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 - light 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
The list of leaders is led by 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 an LXDE desktop, then the second one seems like a worthy lightweight alternative. The big advantage is that it allows you to use the equipment sparingly without sacrificing your comfort. For the user windows work the system shouldn't 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 We recommend Linux Mint XFCE for slightly outdated hardware.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 software should be fresh - outdated Windows XP or Vista is better to replace. If the old equipment refuses to work with current version Windows, there are always many lightweight alternatives.
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Most netbooks are also offered to the buyer with an installed operating system. Such a laptop is completely ready to work and install the applications necessary for a particular user.
There are exceptions: computers without an OS are also on sale. They cost, as a rule, somewhat cheaper than similar ones, but with an installed "OS". The need to install a new "axis" also arises when the existing one "falls", as well as in order to extend the life of old, not very productive machines.
Types of operating systems
Before deciding which operating system is best for a laptop, you should consider the features of all operating systems for this type of technology. The most common three types of OS:
- macOS;
- Windows by Microsoft;
- linux.
It is necessary to consider in more detail the pros and cons of these operating systems.
macOS
Installing MacOS on any other laptop will not work except (we are not talking about a virtual OS). This system is intended only for "apple" machines.
Macbooks should be considered only as a whole with an operating system that is regularly updated by the manufacturer.
linux
The system works even on the most low-power laptops. It is distributed free of charge in the form of open source distributors. As a result, the system has the opportunity to modify and change the OS. Linux Mint comes in builds with three interfaces:
- Xfce - a system for the weakest devices that have less than 1 GB of RAM;
- Mate - a classic interface for more powerful devices;
- Cinnamon is a modern version of the interface that can only be installed if there is at least 2 GB random access memory.
The disadvantages of the system include some problems with installing specific devices in which a driver for this operating system may not be written.
Few people know about operating system endless on a laptop, what is it. This is the OS installed on Linux-based. Easily installed on most ASUS and ACER laptops that are sold in Russian stores.
Windows
By far the most popular operating system today is Microsoft's Windows.
It is difficult to find a replacement for it, especially for people who work with a number of specific applications that run exclusively under "windows", as well as for gamers.
What "windows" to install?
- For low-power laptops (up to 1 GB of RAM and a 1-core processor), the “good old” Windows XP is the best fit.
This OS has proven itself very well, all the "holes" and "bugs" in it are quite well "patched" and if the laptop is only required to provide Internet surfing, work in office applications, watching videos and simple photo editing, Windows XP will extend the life of even the oldest device.
- After a failed Windows Vista, The Seven was a real breakthrough for Microsoft:
- Fast
- With a new attractive interface
- Works with different processor architecture
If the laptop has at least 2 GB of RAM and a 2-core processor, then Windows 7 will be the perfect choice.
The OS has two versions 32 bit and 64 bit. Many application programs are now available exclusively in 64-bit version. However, for Windows installation 7 64 you need to have at least 6 GB of RAM.
- - last of Windows families has many advantages and, perhaps, as many disadvantages. These include constant unauthorized updates, sending reports to the manufacturer's office, and even spying on the user.
Nevertheless, it is better to install the top ten on a new one, since Microsoft provides its full support, which cannot be said about previous versions systems.
DOS
This system was on most computers literally 10-15 years ago. The main advantage of this operating system is the close interaction with the equipment. This is also a disadvantage. latest version appeared in 2003.
FreeDOS is a new, modern and MS-DOS compatible operating system.
The choice of operating system should be approached very carefully, because if you choose the wrong one, you will not be able to use all the capabilities of your device.
When choosing, you need to pay attention to:
- and laptop power;
- the availability of drivers in the selected OS for the programs that are planned to be used;
- ease of installation use.
The choice can be made independently or contact a specialist who, based on the power of the laptop, will advise a specific operating system.
Which operating system to choose for a weak machine
If the machine is weak and does not have a large amount of RAM, then the choice of operating system should be approached especially carefully. Otherwise, problems will arise during operation, the laptop will slow down, up to a complete freeze.
The most suitable operating system for an old laptop is Windows Xp. It needs minimum requirements. But it should be borne in mind that this Windows itself is also outdated.
For weak devices, the more modern Windows 7 is also suitable. This is the best solution even for very weak machines. They may well be completed with this OS.
Features of installing various systems
All operating systems during the installation process give hints and detailed instructions. This greatly simplifies the installation process. The OS can be loaded both from a USB flash drive and from a disk or other third-party media.
