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Windows 8

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Company health

Employee growth
3% increase in the last year
Web traffic
11% decrease in the last quarter

Ratings

G2
3.7/5
(505)

Windows 8 description

Windows 8 is a computer operating system released by Microsoft. It features a redesigned, touch-friendly interface, optimized for use with tablets and touchscreen devices. Windows 8 introduces the "live tile" concept for its start menu, offering dynamic content updates. While it retains compatibility with traditional Windows applications, it also introduces a new app platform.


Who is Windows 8 best for

Windows 8 is a touch-friendly operating system ideal for tablets and touchscreen devices. Users praise its fast boot times and smooth performance, but some find the interface challenging. It's suitable for individuals and businesses seeking a modern OS.

  • Best for small, medium, and enterprise businesses.

  • Ideal for Finance, Banking & Insurance, Education, Hospitality & Tourism, Software, IT & Telecommunications, and Professional Services.


Windows 8 features

Supported

Windows 8 supports snapping two apps side by side.

Supported

Windows 8 supports older Windows applications via its Compatibility Mode.

Supported

Windows 8 is designed for touchscreens, offering features to enable, disable, and troubleshoot touch input.

Supported

Windows 8 introduced WinRT and the Windows Store for app development and distribution.

Supported

Windows 8 allows customization of the desktop, lock screen, and Start screen elements like pinning apps and backgrounds.

Qualities

We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the software

Value and Pricing Transparency

Strongly negative
-1

Customer Service

Strongly positive
+1

Ease of Use

Rather positive
+0.52

Reliability and Performance

Neutral
+0

Ease of Implementation

Neutral
+0.2

Windows 8 reviews

We've summarised 505 Windows 8 reviews (Windows 8 G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of Windows 8
  • Fast boot times and smooth system performance.
  • Touchscreen compatibility.
  • USB 3.0 support.
  • Cloud services like OneDrive are easy to use.
  • Enhanced security features, including Secure Boot.
Cons of Windows 8
  • Difficult to find hidden shortcuts.
  • No antivirus included, only firewall and internet security.
  • System crashes and is not designed for desktops.
  • Lags when using graphic tools.
  • Many apps and devices are not supported.

Windows 8 pricing

The commentary is based on 10 reviews from Windows 8 G2 reviews.

While Windows 8 offers a user-friendly experience and broad software compatibility, some users find its pricing a bit high compared to other operating systems. Several reviews mention the cost of the OS and in-app purchases as a drawback. Despite this, many consider its features and functionality worthwhile.

Users sentiment

Strongly negative
-1

Windows 8 alternatives

  • Logo of Apple OS X Mountain Lion
    Apple OS X Mountain Lion
    Connects Mac and iOS, syncing documents and adding new apps.
    Read more
  • Logo of Windows 11
    Windows 11
    Modern, secure OS for productivity, gaming, and streamlined design.
    Read more
  • Logo of Windows 11
    Windows 11
    Modern, secure operating system for seamless productivity and entertainment.
    Read more
  • Logo of Windows App SDK
    Windows App SDK
    Modern Windows app development toolkit for enhanced performance and visuals.
    Read more
  • Logo of Windows 7
    Windows 7
    User-friendly operating system for easier computing.
    Read more
  • Logo of Zorin
    Zorin
    Linux that looks and feels like Windows or macOS.
    Read more

Windows 8 FAQ

  • What is Windows 8 and what does Windows 8 do?

    Windows 8 is a Microsoft operating system with a touch-friendly interface designed for tablets and touchscreen devices. It features "live tiles" for dynamic content updates and a new app platform while maintaining compatibility with traditional Windows applications.

  • How does Windows 8 integrate with other tools?

    Windows 8 integrates with older Windows applications via Compatibility Mode. It also features a new app platform, WinRT, and the Windows Store for modern apps. Additionally, it offers cloud service integration with OneDrive.

  • What the main competitors of Windows 8?

    Top alternatives to Windows 8 include Windows 11, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Debian, Windows Server, and Ubuntu Server. These operating systems offer various features, catering to different needs and preferences, from touch-friendly interfaces to robust server functionalities.

  • Is Windows 8 legit?

    Windows 8 is a legitimate, albeit discontinued, Microsoft operating system. While no longer supported by Microsoft, it is safe to use if you have appropriate security measures in place. Consider upgrading to a supported system like Windows 11 for optimal performance and security.

  • How much does Windows 8 cost?

    I cannot find pricing details for Windows 8. Contact a vendor or retailer for information on Windows 8 product pricing and whether it's worth the cost.

  • Is Windows 8 customer service good?

    Windows 8 customer support receives positive feedback, described as "awesome" and "very good". However, some users found the troubleshooting process unclear when encountering bugs.


Reviewed by

MK
Michal Kaczor
CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

TT
Tymon Terlikiewicz
CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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