Windows is the most famous Operating System worldwide. The current version of the Microsoft OS boasts over 1 billion users, which continues to rise. Anyway, the previous versions of Windows 8 and 10 operating systems still work and provide a good performance today also. But, Do you know which OS is better? In this Windows 8 vs Windows 10 article, we mention all the differences and strong points of both OS.

What is Windows 8 Operating System?

Windows 8 was released on August 15, 2012. It meant a great revolution in terms of the search bar, tablet mode, open apps, and much more since the release of Windows XP.

Contrary to the previous version, Windows 8 was the first OS to integrate facial recognition, touch screen technology, and several new features.

What is Windows 10 Operating System?

Windows 10 is the major Windows NT operating system released on July 15, 2015, and the direct successor to Windows 8.1. This version addresses a big part of users worldwide with over 1 billion users. There are several important differences between Windows 10 and 8.1. Next, we’ll discuss the most relevant in-depth.

Start Menu and Interface

Most people complain about the new interface introduced in Windows 8, which focuses heavily on Live Tiles and an interactive app menu. However, this OS was the first to integrate apps expanded to fill the whole screen when you open Windows. 

The Windows 8 start screen is full of software apps, which is great for users with a touch device. Besides, its new start menu incorporates all the features and apps available, making accessibility easier. 

Luckily for most classic users,  Windows 10 brings back the old-fashioned start menu. Ok, it’s a bit different from what you can find in Windows 7 – the Windows 10’s start menu is a mix between Windows 7’s start button and Windows 8’s start screen – but it’s replete with Tiles and Windows Store apps. This makes it easier to find the application you want. With Windows 10 you’ll have a sense of familiarity. 

Just like Windows 7, Windows 10 incorporates the most used and recently installed apps on the left side of the Start menu. Its menu takes the best of Windows 8 – the visual design and the facility to access applications and software – and makes it simpler. 

Regarding the interface, Windows 10 returns to the original design of Windows. Windows 8.1 tries to experiment, especially with touch screens and new technologies. 

When Microsoft designed Windows 8, they tried to make it fit every device forcing the same interface across mobiles, PC, and tablets. We believe this was a mistake. Windows 10, on the other hand, makes a difference between devices by creating a unique interface for each machine. Windows 10 lets a tablet be a tablet and a PC be a PC.

Compatibility and Features

Windows 8 has four different versions, counting 32- and 64-bit versions and one called “RT.” The latter version was thought to enter tablet mode more easily and was used on Microsoft’s own Surface. 

Windows 10 does not make these distinctions between different devices and versions. The RT was ditched several years ago. Microsoft claims to run the new OS on the vast majority of PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones, but some Windows Phone 8 were not adaptable to Windows 10. 

Besides, Windows 10 incorporates some new features that facilitate the functionality of many applications. For example, The Task View application integrates windows management with virtual desktops when you hit Alt Tab. This solution is very similar to that offered by Apple mac OS. Another example is the improved Command Prompt, which now supports a host of new options and hot-keys to type commands directly into your PC.  

One of the most relevant Windows apps that Windows 10 incorporates is Continuum. This feature allows you to synchronize your data across multiple desktops and devices. On a Windows phone, you’ll be able to run a desktop like you’re using a PC. You can use Microsoft Display Lock to connect your phone to a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. 

Cortana is another feature that Microsoft introduced in Windows 10. The digital voice assistant of Microsoft will help you to manage information about everything on your computer. Through voice commands, you can interact with Cortana easily. For example, you can say, “Cortana, find a picture from April,” and the assistant will look for files that fit the order.  

However, other apps, such as Windows Media Center or Windows Movie Maker, have been killed by Microsoft in Windows 10. So, if you want to use these programs, Windows 8 is the option for you, although you can always find new software that replaces the old ones. 

Besides, Windows 10 gets extra features, such as Windows Timeline, which allows you to synchronize activities across devices. 

Regarding Legacy Apps like Internet Explorer, the classic browser, Microsoft Office, or the Control Panel, Windows 10 continues using these apps. Thanks to this, you feel like you’re utilizing your old operating system.

Virtual Desktops

In terms of Virtual Desktops, Windows 8 is very simple. This OS treats the desktop just like another application, which has its advantages and disadvantages. One pro is that you can manage all the applications from one site. The disadvantage is that you’ll have to manage everything – gaming, social tools, etc – on the same full screen. 

