Hi friends. What operating system is better to install on an old or new, but low-power computer? On our site there are reviews of Windows specific assemblies that can more or less revive a weak PC or laptop, they are posted in the "" heading. It also will also find links to articles where various methods of software optimization are given in order to more efficiently spend hardware resources. This article will replenish the existing knowledge base of this category, in it we will conduct a comprehensive review of operating systems that can be viewed as an option for installing on a weak PC or laptop. And not only Windows assemblies will be involved in the review, but also other operating systems.
From other operating systems and I propose to start.
1. Linux Mint.
Linux Mint is a popular Linux distribution, a lightweight operating system, positioned as one of the best alternatives to Windows XP. But, unlike the latter, Linux Mint is a living, supported system with a regular delivery of security updates. Moreover, this distribution is comfortable for switching from Windows. Linux Mint is, unlike Ubuntu, a Windows-like interface system: with the same organization organization, with the taskbar at the bottom, with the analogue of the Start menu.
Linux Mint comes in assemblies with three interface types:
Xfce - the simplest interface, lightweight, suitable for devices with less than 1 GB of RAM;
Mate - classic GNOME 2 interface;
Cinnamon is a modern attractive interface with visual effects, with the possibility of installing dessts (type of Windows 7 gadgets). Cinnamon can be installed if there are at least 2 GB of RAM.
In Linux Mint, the CINNAMON interface comes with a standard package of a calculator type, notes, image viewers, screenshoter, etc., Mozilla Firefox browser, Thunderbird Poster, Torrent Rocking-on TranSmission, Disk Analyzer, LibreOffice Package, Two Graphic Editor, Three Media player, etc.
Pros Linux Mint:
Work with more perfect than NTFS, File System EXT4,
Lack of telemetry
No need for antivirus.
Cons Linux Mint:
Small choice of third-party software,
Possible problems with computer specific devices for which drivers under Linux are not written,
The complexity of development and working with the console to solve those tasks that are solved extremely simple in Windows.
Installing Linux Mint is simple, the distribution is downloaded on the official website of the project:
2. Chrome Os.
Chrome OS is an operating system from Google, specially created for weak netbooks, sharpened under web surfing and using Google services. Basic on Linux is actively unfars from Google services, supports both ARM processors and x86. Very minimalistic, only the main systemic possibilities provide, essentially the usual Wednesday with a work desk and a chrome browser tightly integrated into it. Supported Content System - Extensions and Applications from Chrome Store, as well as Optimized Applications from Google Play (which for Android).
Chrome OS is the thing for very old laptops, but, of course, provided that their hardware filling will be headed in the system. And she may not get all. The fact is that Chrome OS is designed for specific devices - chrombo. It is not like a Windows or Linux, a system for mass use on desktops. Chrome OS is supplied only pre-installed on chrombo. Google is not that prevents the installation of your system on non-chrombus, as, for example, it makes Apple, forbidden to install Mac OS on a non-mail device. Google simply does not supply its operating system officially, because it cannot guarantee its versatility. Unofficially, the projects of Chromium OS supported by enthusiasts exist - open source systems, i.e. Open to modify analogue Chrome OS. The Chromium OS assembly also does not guarantee massive support for iron, as lucky in each case.
Where to get and how to install Chromium OS? On the sites of its different projects. For example, the modified Chromium OS assemblies are offered on the website:
There is also written how this thing is established.
How to download a distribution system, how to install it - all this is written on the Cloudready:
Both English-speaking projects who are not friends with this language, I remind you, live in the 21st century, there are things like Google- or Yandex-translator.
Pros Chromium OS:
Free operating system
Minimum hardware load
Native support for multiple file systems, including NTFS and EXT4.
