Windows 8.1 was released a year after Windows 8. There were some changes in the latest release but these might be indistinguishable for the average user. Windows 8 was specifically introduced as the operating system to handle touch-screen functions on mobile devices as well as desktops. This also makes hybrid systems easy to use. The 8.1 update was designed to re-connect with the traditional users of the previous Windows OS. Among the changes are the following:
- The update allows users to directly boot into the traditional Desktop instead of the default tile interface of Windows 8.
- The Start button is definitely back.
- More app tiles can be put on the screen so that multitasking is better accommodated.
- The search function underwent a major overhaul. It is now sufficiently better to search across different systems and also includes SkyDrive.
Do Windows 8.1 Only Work Best on Tablets?
Well, the whole operating system is basically designed to be used on touch-screen devices. A wide mobile device such as tablets really combines well with the new features and interface flow. This does not mean that you need a tablet in order to enjoy 8.1. You can also use the OS under the Desktop Mode. Touch gestures can be replicated by mouse actions as well as keyboard strokes.
Is the Start Button Completely Back?
The disappearance of the traditional Start Button from Windows 8 was definitely the biggest issue in the reception of the OS. The Start Button is brought back in 8.1 along with a shortcut to the tile interface menu. Additional options are also included.
System Requirements
Here’s a list of the minimum requirement to be able to run the OS:
- 1GHz processor which supports SSE2, NX and PAE
- 1GB RAM for 32-bit systems, 2GB RAM for 64-bit systems
- 16GB storage for 32-bit systems, 20GB for 64-bit systems
- DirectX9 installed complete with driver for WDDM
Best Platform for Windows 8.1
A touch-screen device is still the best platform to enjoy and use Windows 8.1. Among mobile devices, Microsoft Surface Pro 2 and Sony Vaio Tap 11 are highly recommended. For hybrid laptops, the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga and the Samsung Ativ Book 9 Plus are promising contenders.
Upgrading to 8.1
This is an important discussion to make. There are loyal traditionalists and there are also those who welcome this new release with open arms. These are some points that might help you decide on whether to jump in or not yet.
- For Windows 8 users: Upgrading to 8.1 is absolutely free and easy to do. The upgrade comes with new features and functions.
- For Windows 7 or previous users: Your system is definitely not yet suited to adapt the new technology of this new OS, considering the touch-screen features. You might need to upgrade to a new system first before you can enjoy the new features of 8.1.
Pros of 8.1
- 1 definitely have the fastest boot-up of any Windows operating system.
- The Help feature is also revamped.
- The Mail application is improved.
- Mouse and keyboard functionality is greatly streamlined to cater to replication of touch gestures.
- Free to upgrade from Windows 8 systems.
- Modern and traditional Windows applications have been greatly integrated.
- Re-introduction of Start Button built with additional features and options.
- Allows the user to boot directly to Desktop mode.
Cons of 8.1
- Dual interface nature can be quite tricky to new users.
- Gamers might not be interested that much because the app store currently does not offer a lot of games.
- The app store for Windows definitely lacks some major titles.
- Although the touch gestures can be done via mouse and keyboard strokes, it is definitely easier to use touch-screen devices for 8.1.
- Compared to OS X Maverick, the apps need more fine-tuning.
- The Start Button is there but it doesn’t give the usual functionality as before.
Bottom Line
Windows 8.1 product key is built around the idea of making touch screen devices more functional and effective by enabling mouse and keyboard strokes to replicate touch gestures. This allows desktop loyalists to freely update to the touch screen environment and return to their traditional system interface.
It is still best to stick with your Windows 7 versions if you don’t really need the touch screen features of the Windows 8.1. The development of the touch community is still under works and it will definitely take more time to progress. In the meantime, you can still enjoy your traditional system for your needs and leisure.
Windows 8.1 product key
48934D-ERJ3483-E93JR83-E4934JE83-ERJ39RJ8
RJ39R9-RJ949RJ-ERO4EJ-ROERJ4IRJ-ERJEIEW
Windows 8.1 Product Key ( 32 Bit )
XKY4K-EIW94-8F6P2-FJSIE-RUIE8
TK8TP-FHEUD-DFHUE-RFFTV-RHEUW
QXV7B-FHJDU-QGPR6-DFJEU-FHUDS
DFHUE-3YY9P-DFHUE-7J4YF-DFHUE
FB4WR-FUEHS-DFKER-XQFWH-SDHJ
Windows 8.1 Product Key ( 64 Bit )
9G4HW-DFHJS-733KW-DFJSU-JDFHS
SDHUE-9KQ84-DFJSI-D8GGY-FJSW4
DHJSU-9J96P-SDHJS-RFFTV-DJSUW
XWCHQ-CDMYC-SDHJS-BWWTV-SDJWU
NG4HW-VH26C-SDYEG-K6F98-SDHJW
Windows 8.1 Product/Serial Keys 2021:
32JNW-DJSDE-P47T8-FHJSU-DJSDE
SDHJS-2NXM9-SDHJS-MHCB7-DHJSD
JMNMF-SDBJS-DMY6X-SDUEW-SDUWH