Have you read my earlier article on the Windows 8 upgrade path and price comparison? As for now, Windows 8 comes in 4 different flavors. In this evaluation, we try to compare Windows 8 versions with emphasis on the difference in features, infographics, and reviews from other sites.
- Windows 8
- Windows 8 Pro
- Windows 8 Enterprise
- Windows 8 RT
The list of disparities between the features is given below.
- Support for upgrades from Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, and Home Premium in all the Windows 8 versions, except RT. Upgrades from Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate are supported in Pro and Enterprise versions only.
- Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote are supported only in the RT version.
- Device encryption is supported only in the RT version.
- Installation of x86/64 on desktop is supported in the Windows 8, Pro, and Enterprise versions only.
- Storage Spaces and Windows Media Player are not in the RT version.
- BitLocker and BitLocker To Go, Boot from VHD, Client Hyper-V, Domain Join, Encrypting File System, Group Policy, and Remote Desktop (host) are supported in Pro and Enterprise editions only.
- Windows To Go, Direct Access, BranchCache, AppLocker, VDI Enhancements, and New Windows 8 App Deployment are supported in the Enterprise edition only.
You can see the remaining features supported by different versions of Windows 8 in this infographic.
The color indicators differentiate the features supported in each version. The green color indicates that the particular feature is supported in that version. The red color indicates that the feature is not supported in that particular version.
The basic version of Windows 8 is mainly projected for all 32-bit and 64-bit PCs and laptops and mobile devices that are not running on the ARM architecture. This edition is the simplest and best version for an average user, who likes to surf the web and play a game.
what changed between Windows 8 and Windows 8.1
The Pro version is for the tech enthusiasts. The advanced features are like encryption, virtual machines, and Group Policy Editor. You can also include Windows Media Center, which will be an add-on.
Do you know that there is a 5th Windows 8 version? Ah, not really! It’s the local language version, basically. In developing countries like India and China, Microsoft will release a low-budget version of different Windows 8 editions.
Windows 8 Enterprise is primarily for companies and enterprises. If you already have Windows 7 Enterprise, then this version is considered a viable option if you are keen on upgrading your IT infrastructure.
Well, finally about RT! This is really for the 2013 user. If you are a mobile freak having an ARM CPU, you need Windows 8 RT. This version adds Microsoft’s new Office with touch. This is basically for tablets and smartphones running on ARM CPUs and not for desktops.
upgrading from any Windows 8 edition to Windows 10
This chapter ends the comparison of different Windows 8 editions. Hope you got an idea of which version to buy for your computer usage. Please let me know of any problems or variations you faced in the different Windows 8 versions.