Linux Mint installation can be downloaded from the official website.
At Linux installation users who are accustomed to Windows may experience difficulties, but it is enough to read the provided literature on installing the OS on the network and everything will be in order.
Many of us have old system builds and laptops that can be great learning material for other users. However, installing sufficiently powerful operating systems on such assemblies (starting with Windows 7) will not make it possible to work with devices. PCs will freeze and their use will be a burden. Therefore, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with our list of operating systems for weak PCs and laptops.
Choosing an 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 is distributed free of charge and is suitable for both home and office use. Unlike Windows XP, to which Linux Mint is an alternative, the latter is still supported and regularly updated.
Why do we offer Linux Mint as an option for a weak PC?
The Linux Mint interface is similar to Windows XP. It uses the same window organization, taskbar, Start button. However, there are a few differences to consider when choosing Linux Mint.
- There is a Linux Mint Cinnamon build. Suitable for devices with 2 GB of RAM. Allows you to use gadgets, many programs for working with office documents.
- Linux Mint Xfce is a build for devices with less than 1 GB of RAM. It has the simplest interface, lightweight, does not load unnecessary visual effects processor and memory.
- 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 Ext4 file system;
- No telemetry (surveillance of the user);
- There is no need to install an antivirus, as there are very few viruses for Linux.
Disadvantages of such an easy build:
- Not big choice software;
- Incompatibility with some device components and connected gadgets, such as a printer, scanner, etc. (lack of official drivers);
- Difficulty in mastering after using Windows.
Chrome OS is Google's operating system, which was specifically designed for weak netbooks designed only for web surfing and using Google services. Based on Linux. Supports both ARM and x86 processors. Allows you to work with both Google services and applications that can be downloaded from Play market. Control is possible both from the keyboard and from the mouse.
The advantages of such an operating system:
- Distributed free of charge;
- Minimum consumption of system resources;
- Native set support file systems, including NTFS and Ext4;
- Wider base of third-party software.
Disadvantages of this operating system:
- Installed only on Chromebooks. It is possible to download only Chromium OS - an operating system with an open source code.
- There may be a conflict with some installed and connected equipment.
Desktop Android is a mobile operating system that is adapted for PC. Installation is possible versions up to 8.1. So far, Android 8.1 for PC is malfunctioning. However, earlier versions install and work without problems.
Why is the desktop version of the Android operating system suitable for weak PCs?
- 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 pre-installed Launcher 3, which allows you to organize the familiar Start menu.
- It is possible to split the screen into two work areas;
- The system comes with Super User rights, and therefore you can use the console and download various applications, fulfill fine tuning systems.
Advantages of the Android desktop operating system:
- Works free of charge, does not require the purchase of a license;
- Support for file systems and NTFS, and more advanced Ext4;
- It also works with 1 GB of RAM, and therefore is suitable for weak PCs;
- Huge selection of apps Google Play.
Cons of Android for PC:
- May not be compatible with some computer components.
For those who are not considering any options other than Windows, we suggest considering the top three lightweight builds:
- Windows 7 Embedded;
- Windows 8.1 Embedded;
- Windows 10 LTSC.
Windows 7 Embedded is the official lightweight version of regular Windows 7, which is designed for weaker PCs. The assembly is fast enough, noticeably faster than Linux Mint Cinnamon and can even work on computers with 512 MB of RAM. And while for Linux Mint a minimum of 1.3 GHz is declared for the processor, for Windows 7 Embedded this minimum is only 1 GHz. This is the most optimal replacement for Windows XP while maintaining "loyalty" to Microsoft.
The advantages of Windows 7 Embedded for weak PCs are as follows:
- Fast on old and weak PCs;
- familiar environment for Windows users 7 Embedded;
- A complete, stable, versatile desktop operating system that works with all programs and applications.
Cons of Windows 7 Embedded:
- Standard Windows errors.
Windows 8.1 Embedded - a stripped-down version of Embedded for production equipment, only in a variation of Windows 8.1. Like Windows 7 Embedded, necessary minimum for her in terms of processor power - only 1 GHz. But the RAM must be at least 1 GB.
Windows 8.1 Embedded does not have the classic Start menu, but you can download a program online to implement the familiar interface. This assembly supports all programs for Windows and still receives security updates.
The benefits of building Windows 8.1 Embedded are as follows:
- Fast enough for weak PCs;
- Still being updated;
- Supports everything that full Windows 8.1;
- There are no restrictions on the use of software.