CHROMIUM OS:
Limitations, system only for web surfing and uncomplicated philistine operations,
3. Android
What is the Android operating system, I suppose, no one needs to be explained. But few people know that the network has projects enthusiasts engaged in Android adaptation under work with processors x86, i.e. Under the operation of the system on PC and laptops. Such a project, for example, here:
Here, as you update the company Google Android for mobile devices, 32- and 64-bit releases of this system are laid out for mobile devices. At the date of writing of the article there are already distributions of Android 8.1, but I could not establish this version on the PC. And here are the earlier releases of Android 7.1 I installed. What is a desktop Android 7.1?
Android-x86 7.1-R2 is the second (modified) release of pure desktop Android 7.1, adapted to control the operating system with the window interface.
With the Windows Snap screen split function with the windows.
And even with the pre-installed launcher Launcher3 by type of the usual desktop with an analogue of the Start menu.
But if you wish, we can choose another launcher - Taskbar - and work in a typical tablet Android environment.
The system comes with superuser rights, an embedded console and a minimum set of standard applications. All you need is downloaded from Google Play.
Release CM-X86-14.1-R2 is the second LineageOS release (previously known as CyanogenMod) - Custom build on the basis of Android 7.1. It is also routing, sharpened with a console, with a window mode operating system, but with a slightly different set of delivery of pre-installed applications and with another launcher instead of Launcher3 - with the Trebuchet launcher.
Desktop Android distributions are laid out in ISO images, the installation of the system is complex in part of the installation site selection, but the network is full of manuals.
Pluses of desktop Android:
Free operating system
Native support for file systems and NTFS, and more advanced EXT4,
Minimum hardware load
Huge selection of content from Google Play.
Cons desktop Android:
Not the fact that all components of the computer will work,
Stability is not guaranteed.
Well, now consider the top three of the trimmed Windows distributions, which can be used on weak computers.
4. Windows 7 Embedded
Windows 7 Embedded is the official trimmed assembly from Microsoft ordinary Windows 7, intended for production equipment. Very nimble, noticeably smoky Linux Mint Cinnamon, can even work on devices with 512 MB of RAM. And then, for Linux Mint, a minimum of 1.3 GHz processor is declared, for Windows 7 embedded this minimum is 1 GHz. This is the most optimal version of Windows XP. True, security updates for "seven" Microsoft will only be delivered until January 2020. All items on this assembly.
Pros of Windows 7 Embedded:
Fastest
Minuses Windows 7 Embedded:
5. Windows 8.1 Embedded
Windows 8.1 Embedded is another trimmed embedding Embedded for manufacturing equipment, only in the release version of Windows 8.1. Like Windows 7 embedded, the required minimum for it on the processor is only 1 GHz. But RAM must be at least 1 GB. Windows 8.1Embedded is also a shorter system, it is preinstalled at the minimum of the MODERN UI applications.
But they can be cleaned from the system with the store, install some third-party program to implement the "Start" menu and obtain, in fact, evolving Windows 7 - the current operating system updated by part of the security, with the classical "eight" functions, stable and predictable computer environment. All items on this assembly
Windows 10 LTSC is designed for stable work on corporate computers, but it is not sharpened as Windows 7 and 8.1 Embedded, under low-power equipment. What will help Windows 10 LTSC weak computers, so it is a slightly smaller speed of RAM, a slightly smaller number of background processes and the lack of functional updates that can enter a weak computer into a stupor. All details about Windows 10 LTSC.
Pros of Windows 10 LTSC:
The usual Wednesday for Windows users
In the potential of 360 days of free activation,
Full, stable, universal desktop operating system.
Cons Windows 10 LTSC:
Minuses are the same as all Windows, and this can be written volumes of books.
Summing up ...
