Upgrading to Windows 8.1 from XP

wildest_jjk · 26 Apr 2014 at 14:13

Hi guys,

I am building two computers for different members of my family. They have a very limited amount of experience with computers in general. Currently they have been using Windows XP.

I am unsure whether to install Windows 7 or 8.1. What would you guys suggest?

Thanks

OverDrive · 26 Apr 2014 at 15:41

I would advise you to go straight to 8.1, despite criticism, it is a very streamlined OS, even more so after the latest 8.1 update, which also made things better for non-touch users. Hopefully another update later this year will bring back the Start menu.

Windows 7 will be 5 years old later this year, so generally best to migrate to the current OS. In fact, the under the hood changes in Windows 8.1 blow 7 away.

Windows 8.1 will however present a steep learning curve for a less experienced XP user. Could you wait until the next update comes out later this year, having the Start menu back will make all the difference.

I know some don't like it, my Dad for example insisted on Windows 7 for his new PC.

UPDATE: Just thought, XP is now out of support, so you would want to move away from it ASAP. You could move them to Windows 8.1 and install one of the several third party classic Start menus (just as an interim step until the next update).

Memphis · 26 Apr 2014 at 16:08

Agree with OverDrive.

Trust me, my own mother and my mother-in-law are really not the most tech savvy people, yet they use 8.1 daily with no issues what so ever.

PapaLazaru · 26 Apr 2014 at 16:27

If they have limited experience they will take to 8.1 with ease. If they were experienced PC users who cannot handle change they would hate it.

KIA · 26 Apr 2014 at 17:12

Windows 8.1 with Start8 or StartIsBack if necessary. Don't throw them in at the deep end.

Memphis · 26 Apr 2014 at 17:19

KIA said:
Windows 8.1 with Start8 or StartIsBack if necessary. Don't throw them in at the deep end.

Why not? I did with no problems what so ever.

Elevon · 26 Apr 2014 at 17:27

KIA said:
Windows 8.1 with Start8 or StartIsBack if necessary. Don't throw them in at the deep end.

Parents are not stupid,my mum(at 70) can handle Windows,Linux and Android quite fine,Win8.1 is a breeze.

Worst case is just sit down with them and show them the basics,its not hard at all,give parents credit for being intelligent and not stupid.

OverDrive · 26 Apr 2014 at 19:02

Parents are not stupid,my mum(at 70) can handle Windows,Linux and Android quite fine,Win8.1 is a breeze.

That's really cool

Worst case is just sit down with them and show them the basics,its not hard at all,give parents credit for being intelligent and not stupid.

Very wise words!

wildest_jjk · 27 Apr 2014 at 13:18

Thanks everyone for your responses.

I pretty much agree with everything which is good. Windows 7 will be quite a few years old all ready so it does make sense. Again my concern with Windows 8.1 was the fact there are still quite major changes on their way, mainly the start menu.

However as they are on Windows XP I need to get things moving pretty quickly so I think Windows 8.1 is the best option. There seems to be some disagreement regarding parents and their abilities. This is understandable and I think it is down to each person. My father and auntie both have very limited experience but as long as 8.1 is setup right I think it will look pretty similar to Windows 7 (I'm not actually using 8.1).

Regarding the start menu, as this is coming back then surely it might be best to use a third party equivalent. I only say this as it will probably be confusing again when Microsoft change it. Which would be the most similar to the one that will come as part of the Microsoft update?

Thanks everyone

Glaucus · 27 Apr 2014 at 13:24

Show them how to use 8.1, they'll find it easier than the old desktop.

My mum, does far more on it now, since win8, as it is far easier to use. Common settings through the use if charm, and a store makes a massive difference for such person.

KIA · 27 Apr 2014 at 17:27

wildest_jjk said:
My father and auntie both have very limited experience but as long as 8.1 is setup right I think it will look pretty similar to Windows 7 (I'm not actually using 8.1).

Regarding the start menu, as this is coming back then surely it might be best to use a third party equivalent. I only say this as it will probably be confusing again when Microsoft change it. Which would be the most similar to the one that will come as part of the Microsoft update?

Good man. I'm sure they'll appreciate your effort & understanding.

I don't know if you want a free or paid start menu. StartIsBack is fairly similar to the hybrid prototype shown off by Microsoft. You can buy two copies for 5 USD.

Here is a list of some of the others.

See here if you need a Windows 8.1 Update integrated ISO.