What is needed to run Windows 8.1 good?

[Remobz]

I see many cheap laptops for less than $300 but wonder how it would run Windows 8.1?

In your opinion what would be the essentials to run windows 8.1 good?

Amount of ram?

Intel or AMD?

Proc speed? Dual core?

etc..etc..

 

[MustISO]

i3, 4GB of RAM would do fine. Friend just got one of the $349 laptops that was an i3, 6GB RAM and 8.1 and it runs really well. Hard drive is the slowest part of the system. An SSD in there would scream.

 

[damaliya]

From my perspective, the CPU must be dual-core or more, and the RAM must be 4GB or more, this is basic specifications to run windows 8.1 smoothly.

 

[RU482]

an Atom...ahem, Celeron N2920 w/4GB ram runs it good, even at 1920x1200

 

[VirtualLarry]

A computer put together in the last 5-6 years?

 

[code65536]

Any computer within the past few years... with a SSD.

With low-end machines, a SSD makes the difference between a nice user experience and wanting to tear your hair out.

If you are planning to get a low-end $200 machine with a Celeron N (Bay Trail Atom), you'll be just fine, provided you also budget $50 for a SSD. Oh, and make sure you get 4GB of RAM. Or if you do get 2GB, make sure it's upgradeable.

 

[corkyg]

To run using the Metro interface, a touchscreen is suggested.

 

[Charlie98]

With low-end machines, a SSD makes the difference between a nice user experience and wanting to tear your hair out.

I agree... :thumbsup: particularly in a laptop.

 

[Chiefcrowe]

I'd also highly recommend an SSD! Now from turning on the power to being able to start a program and open it is under 10 seconds!

 

[PliotronX]

I'd also highly recommend an SSD! Now from turning on the power to being able to start a program and open it is under 10 seconds!

Yup, once you go SSD, you don't go back.