Windows 7 to Windows 8: The system's biggest improvements

The most talked-about issue in the lead-up to Microsoft's launch of Windows 8 is the new Start screen, featuring the Modern UI. But Windows 8 has much more to offer than just a revamped interface.

The operating system includes fundamental enhancements, such as better multiple-monitor setups, an overhauled Windows Explorer, cloud-based account syncing, and new ways to personalize your desktop.

Here are 15 improvements to Windows that you'll want to check out in Microsoft's latest OS, including some new tools in the Modern UI.

Some of these improvements have no corresponding feature in Windows 7. If they do, we'll show you what they look like in Windows 7 and (for comparison) provide a screenshot showing how they are enhanced in Windows 8. Let’s dive in.

Source

A Guy
 
In that list, other than bootup times yet again, nothing shows a performance gain over 7. Lots of cosmetic changes you can make, but nothing that actually makes windows faster.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    W7
There are notable performance benefits, namely a more leaner system. Less RAM, less disk usage, less CPU usage all leads up to better performance and efficiency. That I do like.

One of the best things I think about Windows 8 over 7 is device discovery and driver installs, mostly because I don't really ever have to find drivers anymore. I was installing 8 on a puter with an HP printer, plugged it in, and was working in less than 30 seconds. Before with 7, I would had to track down the driver CD or find the driver online. I also have seen this happen with USB wifi adapters, plug it in and go! Before in 7, I would have to install the driver and usually restart.

MUCH better and MUCH easier than 7!
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS
    CPU
    AMD FX 8320
    Motherboard
    Crosshair V Formula-Z
    Memory
    16 gig DDR3
    Graphics Card(s)
    ASUS R9 270
    Screen Resolution
    1440x900
    Hard Drives
    1 TB Seagate Barracuda (starting to hate Seagate)
    x2 3 TB Toshibas
    Windows 8.1 is installed on a SanDisk Ultra Plus 256 GB
    PSU
    OCZ 500 watt
    Case
    A current work in progres as I'll be building the physical case myself. It shall be fantastic.
    Cooling
    Arctic Cooler with 3 heatpipes
    Keyboard
    Logitech K750 wireless solar powered keyboard
    Mouse
    Microsoft Touch Mouse
    Browser
    Internet Explorer 11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender, but I might go back on KIS 2014
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