POSTS
Review by Jr Ranger Cowboy
Microsoft Windows 8.1 is very different from the previous versions of MS Windows. MS Windows 8 and 8.1 tries to be two things in one package, an operating system for both desktop computers and tablet computers. There is a bit of a learning curve for finding all of the functions of the computer. This version also requires that you log in with Microsoft Account. It is used for saving all of your settings and passwords as well as buy and downloading Apps in the Windows Store. Other than having a quicker boot up time and having the Start Screen, MS Windows 8.1 seems to be a lot like MS Windows 7.
As a Mac user and a long time MS Windows user, I still have to look for things when I want to change a setting or something. There seem to be settings in the Control Panel for the Desktop mode and most of classic windows settings. There is also another pane of the Start Screen for settings that have to deal with the Tiles and the Start Screen. It seemed kind of odd, that I had to go into the desktop mode to set up my printer and that there is only current apps that then could access the printer in the Tile mode. Also I think what is odd, is that Internet Explorer in the Tile mode does not carry over all the settings that I have set for Internet Explorer in the desktop mode. I think this is kind of crazy. This is just one of the may interesting aspects of the new version of MS Windows.nMS Windows 8.1 is a vision of having one inter face for both traditional computers as well as new touch computing devices. I would only recommend this for people who are true MS Windows fan boys or someone who thinks they will really like the new Start Screen interface. Otherwise I think it might be kind of confusing for some people. I would say that it was a good try on Microsofts part but it seems a little too awkward unless its being used on a touchscreen.
If things were more organized and easier to find, I could give this a higher rating than three stars. MS Windows 7 seem to make was a good operating system and seemed to be more organized. I would say that this is better than MS Windows Vista. I think this is a good upgrade of you want the new Start Screen interface other wise you are not missing much with MS Windows 7.
My use of MS Windows 8.1 has been just on traditional desktop computer without a touchscreen interface (HP Pavilion Slimline s5-1120 Desktop PC).