Modern operating systems are well optimized. This thesis has been confirmed many times by Windows 10, which runs on the most low-powered PCs, and various Linux distributions, aimed at lovers of speed. The user today is not so big choice- some a priori do not want to give up Windows. Others, in search of speed and reliability, are looking in the direction of less popular operating systems.
What operating system will be optimal for a laptop?
For a laptop, the speed of programs is especially important - machines in this class are not as powerful as their desktop counterparts. And so well-optimized software comes out on top. Let's look at a few alternatives.
Numerous builds operating systems on the Linux-based definitely deserve attention. In addition to Ubuntu, beloved by home users, there are about 300 different distributions, a third of which are well optimized for mobile computers. Let's pay attention to Linux-based OS options for a weak laptop.
This small and beautiful operating system gravitates towards macOS. The appearance of the start screen, as well as a nice launcher, makes Elementary OS a clear choice for Apple fans. She uses her own shell called Pantheon. This means that the system cannot be confused with another popular distribution. Except with macOS.
Elementary feels good on a 1GB PC random access memory 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.
The Elementari distribution is easy to set up and use. It can be blamed for the considerable consumption of resources and increased consumption of battery capacity. There are a lot of reviews from users on the network that Elementary is not ready to the end. But in general, it is reliable enough for most everyday tasks.
This release of Linux has yet to gain much community attention. Oddly enough, if you note its obvious "+":
- The system is quite fast and stable.
- A good set of built-in applications (including cloud ones).
- Low energy consumption.
The disadvantages of Peppermint include not quite modern and standard interface. This is unlikely to prevent you from choosing it if the laptop's resources are used only for work.
Assembly system requirements are low. It needs at least 512 MB of RAM (better - more), at least 4 GB of hard disk space and Internet access.
The most popular release of Linux has served well to popularize free software since 2004. This system began to be talked about a lot a few years later, when Canonical arranged free newsletter CD with Ubuntu for everyone.
Unfortunately, in 2011, Canonical stopped supporting Ubuntu Netbook, a release specifically for low-end laptops and netbooks. But Ubuntu to this day boasts quite good (generally) suitability for weak computers and laptops. It uses more battery power than the notorious Windows 7, but it's also slightly faster and supports more hardware.
Expandability and appearance systems also deserve attention. Ubuntu is highly configurable, although in earlier releases (up to version 14) you could specify many more installations than you can now.
With the requirements for the equipment, things are not so smooth:
- The standard shell requires at least 2 GB of RAM. Third-party (Openbox, Mate) can get by with half a gigabyte.
- It is better to use a dual-core processor with a frequency of 1.3 GHz.
Linux can be used as the main system without any problems if you have purchased a weak laptop without an OS and do not want to spend a considerable amount on Windows license. Or you hate piracy. But keep in mind - compatibility issues and a relatively small number of applications for these operating systems do not allow us to recommend them to everyone.
Microsoft Windows
More has been said about this system than 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 comparative simplicity for a beginner.
Technical requirements are relatively low:
- Processor - one core, from 1 GHz.
- 1 GB RAM.
- The OS takes up 16 GB of hard disk space.
- Requires the video system to support at least DirectX 9.
ADVICE. "Seven" is well optimized for work on laptops and even tablets. If you got it licensed, complete with an old mobile PC, it hardly makes sense to "change" to another OS. If only on…
If you managed to "catch" free update to Windows 10 in the summer of 2016, we sincerely envy you. "Ten" develops the main ideas of Windows 7, and this can be seen literally in everything:
- High loading and working speed (especially with SSD).
- An even more beautiful interface (although there is a lot of controversy about convenience).
- Optimal support for almost everyone existing programs for Windows.
- Improved (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 has been run in enough and got rid of childhood illnesses of early releases. A significant drawback is the excessive curiosity of developers - the OS collects a lot of your data and honestly warns about it. If this is not a problem for you, one of best operating systems modernity - at your service.
conclusions
We examined the most suitable, in our opinion, systems for weak laptops. Only macOS remained outside of attention - but it can be attributed rather to universal solutions (for all types of PCs).
What laptop OS did you choose? Do you want to offer your own version of the “somewhat better” operating system? Then welcome to the discussion!
