ConsumerReports looks at pros and cons of upgrading operating system and concludes it may be best not to.
An article on ConsumerReports.org compares Windows 7 to the new Windows 8 operating system and suggests that unless using a touchscreen device, it may be better to opt for the older version.
Stating that “many Windows 7 computers are still available from a variety of retailers, and several top our ratings”, the retail website concludes that it may not be worth upgrading to Windows 8, particularly if not using a device operated by a touchscreen as “Windows 8 is all about touch. When you launch it, the opening screen is a touch interface […] without a touchscreen, reasons for upgrading an old system or buying a computer with Windows 8 become less compelling”.
The article also points out that with Windows 8, drivers will still need updating as “some Windows 8 models still are not performing as well as expected, and Windows 7 computers topped many of the new ones”. The fact that Windows 8 lacks many of the familiar features traditionally used by Windows operating systems, such as the “Start” button, is also listed as a possible strike against it; although the article adds that if the idea of an interface featuring “live” tiles that change when emails are received appeals, then Windows 8 may be appreciated.