What exactly of all the systems considered is better for a weak PC or laptop, will definitely show only an experiment by installing it on a specific device. The most optimal option so as not to spend time on mastering the specifics of the operation of other operating systems in order to accurately worked any iron to have a stable current platform for a diverse software - this is, of course, Windows 8.1 Embedded. In cases, for example, if at home is lying for some old laptop, you can try to make a toy for children based on Android. Chrome OS can be used for web surfing even without a hard disk, running the system on the flash drive and saving files in Google Drive. Well, Linux Mint ... At least specifically, this distribution is quite good, but without immersion in the Linux philosophy, the avid winecondition, accustomed to the principle of "tyri, and will work," it will be difficult to stay on this system. If, of course, use it more than for web surfing and watching movies.
Select the operating system for a netbook first of all after its acquisition. For netbooks are characterized by low productive power and low speed. In addition, modern OS and versions of browsers are too heavy for them and are practically inoperable on devices of such a plan.
Linux-based operating
For a user who will use a netbook for web surfing, reading books, watching cinema, etc., the rightful decision will put one of the Linux family OC:
- Linux distribution, lightweight and suitable for weak devices, - Xubuntu. The desktop environment is XFCE. It has a good package of pre-installed programs and does not require high power from the device. All functions are saved. After installation, you can immediately proceed to use, since XFCE does not need additional configuration. The already installed applications include the Mozilla Firefox browser, GIMP graphic editor, LibreOffice office package, etc.
- Special version for netbooks - Ubuntu Netbook Edition. It will help optimize and maximize productively use the location on the device screen. Contrary to expectations, the system has all the options that the original Ubuntu offers: Ubuntu apps, games, photo edits, multimedia, email.
- Linux Mint Xfce operating system. Good alternative to Windows XP. It has similar appearance, the location of the windows and the launch menu, but at the same time steadily supported by the developers and regularly supplies security updates. This simple option with a minimum set of features is suitable if the RAM is less than 1 GB.
The advantages of the Linux based OS should include:
- free operating system;
- lack of need in antivirus;
- lack of telemetry;
- a more advanced EXT4 file system than NTFS.
Very popular thanks to their ease and compactness. Of course, they are inferior to full-fledged computers and laptops, but netbook owners do not grieve, because such "babes" are bought mainly for surfing on the Internet. But due to the technical characteristics, the netbook can not be installed any OS. What netbook operating system Can you come up?
Solving what operating system for a netbook you like more, you need to take into account several factors. First is the price. There is a paid OS, there are free. Are you ready to post additional money for the distribution of the operating system? Very important system resource intensity: Netbooks are characterized by a smaller amount of drive and RAM, so the system must use resources rationally. In addition, the system must be adapted to the "Stuffing" of the netbook..
Of course, the most famous and common OS at the moment is Microsoft Windows.. Microsoft did not produce special versions of the operating system for netbooks, so you will have to install Windows XP on a netbook or one of the "younger." Usually put on netbooks Windows 7 Starter.but its functionality is extremely trimmed. Pluses of Windows - In her usual, as well as that it supports almost any equipment. In addition, some programs only work under Windows. Minuses - its price, and economical in relation to the resources to be called not easy.
Therefore, many believe that the best operating system for a laptop is Linux, it is free and consumes less resources. But the snag is that Linux is a common name for a variety of free operating systems, so the question remains open: you will have to choose from a large number of distributions. What Linux distributions can be advised to install on netbook?
Perhaps the most common operating system for a netbook from the Linux family is Ubuntu Netbook Edition. In general, many of them begin to acquaint him with Linux from Ubuntu - this system is most friendly in relation to users. It is quickly installed, loaded and works, and the user interface should not enter you into confusion.
But recently, the UNBUNTU Netbook Edition distribution has ceased to exist. The fact is that in the version of the distribution version 10.10, the UNITY shell was first used, which allowed to more effectively use a small netbook screen. The developers decided to use UNITY and in the desktop distribution - Ubuntu Desktop Edition 11.04, so both versions - for PCs and netbooks - decided to combine. But, in theory, now Ubuntu Desktop Edition should be suitable for netbooks.
