Microsoft has always turned heads with its new releases. When Windows 7 was released in 2009, it took the world by storm, and Windows Vista became obsolete, but even then, people were reluctant to move on from an OS they had grown accustomed to.
I observed people being conflicted once more when Microsoft released Windows 10. I get this question from my friends and family all the time: “What Windows would you download?” or “Windows 10 vs Windows 7 for new PC, what do you recommend?”. Although Windows 7 had its day in the sun, I certainly have my preferences.
People who prefer Windows 7 argue, “Windows 10 is just bulkier, it’s annoyingly slow”, whereas people who prefer the upgrade believe it to be safer, more reliable.
So what IS the right choice? Let’s walk through all the pros and cons in terms of performance, security, features, privacy and see which OS version is right for you. To each their own, right?
Which Performs Better (Faster or Slower)? Windows 10 vs Windows 7
When it comes to the speed of your OS, there are several phases of the process to consider, as well as the hardware you’re running the software on. People usually just judge the speed based on boot time, but that is not the only deciding factor. When it comes to Windows 10 vs Windows 7 performance-wise or speed-wise, here are the points to consider.
Boot Times: Side-by-side comparisons show that when booting up, Windows 10 performs faster on SSDs, but it is slower on old HDDs. Windows 7, however, outshines Windows 10 when it's working in its domain. It is much faster on old HDDs, but it does not take advantage of the SSD speeds.
RAM and CPU usage: Windows 10 has a better support system in place in terms of RAM usage, such as Cortana and Windows Defender, whereas Windows 7 is lighter and works much better if you’re strapped for RAM or have a low-end PC. It works with impressive speeds on older hardware.
Gaming: Windows 10 is the best choice for gamers because it works with DirectX 12 and is optimized for new GPUs and games, whereas Windows 7 supports DirectX 11, which can hold them back during gameplay or tournaments, especially if the opponent is working with a DirectX 12.
Responsiveness: Windows 10 runs more smoothly on newer computers and lets you do more at once. If you have an older computer, Windows 7 is your best bet because it is a lighter OS.
Overall, if you have simple tasks and simpler hardware, Windows 7 should be your go-to, but if you have modern hardware and need better multitasking and gaming experiences, Windows 10 is the one for you.
Security and Support: Windows 10 vs Windows 7
In this day and age, data security and protection from malware are crucial, so let’s break down Windows 10 vs Windows 7 security features. Consider this:
Windows 7 stopped receiving updates by 2020, which means any holes in the security system are no longer going to be patched up. Windows 10, however, remains secure with its consistent updates, debugging and removing any gaps in the system’s security.
Further fortifying Windows 10 is Windows Defender, a built-in antivirus software, making it ideal for users when they are online and exposed to a multitude of viruses and phoney websites.
All of that aside, users (myself included) might find the constant updates a bit disruptive to our day-to-day use, but it is also important to recognize that those updates are necessary to maintain a safe online presence.
When you’re online, you are connected to a vast network of servers and computers. Although on the surface web most websites can be deemed safe, you might find yourself on the receiving end of malware or data breaches by users who are less than friendly.
You being connected to them means they are connected to you. If you are using Windows 7, your OS will no longer update to keep up with the safety requirements of the time, which makes it vulnerable to new viruses.
New networks mean new scams, which means new threats. If those threats can get past Windows 7 security through a fault in the code, there is no way to fortify it against them, as the code cannot be updated or “fixed”.
User Interface, Features, and Privacy Concerns: Windows 10 vs Windows 7
Okay, so you’re not a hacker or a techwiz or a government official to focus too much on performance or security (although I would strongly advise you to). You’re just an average Joe, looking for an average, smooth, convenient OS that works for you.
When comparing Windows 10 and Windows 7 as an average user, just to see how it works day-to-day, we’ll look at a few aspects such as:
Design:
The User Interface is probably the most notable feature and also the key deciding factor for a lot of people. We’re familiar with Windows 7. It’s a classic. It carries that signature start menu and an Aero Glass effect. Its simplicity makes it charming.
On the other hand, Windows 10 has that flat, modern user interface, which is more in tune with the times. A modern start menu with live tiles, touch support, and virtual desktops adds to its appeal.
New features:
Expanding on that, virtual desktops allow you to create multiple workspaces to allow for easier workflow and touchscreen support is always a nifty feature.
Additionally, Windows 10 also supports a very modern, easy-on-the-eyes dark mode for an elevated modern tech feel and a game bar offering gaming tools as well as recording features for streaming.
Privacy:
To be clear, Windows 10 is much more secure compared to Windows 7, but users should walk in knowing that Windows 10 is set at default to collect some data. Don’t panic! It's just to improve your experience.