Surely, many of you have an old computer / laptop / netbook gathering dust somewhere, which there is nowhere to upgrade further, it is impossible to sell, but it's a pity to throw it away. Indeed, do not rush into this, because it may well be useful to someone. Perhaps even to you.
While I was thinking about what to do with my junk (and I had Samsung NC10 and Asus U5F lying around), I came across this text on the net. To those who understand English, the idea is, I hope, clear. And for the rest, the obvious idea is to replace the operating system on the old PC with a less demanding, but at the same time quite up-to-date. Then such a computer can be given to children for simple toys, grandmother for Skype, mom for web surfing, or even use it yourself.
If you take a squeeze and develop an idea, then you should pay attention to:
1) Lubuntu - this is a full-fledged OS for a computer, with the ability to install different programs type Firefox browser or Chrome, Office LibreOffice package(analogue Microsoft office), and habitually saving files to local disk. Promises to be nimble on old hardware. It is also good for its relative popularity and support (read, it will last a long time), but it is not entirely clear whether all this usefulness is needed for an ordinary user of a weak netbook? Of the minuses - because. is a native Linux, there is practically no compatibility with Windows programs ami. But for me, depending on the tasks, it is quite possible to live with this ordinary user Windows. Fortunately, browsers and messengers are the same, and you can not be afraid of viruses. By the way, this is true for all other systems in the list below. It is quite possible to get an impression of the system by this video, even if it's not about the latest version (it's better to watch with video acceleration 1.5 times).
2) Zorin OS Lite is an excellent and most importantly modern version of Linux, which at the same time looks like Windows and is equipped with support for running some Windows programs right out of the box. Lite version promises to work fine even on very old hardware. Plenty in stock useful programs including the same LibreOffice, support for the Russian language and modern software available for popular Linux systems such as the famous Ubuntu. Here you can quickly see what ZorinOS is all about. Looks nice in my opinion.
3) Phoenix OS is an interesting thing - in fact it is modern Android, like in any smartphone, but which can be installed on a regular computer and enjoy all the benefits of this truly most popular system. Phoenix is actively discussed on the forums. They say that even on an old netbook everything works smartly. It's hard to believe, but you can easily check;) Of the minuses - since most of the programs available on GooglePlay are created taking into account the fact that they will be used on a smartphone or tablet, then on a laptop they may look a little strange. In other words, from official demo video it is clearly seen that the developers made sure that everything was as convenient as possible, the browser and instant messengers will work perfectly, but with editing documents there may be troubles specific to Android. On the other hand, there will be up-to-date modern software and an environment familiar to owners of smartphones and tablets, and this distinguishes this option from conventional Linux systems.
4) CloudReady: Home Edition by Neverware - up to date free option cloud-based Chromium OS, very close to Google's Chrome OS. In practice, it is only a browser and all Web applications run inside it. Nothing extra. Designed specifically for netbooks. Here This Video allows you to get an impression of the system. Of the minuses - without the Internet, this is an almost useless thing, but when connected to the network, the entire palette cloud services at your service. No installations, settings, updates, antiviruses and other nonsense for you - everything is online. No normal applications work (unless you can in a tricky way run Android apps). It is installed very simply, no red-eyed dances with a tambourine for you - launched it, connected to the network and everything is ready to go.
Think about it, maybe before you stupidly get rid of the trash with the old Windows XP, you should try to revive it a little at least programmatically, since, alas, it is no longer amenable to a hardware upgrade? It is quite difficult for me to help make the final choice in favor of only one of the options. I do not know all your tasks and requirements, but for some reason it seems to me that the list has developed in order of increasing preference for an ordinary inexperienced user. If you don’t need anything other than a browser, and there are enough web applications, then option 4 is an obvious choice, at the same time, the question of backup data, because everything is synced to google drive. If a person has a positive experience with Android smartphone or tablet, then, if you have the same Google account, the third option also looks pretty good. If you really need something specific to Windows or there is absolutely no willingness to face something new, unknown and unlike Windows, then this is the second option. Well, if a person is open to everything new and requires maximum opportunities, reliability, flexibility and support, then this is the first option. There was a translated article on Habré, which can help you choose the most suitable of these.
