Hardware Compatibility

[Megan Roberts]

I currently run Windows XP, but am thinking about buying a new computer which means changing to Windows 8. Does anyone know how I can check that other hardware devices (printer, scanner) will still work with Windows 8?

[Peter Goodey]

Dell, for example, are still selling PCs with Windows 7 but you need to look in the Business, not the Home section.

In my experience you get better service if you buy from the business section!

[Geoff Wycherley]

You might have to download new drivers for Windows 8, check on the web site for whoever manufactured the printer,scanner etc, that should tell you if you do need updates. I upgrdaded from XP to Windows 7 last year the updated drivers that were required were easily downloaded.

[Nicolina]

Dell, for example, are still selling PCs with Windows 7 but you need to look in the Business, not the Home section.

In my experience you get better service if you buy from the business section!

you can still get Windows 7 computers and at a discount. Might be worth considering. I recently bought one and saved £70, not a fortune but better in my pocket than theirs.

[MarkJ]

Does Windows 7 fare any better than 8 when it comes to older hardware compatability?
If you look hard enough, you can buy machines with either no operating system or with one of the Open Source systems. You could then install XP on that (or better still, keep/install an Open Source system such as Linux).

Finding drivers for XP may be an issue though. Microsoft like you to keep upgrading and feeding the coffers....

I can't remember the last time I bought a ready made computer (actually, I never have - only laptops). I always buy the hardware and make the machine up myself - but you can easily find a tech savvy person to assist you to create a machine to your spec if you want to.

Quite honestly, having seen Windows 8, I would stick with your XP. It might be getting old, but it is reliable now they have patched the issues.

You can even buy laptops which are OS free - and you can install whateve system you wish.

[David Benson]

There is a Windows 8 compatibility checker here - https://
windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8
It will tell you what will or won't work. Some programs will need to be upgraded (often free) and what you will need to replace or do without.