The disadvantages of Windows 8.1 Embedded, as in all Windows builds, are standard BSODs.
Lightweight enterprise version of Windows 10 LTSC is a conditionally suitable build for low-end devices. It comes with missing UWP functionality and only receives security updates. It has limited functionality and allows you to run only some applications. Not all games will run on it.
Essentially, Windows 10 LTSC is designed to stable operation on corporate computers. The only thing that Windows 10 LTSC will help weak computers with is a little less RAM consumption. However, Windows 10 LTSC is free for 365 days and then you need to purchase a license.
As you can see, there are options for lightweight operating systems for installation on weak PCs. We would recommend to pay attention to Linux and Windows 7 Embedded. These systems will really work quickly on weak assemblies and will be understandable in development. However, you can try others.
Hello friends. Which operating system is better to install on the old or new, but low power computer? On our site there are reviews of specific Windows builds that can more or less revive a weak PC or laptop, they are posted in the "" heading. It also contains links to articles that provide various ways software optimization for more efficient use of hardware resources. This article will add to the existing knowledge base of this section, in it we will conduct a comprehensive review of operating systems that can be considered as an option for installation on a weak PC or laptop. And the review will include not only Windows assemblies, but also other operating systems.
With other operating systems, I suggest starting.
1.Linux Mint
Linux Mint is a popular Linux distribution, a lightweight operating system positioned as one of the best alternatives Windows XP. But unlike the latter, Linux Mint is a live, maintained system with regular security patches. Moreover, this distribution kit is comfortable for transition from Windows. Linux Mint is, unlike Ubuntu, a system with a Windows-like interface: with the same window organization, with a taskbar at the bottom, with an analogue of the Start menu.
Linux Mint comes in builds 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 ability to install desktops (like Windows 7 gadgets). Cinnamon can be installed if you have at least 2 GB of RAM.
Linux Mint with Cinnamon interface comes with a standard package of utilities such as a calculator, notes, an image viewer, a screenshot, etc., a browser Mozilla Firefox, Thunderbird mailer, Transmission torrent downloader, disk analyzer, office libreoffice package, two graphic editor, three media players, etc.
Pros of Linux Mint:
Work with a more advanced than NTFS, Ext4 file system,
no telemetry,
There is no need for an antivirus.
Cons of Linux Mint:
Small selection of third-party software,
Possible problems with specific computer devices for which drivers are not written under Linux,
The complexity of mastering and working with the console to solve those tasks that are solved extremely simply in Windows.
Installing Linux Mint is simple, the distribution is downloaded from the official website of the project:
2.Chrome OS
Chrome OS is an operating system from Google, specially designed for weak netbooks, sharpened for web surfing and using Google services. Based on Linux, heavily stuffed Google services, supports both ARM and x86 processors. Very minimalistic, provides only basic system capabilities, in fact it is a familiar environment with a desktop and tightly integrated into it Chrome browser. Supported system content includes extensions and applications from the Chrome store, as well as optimized applications from Google Play (which are for Android).
Chrome OS is the very thing for very old laptops, but, of course, on the condition that their hardware stuffing starts up in the system. And she may not all start. The fact is that Chrome OS is designed for specific devices - Chromebooks. It is not, like Windows or Linux, a system for mass use on desktops. Chrome OS only comes pre-installed on Chromebooks. Google is not exactly preventing its system from being installed on non-Chromebooks, as Apple does, for example, forbidding Mac OS from being installed on non-Mac devices. Google simply does not officially supply its operating system, because it cannot guarantee its universality. Unofficially, there are enthusiast-supported Chromium OS projects on the net - open source systems, i.e. an analogue of Chrome OS open for modification. Chromium OS builds also do not guarantee massive support for hardware, here it’s how lucky in each individual case.
Where to get and how to install Chromium OS? On the websites of her various projects. For example, modified builds of Chromium OS are offered at:
It is also written there how this case is established.
How to download the distribution kit of the system, how to install it - all this is described on the CloudReady website:
Both projects are in English, for those who are not friends with this language, I remind you that we live in the 21st century, there are such things as Google- or Yandex-translator.
Pros of ChromiumOS:
free operating system,
Minimum hardware load,
Native support for many file systems, including NTFS and Ext4.