Pretty young operating system for a netbook is Moblin.. This distribution was developed by Intel specifically for netbooks equipped with an Intel Atom processor. The main complaint against this "axis" was its lack of relationship. Therefore, the Moblin platform after transfer to Linux Foundation is transformed into a new project - MeeGo.
MEEGO platform Combined the work of projects from the developers of Nokia and Intel, as well as a number of Linux projects. In its development, many companies producing netbooks, laptops and mobile devices take part. OS this is enough young, so if you are afraid to experiment, it is worth a little wait.
Other Linux systems installed on netbooks are JolicLoud, Linux Mint, GOS, Xandros. System Xandros. It was designed specifically for ASUS EEE PC, and is adapted primarily under them. It is not particularly popular with this OS for obvious reasons, but if you are offered a laptop with already pre-installed OS - why not try, especially since you do not have to pay extra.
Linux Mint. Not designed specifically for netbooks, but this distribution is quite easy, so many put it on netbooks. The Linux Mint system is very similar to Ubuntu, differing only in the interface (it remained intact and simple) and some own applications. It is popular for its simplicity that after installation in it you can immediately work, without loading additional programs and codecs.
GOS OS Based on the Ubuntu distribution and "sharpening", mainly under applications from Google or MySpace, and the interface is reminded by MAS OS X. It is good for its orientation on the Web, because the main task of netbooks is work on the Internet, but since it has not been developed Especially for netbooks, there may be problems with the work of some equipment under this system.
Jolicloud. Based on Ubuntu, but to work with web applications used Google Chrome OS. The advantages of the system are that it supports all models of netbooks, desktop computers and laptops. And it is focused mainly on netbooks and old computers.
As you can see, it is difficult to say which operating system for a netbook is better. The choice is very wide, all systems have advantages and disadvantages, so the question is mainly in personal preferences.
Modern operating systems are optimized well. This thesis has confirmed the many times and Windows 10, which runs on the most low-power PCs, and various Linux distributions focused on speed lovers. The user today is not such a big choice - some a priori do not want to abandon Windows. Others, in search of speed and reliability, look towards less popular OS.
What operating system will be optimal for a laptop?
For a laptop, the speed of the programs is especially important - the machines of this class are not so powerful as their desktop analogs. And therefore, well optimized software goes first. Let's consider several alternative options.
Numerous assemblies of operating systems based on Linux definitely deserve attention. In addition to loved home users, Ubuntu, there are about 300 different distributions, a third of which is well optimized for mobile computers. Pay attention to OS options based on Linux for a weak laptop.
This small and beautiful operating system is macos. The appearance of the starting screen, as well as the pretty launch panel makes the Elementary OS an unambiguous choice for apple fans. It uses his own shell called Pantheon. This means that the system does not confuse with another popular distribution. Is that with Makos.
Elementary feels well on a PC with 1 GB of RAM and a low-power processor (from 1 GHz). Therefore, it can be recommended to all owners of old computers who envy the beauty of new operating systems.
Distribution elementary is easy to configure and use. It can be accused of a considerable consumption of resources and increased battery capacity. Online a lot of reviews from users that Elementary is not ready to end. But in general, it is quite reliable for most everyday tasks.
This Linux release has not yet managed to conquer a lot of attention of the community. It is enough enough if you note the obvious "+":
- The system is quite fast and stable.
- A good set of built-in applications (including cloud).
- Small energy consumption.
The minuses of Peppermint include not a completely modern and standard interface. It is unlikely to prevent you from choosing it if the laptop resources are used only for work.
System requirements for assembly are low. It is necessary from 512 MB RAM (better - more), at least 4 GB of places on the hard disk and Internet access.
The most popular Linux release is perfectly promoted to popularize free from 2004. This system began to speak a lot about this system later, when Canonical has arranged a free CD newsletter with Ubunt to each wishes.
Unfortunately, in 2011, Canonical ceased support for Ubuntu Netbook - release specifically for low-power laptops and netbooks. But Ubuntu to this day boasts a good (overall) suitability for weak computers and laptops. She spends more battery energy than notorious Windows 7, but it works a little faster and maintains more equipment.