The data in question is telemetry data, which includes system, app usage, and diagnostic data to monitor things like app crashes (so that they can be repaired) or browsing behavior (for a more personalized experience).
Personalization:
Windows 10 is much more receptive to personalization than Windows 7. You can easily tweak a few things as per your preferences by altering the settings or making use of third-party apps.
It is also worth noting that the consistent updates Windows 10 has made it even more user-friendly over time. Developers use the collected data to improve upon the boot time, memory, fluidity and responsiveness, making it a much smoother experience.
Which One Should You Choose: Windows 10 or Windows 7?
We’ve gone through all the basics. Now you have a clearer picture of what OS version offers what features. You are free to choose your preferred version based on what features you need and the hardware your computer has. Here’s what I recommend you do.
Choose Windows 10 if:
You are online most of the time. You need to use cloud services or download apps, or play online games. You require top-notch security out in the wild.
You have a more modern set-up with all the latest gadgets (or you’re planning on getting one soon). You need a modern OS version to go along with it, as it was designed to work with them. Windows 7 might not be able to utilize those features to their fullest.
You care about your security and privacy. Windows 10 will do a much better job of it than Windows 7.
Choose Windows 7 if:
You have an older PC model that cannot support heavier/bloated software. Windows 7 is much lighter and clutter-free. It’ll make your experience smoother especially if you are using your computer primarily for offline tasks such as typing or watching media.
You prefer a clutter-free, simple user interface that allows you to do more focused work. You can use Windows 7 stress-free for online work but it is worth noting that if you use it for online work you also accept that risk that comes with it.
All of that being said, you don’t need to feel pressured to go for Windows 10 just because of its “newness”. None of those features are of any use to you if you don’t have the hardware to support them. Your choice of Windows really just depends on your circumstances
No Matter Your Choice—Install WPS Office for Smarter Work
Windows, famously, comes with several office tools such as MS Word, MS Excel, etc. It is convenient to have all those features on your computer, but they are not free. On top of paying for the license to use Windows itself, whether that's Windows 7 or Windows 10, you also have to pay to use MS Office applications.
You shouldn’t have to, though, not when you have WPS Office. Not only does it not overload your system, but it is also easier to download and operate than the Office suite since it requires no activation, and best of all it is free.
1. All-in-One Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Support
Whether you need free versions of MS Word, MS Excel, or MS PowerPoint, WPS does it all. The documents created are fully compatible with Microsoft formats, so you can send that bi-annual report/budget to your boss without having to worry about them not being able to open it. All that without spending a single dime.
2. Built-in PDF Reader and Editor
WPS Office can do everything MS Office can do and more. You can open, annotate, and convert PDF files all from the same dashboard. This is perfect for anyone managing digital documents, whether that’s a student, a teacher, or a corporate worker.
3. WPS AI: Smart Writing and Document Tools
If you’ve ever found yourself falling asleep reading lengthy documents that your superior sent you, this one's for you. Just use WPS AI to summarise documents and make your life easier. You can even use this AI tool to create content or polish the one you’ve already written. It is fast, accurate, and easy to use.
FAQs
1: Will my old computer support Windows 10?
Whether or not your computer will support Windows 10 depends on the features your computer has and whether or not it meets the system requirements. Even if you have an old PC, if it meets the minimum requirements to run Windows 10, it should work just fine. Check to see if your PC has the following:
Processor: 1 GHz or faster (32-bit or 64-bit)
RAM: 1 GB (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit)
Storage: 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)
Graphics: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver
Display: 800x600 resolution
2: Is it free to upgrade Windows 7 to 10?
The official answer would be no, but there is a loophole. Officially, Microsoft ended the free upgrade offer for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 back in 2016; however, if you still have your Windows 7 product key you can just download Windows 10 and activate it using your Windows 7 product key.
Many users have reported that it activated automatically via Microsoft servers.
3. Does upgrading Windows 7 to 10 delete everything?
If you choose the right upgrade option, No. Simply select the “keep personal files and apps” option during the download, and you should be good to go.
Windows 10 Vs Windows 7: Choose the Best Office Suite
Your choice of Windows is dependent on three things: your requirements, your PC’s hardware, and what you are willing to compromise on. The more modern choice is not always the right choice. For lower-end PCs, Windows 7 works best, but it can still support Windows 10 provided it meets all the requirements. The latest computers support Windows 10 better, but I do not recommend using Windows 7 on a new computer because that is wasting your PC’s potential. Needless to say, whichever you choose, you don’t need to bear the additional cost of MS Office applications. Not when you have all of those features and many more with WPS Office.