And it’s better to send a zombie and a cooled fast food to a landfill.
PS. Please send comments on spelling, punctuation, etc. in a personal. Everything will be fixed promptly.
Optimal computer performance for any user is a priority issue. Components designed with the latest technologies, will not be able to provide comfort in work in the absence of optimally compatible software. In order to understand, a number of factors must be taken into account.
The system capacity and configuration of the central processing unit (CPU) are the primary factors taken into account when selecting system software. The popular Windows XP installed on a PC is 32-bit in many cases. The previously developed 64-bit version of the same system, although used, has not found wide application. The OS is distinguished by stability, functionality, user-friendly interface. However, installing it on a laptop is impractical.
Windows XP, being 32 bit, can support a maximum of 3 GB of RAM. In this case, the optimal performance of a laptop with more than 3 GB of RAM cannot be achieved. The system will not be able to use the full amount of memory. Therefore, preference should be given to Windows 7.
In parallel, when choosing an OS option, you need to check the bit depth of the CPU. CPU with a 32-bit register will not be able to work with 64-bit systems. This case involves installing 32-bit Windows 7 or Windows Vista. If the processor register width is 64 and the configuration motherboard makes it possible to install more than 4 GB of RAM, it is advisable to opt for Windows 7 64 bit. This will provide performance, speed, comfort in work and additional security of your data.
Installed on new Windows devices Vista is not particularly popular. After some time, users who have worked with this OS are wondering what is the best operating system for a laptop for the purpose of replacing the software. The reason for this is the not very successful first version of Vista, which caused a lot of criticism. Security issues, installation difficulties, unfamiliar interface, problems when working in settings management led to a downgrade of the development rating from Microsoft. Most users prefer to replace this operating system with a later seven or Windows 8.
Before making a final decision, another important factor to consider is the availability of the necessary drivers designed to ensure the operation of individual devices.
Developers of new OS versions strive to release fresh programs, refusing software that runs on older computers. In this case, after installing the latest operating system on a PC that has served for more than one year, compatibility problems are likely. Finding a driver online may take for a long time or not give the desired result at all. In this case, it is advisable to approach this issue rationally.
Windows 7 or Windows 8 - what is the best operating system for a laptop? This is a pretty popular question. As tests show, the performance of the seven is practically not inferior to the speed of the latest OS. The only clear advantage is more fast loading Windows 8: Version 7 outperformed in some tests. Windows 7 eliminates mistakes made by developers when creating software, which makes the system more reliable.
By contacting us, you can avoid problems with the choice and lengthy reflections. Our experts will quickly determine the configuration of your laptop and select the best OS option. We guarantee only the best results.
It is comfortable to work with Windows on regularly updated equipment, but on older computers it often starts to “slip”. Fortunately, there are alternative operating systems for this case - lightweight and safe.
A recent study by Avast, a well-known company, demonstrates well what kind of equipment people actually use. About a third of users are still on computers that were released in 2009 or earlier. Average age of the majority personal computers- more than five years.
A quarter of computers have 2 GB of RAM or even less, and the presence of an SSD is rather an exception. We think it's good. Don't worry and keep using your devices. The Windows operating system also has more lightweight alternatives that are suitable for older computers.
Lubuntu: a lightweight version of Ubuntu
Topping the list is Lubuntu, a compact version of Ubuntu with an LXDE desktop.Linux is a lighter system than Windows, in part because it has many different options. GUI. If you look at Ubuntu and its "daughter" Lubuntu with the LXDE desktop, then the second seems like a worthy lightweight alternative. The big advantage is that it allows you to use the equipment sparingly without sacrificing your comfort. For Windows user working with the system should not be difficult, so it's worth a try.
Linux Mint XFCE: Another alternative to Ubuntu
Slim Mint - lightweight Linux version Mint with the XFCE desktop, which saves a lot of resources. Even the most popular version of Linux - Linux Mint - is available with an economical interface. We recommend Linux Mint XFCE for slightly outdated hardware. Be sure to try the built-in tools such as the Xplayer media player or Xreader PDF viewer. They are very careful with resources.