Extensibility and appearance of the system also deserve attention. Ubuntu is easily adjusted, although in earlier releases (up to version 14) could be set much more installations than now.
With the equipment requirements, everything is not so smooth:
- Standard shell requires at least 2 GB RAM. Third-party (OpenBox, Mate) can cost half a gigabyte.
- It is better to use a dual-core processor with a frequency of 1.3 GHz.
Linux can easily use as the main system if you have purchased a weak laptop without OS and do not want to spend a considerable amount on the Windows license. Or you disgust piracy. But consider compatibility issues and a comparative small number of applications for these OS do not allow them to recommend them to each.
Microsoft Windows.
This system says so much as any other. De facto The world's best compatibility with programs and games, a huge selection of drivers and fast work. This is complemented by a beautiful interface, as well as a comparative simplicity for a beginner.
Technical requirements are relatively low:
- The processor is one kernel, from 1 GHz.
- 1 GB of RAM.
- OS occupies 16 GB on the hard disk.
- Requires support from the video system at least DirectX 9.
Council. "Semyon" is well optimized for working on laptops and even tablets. If she got a licensed, complete with the old mobile PC, is unlikely to have the meaning to "transplant" to another OS. If only on ...
If you have managed to "catch" a free update to Windows 10 in the summer of 2016, we sincerely envy you. The "dozen" develops the main ideas of Windows 7, and it can be traced literally in everything:
- High boot and work speed (especially with SSD).
- An even more beautiful interface (although there is a lot of disputes about convenience).
- Optimal support for almost all existing Windows programs.
- Superior (compared to 8.1) touch mode.
- Regular security updates.
At the same time, Windows 10 works well on computers that barely "pull" Windows 7. Today, the system is rolled enough and got rid of children's diseases of early releases. An essential disadvantage can be called excessive curiosity of developers - the OS collects many of your data and honestly warns about it. If this does not represent problems for you, one of the best Operations of our time is at your service.
conclusions
We looked at the most appropriate, in our opinion, systems for weak laptops. Over the limits of attention, only MacOS remained - but it can be attributed rather to universal solutions (for all types of PCs).
What OS for laptop you choose? Want to offer your option "What is the best" operating system? Then welcome to the discussion!
Many of us have old system builds and laptops that can become an excellent training material for other users. However, installing enough powerful operating systems for such builds (starting with Windows 7), will not allow working with devices. PCs will hang and their jungle will be in a burden. Therefore, we suggest familiarizing yourself with our list of operating systems for weak PCs and laptops.
Selection of the operating system for a weak computer
Linux Mint is one of the versions of the popular Linux operating system developed by The Linux Foundation, which applies free of charge and is suitable for both home and office use. Unlike Windows XP, which Linux Mint is an alternative, the latter is still supported and updated regularly.
Why do Linux MINT we offer as an option for a weak PC?
Linux Mint interface is similar to Windows XP. It uses the same organization of windows, taskbar, start button. However, there are several differences that need to be taken into account when choosing Linux Mint.
- There is a Linux Mint Cinnamon assembly. Suitable for devices with 2 GB of RAM. Allows you to use gadgets, multiple programs for working with office documents.
- Linux Mint Xfce - an assembly for devices with a scope of RAM less than 1 GB. It has the easiest interface, lightweight, does not load the processor and memory unnecessary effects.
- Linux Mint Mate is an operating system with a classic GNOME 2 interface.
Among the advantages of Linux Mint it is worth highlighting:
- Works on weak assemblies;
- Works with the EXT4 file system;
- No telemetry (surveillance for the user);
- Unnecessary to install the antivirus, since there are very few viruses for Linux viruses.
Disadvantages of such a light assembly:
- A small selection of software;
- Incompatibility with some components of the device and connected gadgets, such as, printer, scanner, etc. (lack of official drivers);
- Difficulty after using Windows.