Cons of ChromiumOS:
Limited, system only for web surfing and simple philistine operations,
3.Android
What is an operating room android system I guess no one needs to explain. But few people know that there are projects of enthusiasts on the network who are engaged in adapting Android to work with x86 processors, i.e. for the operation of the system on PCs and laptops. Such a project, for example, is here:
Here as update Google android for mobile devices 32- and 64-bit releases of this system adapted for desktops are laid out. As of the date of this writing, there are already distributions of Android 8.1, but I have not been able to install this version on a PC. But earlier releases of Android 7.1 have been installed for me. What is desktop Android 7.1?
Android-x86 7.1-r2 is the second (refined) release of pure desktop Android 7.1, a mouse-friendly windowed operating system.
Borrowed from Windows function split screen Snap.
And even with the pre-installed launcher Launcher3, like a familiar desktop with an analogue of the Start menu.
But if we want, we can choose another launcher - Taskbar - and work in a typical Android tablet environment.
The system comes with superuser rights, an embedded console and a minimal set of standard applications. Everything you need is downloaded from Google Play.
The CM-x86-14.1-r2 release is the second release of LineageOS (formerly known as CyanogenMod), a custom build based on Android 7.1. It is also a rooted, console-tailored, windowed operating system, but with a slightly different set of pre-installed applications and a different launcher instead of Launcher3 - the Trebuchet launcher.
Distributions of desktop Android are laid out in ISO images, the installation of the system is complicated in terms of choosing the installation location, but the network is full of manuals.
Pros 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 of desktop Android:
Not the fact that all computer components will work,
Stability is not guaranteed.
Well, now let's look at the three truncated Windows distributions, which can be used on weak computers.
4. Windows 7 Embedded
Windows 7 Embedded is Microsoft's official stripped down build of the regular Windows 7 for production hardware. Very fast, noticeably faster than Linux Mint Cinnamon, it can run even on devices with 512 MB of RAM. And while Linux Mint claims a minimum of 1.3 GHz processor, for Windows 7 Embedded this minimum is 1 GHz. This is the best replacement for Windows XP. True, Microsoft will only deliver security updates for the Seven until January 2020. All parts for this build.
Pros of Windows 7 Embedded:
fast,
Cons of Windows 7 Embedded:
5. Windows 8.1 Embedded
Windows 8.1 Embedded - another stripped-down build of Embedded for production equipment, only in release Windows versions 8.1. Like Windows 7 Embedded, the required minimum for it in terms of processor is only 1 GHz. But the RAM must be at least 1 GB. Windows 8.1Embedded is also a nimble system, with the bare minimum of Modern UI apps preinstalled.
But you can clean them out of the system along with the store, install some third-party program to implement the Start menu and get, in fact, evolved Windows 7 - the current operating system, updated in terms of security, with classic G8 functions, stable and predictable computer environment. All parts for this assembly
Windows 10 LTSC is designed to be stable on enterprise PCs, but it's not geared for low-end hardware like Windows 7 and 8.1 Embedded. What Windows 10 LTSC will help weak computers with is a little less RAM consumption, a slightly smaller number of background processes and the absence of functional updates that can put a weak computer into a stupor. All details about Windows 10 LTSC.
Pros of Windows 10 LTSC:
Familiar environment for Windows users,
Potentially 360 days of free activation,
A complete, stable, versatile desktop operating system.
Cons of Windows 10 LTSC:
The cons are the same as all Windows, and you can write volumes of books about it.
Summing up…
Which of all the systems considered is better for a weak PC or laptop, of course, only an experiment on installing it on a specific device will show. The best option, so as not to waste time on mastering the specifics of other operating systems, so that any hardware works exactly, in order to have a stable up-to-date platform for a variety of software, is, of course, Windows 8.1 Embedded. In cases, for example, if some dilapidated laptop is lying around at home, you can try to make a toy for children based on Android out of it. Chrome OS can be used for web surfing even without hard drive, running the system on a flash drive and saving files to Google Drive. Well, and Linux Mint ... Although this particular distribution is quite good, but without immersion in the philosophy of Linux, it will be difficult for an avid Windows user who is accustomed to the principle of “poke and it will work”, it will be difficult to stay on this system. Unless, of course, you use it more than for web surfing and watching movies.
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 does not have such a great 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 of Linux-based operating systems definitely deserve attention. In addition to Ubuntu, which is 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 PC with 1 GB of RAM and a low-powered 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 good (in general) suitability for weak computers and laptops. It consumes more battery power than the notorious Windows 7, but it also runs a little 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 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 all 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!