The OS has proven a worthy successor and remains very popular. If you are looking for the best upgrade and don’t mind the extra cost, Windows 10 is the right choice.
Buy Your New Windows Software from SoftwareKeep
If you are still struggling to choose which version of Windows to upgrade to, go to SoftwareKeep to find more details about the differences. There, you can also find experts who can advise you on which product can perform the operations you need the most efficiently. Also SoftwareKeep offers the lowest prices anywhere online on Windows and other software, guaranteed. If you are looking for an excellent deal to make Windows 10 affordable, you’ll find nowhere that can give you a lower price than SoftwareKeep.
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