Chrome OS is an operating system from Google, which was specially designed for weak netbooks intended only for web surfing and using Google services. Based on Linux. Supports both ARM processors and x86. Allows you to work with both Google services and applications that can be downloaded from Play Market. Management is possible both from the keyboard and from the mouse.
Advantages of such an operating system:
- Applies free of charge;
- Minimum system resource consumption;
- Native support for multiple file systems, including NTFS and EXT4;
- The wider base of third-party software.
Disadvantages of such an operating system:
- It is installed only on chrombo. It is possible to download only Chromium OS - open source operating system.
- There is a conflict with some installed and connected equipment.
Desktop Android is a mobile operating system that is adapted to PC. Installation is possible versions to 8.1. So far, Android 8.1 for PC works with failures. However, earlier versions are installed and operate without problems.
Why the desktop version of the Android operating system is suitable for weak PC?
- Suitable for both 32- and 64-bit systems;
- There is a familiar window interface;
- It is possible to control the mouse and keyboard;
- There is a preset Launcher 3, which allows you to organize the familiar "Start" menu.
- It is possible to split the screen into two working areas;
- The system comes with super user rights, and therefore you can use the console and download various applications, perform a thin system setting.
Advantages of the desktop operating system Android:
- Works free of charge, does not require the purchase of a license;
- Support for file systems and NTFS, and more perfect ext4;
- Works and in the presence of 1 GB of RAM, and therefore suitable for weak PCs;
- Huge selection of applications from Google Play.
Cons Android for PC:
- It may be incompatible with some computer components.
For those who do not consider any options, except Windows, we suggest to consider the top three assemblies:
- Windows 7 Embedded;
- Windows 8.1 Embedded;
- Windows 10 LTSC.
Windows 7 Embedded is a formal lightweight version of the usual Windows 7, which is designed for a weaker PC. The assembly is sufficiently nimble, noticeably smoking Linux Mint Cinnamon and can even work on computers with 512 MB of RAM. And while for Linux Mint declared a minimum of 1.3 GHz processor, then for Windows 7 embedded this minimum is only 1 GHz. This is the most optimal version of Windows XP replacement with the preservation of "loyalty" Microsoft.
The advantages of Windows 7 Embedded for weak PC are the following:
- Fast on old and weak PCs;
- The usual environment for Windows 7 Embedded users;
- Full, stable, universal desktop operating system, which works with all programs and applications.
Minuses Windows 7 Embedded:
- Standard Windows errors.
Windows 8.1 Embedded - Cut version Embedded for manufacturing equipment, only in Windows 8.1 variations. As with Windows 7, embedded, the required minimum for it for the power of the processor is only 1 GHz. But RAM must be at least 1 GB.
In Windows 8.1, Embedded does not have a classic Start menu, but you can download the program to implement the usual interface. This assembly supports all programs for Windows and also receives security updates.
The advantages of the assembly of Windows 8.1 Embedded are as follows:
- Frequent enough for weak PCs;
- Still updated;
- Supports all that complete Windows 8.1;
- There are no restrictions on the use of software.
Disadvantages of Windows 8.1 Embedded as in all Windows assemblies - standard BSOD.
Lightweight corporate version of Windows 10 LTSC is a conditional suitable assembly for weak devices. It comes with missing UWP functional and receives only security updates. It has limited functionality and allows you to run only some applications. Games on it will not go all.
In essence, Windows 10 LTSC is designed for stable work on corporate computers. The only thing that will help windows 10 LTSC weak computers is a slightly smaller speed of RAM. However, Windows 10 LTSC is free of 365 days, and then you need to purchase a license.
As we see, for installation on weak PC there are options for lightweight operating systems. We would recommend paying attention to Linux and Windows 7 Embedded. These systems will really work quickly on weak assemblies and will be understood in mastering. However, you can try the rest.