Windows 10 allows you to perform as many multiple virtual desktops as your machine can support. This is very useful when you do not have multiple monitors. You can handle these multiple virtual desktops and the universal apps through the Task View. You can access this tool by pressing its icon in the desktop taskbar.

Support

With better integral hardware support, Windows 8 rises as a worthy upgrade for Windows 7 users. In a few words, this OS is a major update for previous versions, performing and adding better control of the running applications and general system processes. 

But we have to mention that the support for Windows 8.1 ends on January 10, 2023. Microsoft apps 365 apps will be no longer supported on Windows 8 and 8.1 after they reach the deadline. This is an important reason to move on to Windows 10 or the earlier version of Windows 11. 

Regarding Windows 10, it receives major updates twice a year. Windows 10 also has some work-from-home improvements, like the following:

• Group Policy Service (GPSVC);
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI);
• Optimized document-opening scenario times for Windows Defender Application Guard;
• Multi-camera support for Windows Hello users.

Security

Windows 8 was the first operating system version integrating built-in antivirus protection. What’s more, Windows 8’s Secure Boot was a gigantic advance in treating threats and malware. The software also shut out some Linux distros. 

However, Windows 10 makes the functions of Secure Boot even harder, preventing users from disabling this feature. This condition assures that your PC will be protected from malware infecting the running and boot process. 

Furthermore, both OS add modern apps for facial and iris recognition to the list of authentication options. Windows 1o even integrates fingerprint reader apps, but your PC must have the appropriate hardware. Multiple devices incorporate a hardware fingerprint, which adds an extra level of security.

Notifications

Another great feature added to Windows 10 is the new Action Center, the central notification area of Windows. In this space, you can check all the notifications of your running apps. All your alerts for new emails, Windows, and security updates will appear here. It works like a quick access section on the right-hand side of your screen to the most relevant notifications.  

This feature is inspired by phone interfaces that are great for touch devices and desktop users. It also shows you recent stories on your social media and the latest updates with a very simple intuitive implementation. Overall, it’s a really useful addition that helps organize all the info Windows throws at you.

Xbox App, DirectX 12, and Gaming

Many users try to find the best operating system for their gaming experience, looking for the best PC settings and performance for their games. Windows 8 do not add anything to these terms. This is why most gamers prefer to stay on Windows 7, even Windows Vista, or move to the new version of Windows. 

Windows 10, on the other hand, integrates new apps related to the gaming world, such as the Xbox App. This is the gaming hub of the company, giving access to Xbox Game Pass and allowing you to chat with friends, track Xbox gaming stats, and more. 

Windows 10 also features a Game Mode, which is the future of PC gaming. This feature allows you to run your favorite games on your laptop or PC without performing issues, even in games with high requirements.

Tablet Mode

This mode makes everything full-screen, providing a more conventional desktop-style interface. If you do not want to enter Tablet Mode and plug a mouse or keyboard, just disable it. This way, you can manage more complicated information and apps. 

This is a great option for hybrid devices, allowing you to pick up the right mode for your actions. For this reason, this Windows 10 feature brings a wide range of possibilities, even on hybrid machines.

Price and Availability

Currently, you can’t buy Windows 8 from the Windows Store any longer, but still, you can get it from third-party vendors for around USD$20. 

Windows 10 is completely available in most online stores. You can purchase it directly from the Microsoft Store at USD$139. You can also buy both versions Pro and Home of Windows 10 in big stores, such as Amazon, at a slightly lower price, around USD$120. 

A good option is to purchase a legit version of Windows 10 from third-party sellers. At this point, we recommend getting instant access to Windows 10 key with RoyalCDkeys. 

Here you find a reliable version of Windows 10 since we buy all our software and PC games CD Keys from official sites. Get yourself  Windows 10 Pro Retail KEY at €2,40 and Windows Home 10 OEM KEY at €2,50.

Should I Buy Windows 8 or Windows 10?

In short, we recommend you acquire and install a Windows 10 NT operating system. Windows 8 was a revolutionary OS but currently is in the past. Of course,  if you already have Windows 7 or 8.1, you can get Windows 10 as a free upgrade. 

The new features such as Microsoft Edge, Cortana, Game Mode, Virtual Desktops, and others assure you an interesting and expanded performance while using this OS. Upgrade to Windows 10 or get Windows 10 CD Key both Home and Retail at RoyalCDKeys and start your experience in the right direction. 

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