Microsoft's latest operating system has so far given the company "modest" reviews, but is that due to the reviews?
According to Michael Muchmore, the new operating system "may be the biggest gamble in technology history."
From PC Mag, the positives of Windows 8 is the faster boot times, "excellent" touch input, new, fast, and compatible Internet Explorer 10 browser, better multi-monitor support, and more informative task manager and file transfer dialogs, to name a few.
The negatives were the "unfamiliar and sometimes unintuitive interface navigation." It added there were fewer tablet apps compared to rival operating systems as well as the different separate control panels and browsers could cause confusion to the user.
Overall, it is a "bold innovation" but could be "too drastic" for some that are unfamiliar with the product.
According to Dana Wollman, "What we've learned -- and what we couldn't fully appreciate before testing some of these new devices -- is that Windows 8 is at its best when you have the option of interacting with it using your fingers."
Wollman added that most "enchanting" features from Windows 8 are best when using it as a touchscreen than with a mouse.
The Engadget noted that if you're currently an owner of a older system that doesn't support touchscreen, then stay with Windows 7 or buy a new PC.
"For people with more touch-friendly hardware, though, Windows 8 is easier to use than you may have feared."
CNET:
The folks of CNET stated the new Microsoft operating system "embraces the future wholeheartedly."
Similar to the PC Mag review, CNET noted the boot times as fast along with the log-in times. It added that the apps look "gorgeous," and syncing capabilities brings "seamless" transition when linking devices.
The bad is very simple, "The learning curve is steep and in-app navigation isn't obvious. There are just too many known unknowns here."
Overall, Windows 8 is an "aggressive, forward-thinking, and bold statement" when it comes to the future of PCs.
"After spending the better part of a year with various forms of in-development Windows 8, we're giving it a strong recommendation in no small part because of its value. If you're running a Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7 computer, upgrading will cost you $40. That's worth it alone for the security and speed enhancements, not to mention the better driver and utility support."
According to Loyd Case, despite the transformation the desktop was given, it is similar to the older versions, except for the absence of a full Start menu, which "may throw you off at first."
"Using hotkeys, and customizing the desktop and Start screen, might help you become more comfortable in the short run. Once you get used to navigating the system, it's as transparent as the old one-just different," added Case.
PC Advisor:
Jim Martin refers Windows 8 as Microsoft's game-changing operating system, adding it is the biggest change since Windows 95.
Similar to previews reviews on the operating system being too "drastic" and very unfamiliar for new users, Martin stated "for a few minutes and chances are you'll hate it."
He noted the speed and security enhancements compared to its predecessor - Windows 7.
"It's important to remember that Windows 8 is effectively a brand new operating system. Yes, it will run your old Windows programs, but as far as Modern [User Interface (UI)] apps are concerned (and Windows RT tablets), this is just the beginning."
Alexandra Chang says Microsoft is "tucking the old, desktop-focused Windows skin into its back pocket" for a "colorful, touch-friendly suit of tiles" with Windows 8.
Continuing with the trend that users will hate it first, Chang noted that she has come to "really enjoy using it." She admits feeling "lost" and "baffled" in the beginning and echoing PC World's Case mentioned the lack of the Start Menu.
Overall, the positives for Windows 8 was the multitasking capabilities for its apps, touch and trackpad use makes navigating "a breeze," and the $40 price tag when upgrading. The negatives is the lack of apps at the Windows Store and reiterates how users will need to take their time in learning how to use the operating system.
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