Microsoft Windows 8.1

Name: Microsoft Windows 8.1
Brand: Microsoft
Rating: 3.5 (3 reviews)

3.5 (6)

5 Critic Reviews

3 Reviews

0 wishlisted

4 saved

Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Microsoft Windows 8.1: Installing Store and Desktop Apps

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Why I still use Windows 8.1 in 2020...

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Windows 8.1 vs 10

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Using Windows 8.1 store in 2023

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PROS

Works flawlessly with FL Studio 11
Compatible with touch-based laptops, enhancing usability
Start menu issues can be fixed with 3rd party software

CONS

Annoying update notifications during video rendering
Largely touch-based interface may not suit non-touch devices

Critic Reviews

Microsoft Windows 8.1 Review | PCMag

pcmag.com

Windows 8.1 Update is a significant improvement for mouse and keyboard users, offering faster startup, better usability, and a seamless integration of classic and modern apps. While it doesn't introduce groundbreaking features, its focus on performance tweaks and user-friendly interface enhancements makes it a worthy upgrade. However, its dual nature may still confuse traditional users, and the Windows app store lacks some major titles. Despite these minor setbacks, the update successfully bridges the gap between touch and non-touch devices, making it a commendable step forward for Microsoft's hybrid OS vision.

positive

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Microsoft Windows 8.1 review: Improved Windows still torn between tablet future and PC past - CNET

cnet.com

Windows 8.1 offers useful tweaks like a new Start button, better search, and improved app store, enhancing the Windows 8 experience without revolutionizing it. While the update is free for current users and adds value, it doesn't resolve the awkward split between traditional desktop and touch-centric interfaces. Non-touch users will find navigation cumbersome, and the app store still lacks robust software options. For Windows 8 users, it's a no-brainer upgrade, but Windows 7 loyalists won't be swayed. Overall, Windows 8.1 improves functionality but doesn't address fundamental flaws, leaving a mixed impression.

neutral

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Windows 8.1 review | TechRadar

techradar.com

Windows 8.1 marks a step forward from its predecessor, bringing back the Start button and improving performance, much to the delight of traditional PC users. The integration with SkyDrive and personalization options are commendable enhancements. However, users might struggle to adapt initially, and the absence of touch apps for Office and limited IE 11 support can be frustrating. Background updates for Windows Store apps also lack visibility. While it doesn't completely solve Windows 8's issues, Windows 8.1 is a welcome update, paving the way for a more touch-centric future.

positive

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Windows 8.1 review - The Verge

theverge.com

Windows 8.1 aims to mend the rift between traditional desktop users and the touch-centric vision of Windows 8. The return of a Start button, improved Snap Views, and SkyDrive integration are noteworthy enhancements. The universal search powered by Bing is a welcome change, offering a rich search experience. However, the OS still presents challenges for traditional keyboard and mouse users, and the lack of compelling Windows 8-style apps is a significant drawback. While it's a step in the right direction, Windows 8.1 feels like a necessary patch rather than a complete solution. The sentiment is cautiously optimistic, but much remains to be improved.

neutral

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Windows 8.1: What a difference a year makes - Ars Technica

arstechnica.com

Windows 8.1 is a solid improvement over its predecessor, successfully addressing key shortcomings of Windows 8. It refines the touch interface and introduces a more cohesive user experience across PCs and tablets. The reintroduction of familiar elements like the Start button and enhanced settings make it more user-friendly. However, the disconnect between the desktop and Metro apps remains, and the ecosystem still lacks compelling applications. While not perfect, Windows 8.1 is a step forward in Microsoft's goal of a unified OS across devices, yet it still leaves room for future enhancements.

neutral

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star

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2 star

1 star

bootyfkr

218

over 8 years ago

Let Me Tell You Something

This is the best mother fucking operating system I've ever used. All the complaints about the start menu can be easily fixed with 3rd party software. The only thing bad about it is when I'm rendering video and this fucking message pops up that says there needs to be some bullshit update then once you restart your pc nothing changes and on top of that you have to render the video again.

stringtone

1608

over 11 years ago

Pretty good

I don't really get why people hate on this. I mean, yeah, it's largely touch based, but my laptop has touch, so besides that, it actually works really well. Do not be afraid of it, it actually works really well.

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