Elementary OS: in the luxurious atmosphere of MacOS
Elementary OS stands out for its chic appearance. Elementary OS benefits from its looks, as it incorporates macOS design elements. At the same time, Linux is hidden under the shell. Thanks to the built-in AppStore, you can complete the system with additional software; basic programs already installed.
Puppy Linux: It doesn't get any easier
Puppy Linux is a very economical alternative for those who want to save as much resources as possible. If the aforementioned operating systems are not suitable for you because there are not enough resources, then Puppy Linux may be a good option for you. However, this distribution is significantly reduced in functionality, which makes it somewhat difficult to work with.
CloudReady: Chrome OS for self-installation
With CloudReady, you can install Chrome OS on any hardware. An option that is different from all the Windows alternatives above: CloudReady. It allows users to install Chrome OS on any hardware. Note: Chrome OS is online, meaning it requires an internet connection to use. The operating system is quite economical, so CloudReady is recommended for use on devices designed for Internet surfing.
Do you use outdated equipment?
Does it still work or is it time to throw it away? Undoubtedly, eventually there will come a time when you have to part with the old equipment. But there is nothing wrong with using old devices for as long as possible. But the software must be fresh - it is better to replace outdated Windows XP or Vista. If the old equipment refuses to work with current version Windows, there are always many lightweight alternatives.
Updated: 11.02.2018 17:35:39
Despite the fact that modern laptops have high performance, it is still better for them to use lightweight operating systems.
Which operating system to choose for a laptop: the least resource-intensive distributions
Among the least resource-intensive distributions are:
You can also install outdated versions of Windows, such as 7 or XP, but they may no longer be supported by developers (both the OS itself and software for them) and receive security updates.
Lite versions
By itself, the Windows 10 operating system works quite well even on weak laptops - for example, equipped with Intel processor Atom and 2 GB of RAM. But it has two editions that provide even more performance - LTSB and S.
Windows 10 LTSB (Long Term Support Branch) is a special corporate version of the operating system designed for use in large companies where the need to preserve the confidentiality of information comes to the fore. Therefore, telemetry services that load the processor are cut out of it, and some Modern applications are also removed.
Windows 10 LTSB has enough shortcomings. The first is that the distribution kit itself “weighs” a lot and takes about 7-10 GB on the hard drive. The second is that since this operating system is intended for use in corporations, there may be problems with its licensing.
The alternative is Windows 10 S. An important feature has been removed from it - there is no support for x86 / x64 desktop applications. That is, many familiar programs will not work on it. Windows 10 S only works with Modern apps.
User friendly Linux distributions
Most of the most easy-to-use and user-friendly Linux distributions are characterized by low system resource consumption. These are, for example, Ubuntu, Kubuntu and Linux Mint. They differ visually, slightly in functionality and capabilities.
However, Linux has many disadvantages:
A fairly small database of drivers - for some devices in laptops, you simply won’t be able to find software. For example, for touch screen or a fingerprint scanner. And if these components can be abandoned, then the Wi-Fi module is already more difficult;
Rather low functionality of open source software - use familiar programs such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop, on such an OS will not work. But alternatives rarely offer enough functionality or user-friendly interface. For some programs, analogues under Linux do not exist at all;
It takes habit and some level of computer literacy;
The latest versions of these operating systems take up a lot of hard disk space and, due to "decorations", put a lot of stress on the computer.
Lightweight Linux distributions
If a latest versions user-friendly Linux distributions put a lot of stress on system resources, you can use special, lightweight configurations. Such, for example, is Elementary OS.
This operating system is based on the Ubuntu kernel, but is characterized by minimalism both in the interface and in the requirements for computer resources. For example, it easily runs on configurations with 512 MB of RAM and a 1 GHz processor.
However, the shortcomings of this OS are the same as those of the other - above - Linux distributions.
Remix OS - desktop modification of the operating Android systems. Given that the "green robot" is optimized to work on weak configurations, with processors of 1.3-2.4 GHz and up to 2 GB of RAM, this distribution will also work well on underpowered laptops.
There are more than enough applications for this operating system - almost any Android program runs on it. But there are even more problems with drivers.
Summary
Thus, most operating systems greatly curtail the user's capabilities. The best solution for laptops will be Windows usage 10 LTSB. However, if there are no problems with drivers or open source software, you can use some Linux distribution.
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.