Solved When should I install apps from the Windows Store?

[noob]

Hi,

I'm new to Windows 8.1 and just discovered the Windows Store. What are the advantages or disadvantages of using the Windows Store? it doesn't contain many of the apps I've needed so far, and for like VLC there is a store offering but you can download VLC from the VideoLAN website - when should I install apps from the Store vs download them from the suppliers website?

Thanks

Noob

 

[strollin]

You download apps from the Windows Store when you want touch optimized "modern" apps. If you aren't using a touch enabled computer then you are probably better off installing/running the regular Windows desktop program (if available) since the "modern" apps found in the Store are generally not as full featured.

 

[CountMike]

Well, not exactly right about all Apps being unfriendly with mouse, most of them run just fine without touch screen but I can't find any good ones except for few games.

 

[strollin]

Well, not exactly right about all Apps being unfriendly with mouse, most of them run just fine without touch screen but I can't find any good ones except for few games.

Nothing was said about apps being "unfriendly with mouse".

 

[CountMike]

What about "when you want touch optimized "modern" apps." ?

 

[strollin]

What about "when you want touch optimized "modern" apps." ?

Touch optimized does not mean the same thing as mouse unfriendly. A touch optimized app uses large buttons and links that are created so they can be easily used by touch. A standard desktop app is not touch optimized and uses smaller buttons and menus/sub-menus that are more difficult (not impossible) to use by touch.

Compare the "modern" version of IE which is touch optimized with the desktop version of IE, they are both usable with a mouse but the modern version of IE is easier to use by touch than its counterpart.

For me, when I use my tablet running Win 8.1, I use apps from the Store since they are much easier to use on a touch only device with no mouse/keyboard. However, on my laptop with mouse/keyboard, I tend to stick with standard desktop apps.

 

[CountMike]

What about "when you want touch optimized "modern" apps." ?

Touch optimized does not mean the same thing as mouse unfriendly. A touch optimized app uses large buttons and links that are created so they can be easily used by touch. A standard desktop app is not touch optimized and uses smaller buttons and menus/sub-menus that are more difficult (not impossible) to use by touch.

Well, you made it sound like all of them can not be used with anything else but fingers. The very few of them I have can't be even used with touch.

 

[noob]

very helpful strollin, thank you. I have a touchscreen so will explore the windows store before seeking alternative installs.