It is comfortable to work with Windows on regularly updated equipment, but on older computers it often begins to “slip.” Fortunately, there are alternative operating systems for this case - lightweight and safe.

A recent study by the well-known company Avast provides a good indication of what kind of equipment people actually use. About a third of users still work on computers 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 less, and the presence of an SSD is rather an exception. We think this is good. Don't worry and continue using your devices. At the operating room Windows systems There are also lighter alternatives that are suitable for older computers.

Lubuntu: A lightweight version of Ubuntu

The list of leaders is headed by Lubuntu - compact Ubuntu version with LXDE desktop.

Linux is a lighter system than Windows, in part because it has many various options graphical interface. If you look at Ubuntu and its “daughter” Lubuntu with the LXDE desktop, 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 the user Windows work The system shouldn't be difficult to use, so it's worth a try.

Linux Mint XFCE: Another Ubuntu Alternative

Slim Mint is a lightweight version of Linux Mint with the XFCE desktop that saves resources.

Even the most popular version of Linux, Linux Mint, is available with a cost-effective interface. We recommend Linux Mint XFCE for slightly older hardware. Be sure to try the built-in tools, such as the Xplayer media player or the Xreader PDF viewer. They use resources very carefully.

Elementary OS: in the luxurious atmosphere of MacOS

Elementary OS stands out for its chic appearance.

Elementary OS benefits from its look by incorporating macOS design elements. At the same time, Linux is hidden under the shell. Thanks to the built-in AppStore, you can equip the system with additional software; basic programs are already installed.

Puppy Linux: it couldn't be easier

Puppy Linux is a very cost-effective alternative for those who want to save resources as much as possible.

If the above-mentioned operating systems are not suitable for you because you do not have enough resources, then Puppy Linux may be a good option for you. However, this distribution is significantly reduced in functionality, which makes working with it somewhat more complicated.

CloudReady: Chrome OS for self-installation

With CloudReady, you can install Chrome OS on any hardware.

An option that differs from all the Windows alternatives presented above: CloudReady. It allows users to install Chrome OS on any hardware. Please note: Chrome OS is online, meaning you need an Internet connection to use it. operating system It is quite economical, so CloudReady is recommended for use on devices intended for Internet surfing.

Should I use outdated equipment?

Does it still work or is it time to throw it away? There will undoubtedly come a time when you will have to part with your old equipment. But there's nothing wrong with keeping old devices for as long as possible. But the software must be fresh - it is better to replace outdated Windows XP or Vista. If old equipment refuses to work with current version Windows, there are always many lightweight alternatives.

Many of us have old system builds and laptops that can be excellent learning material for other users. However, installing fairly powerful operating systems on such assemblies (starting with Windows 7) will not allow you to work with the devices. PCs will freeze and using them 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 a free version of the popular Linux operating system developed by The Linux Foundation and 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 organization of windows, taskbar, and Start button. However, there are a few differences to consider when choosing Linux Mint.

• There is a build of Linux Mint Cinnamon. Suitable for devices with 2GB RAM. Allows you to use gadgets and 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 burden unnecessary visual effects processor and memory.
• Linux Mint Mate is an operating system with classic interface GNOME 2.

Among the advantages of Linux Mint it is worth highlighting:

• Works on weak builds;
• Works with Ext4 file system;
• No telemetry (user tracking);
• There is no need to install an antivirus, since there are very few viruses for Linux.

Disadvantages of such an easy assembly:

• Not large selection software;
• Incompatibility with some device components and connected gadgets, such as a printer, scanner, etc. (lack of official drivers);
• Difficult to learn after using Windows.

Chrome OS is an operating system from Google that was specially designed for weak netbooks intended only for web surfing and using Google services. Based on Linux. Supports both ARM and x86 processors. Allows you to work with Google services, as well as with 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 such an operating system:

• Installs only on Chromebooks. It is possible to download only Chromium OS, an open source operating system.
• There may be a conflict with some installed and connected equipment.

Desktop Android is a mobile operating system that is adapted for PCs. Installation is possible for versions up to 8.1. So far, Android 8.1 for PC is working with glitches. However, earlier versions install and work without problems.

Why a desktop version of the operating system? Android systems 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, perform fine tuning systems.

Advantages of the Android desktop operating system:

• It works free of charge and does not require purchasing a license;
• Support for both NTFS and more advanced Ext4 file systems;
• It also works with 1 GB of RAM, and therefore is suitable for weak PCs;
• Huge selection of applications with Google Play.

Cons of Android for PC:

• May be incompatible with some computer components.

For those who are not considering any options other than Windows, we suggest considering three lightweight assemblies:

• Windows 7 Embedded;
• Windows 8.1 Embedded;
• Windows 10 LTSC.

Windows 7 Embedded is an official lightweight version of regular Windows 7, which is designed for weaker PCs. The assembly is quite fast, noticeably faster than Linux Mint Cinnamon and can even work on computers with 512 MB of RAM. And while for Linux Mint the processor minimum is 1.3 GHz, for Windows 7 Embedded this minimum is only 1 GHz. This is the best option Windows replacement XP while remaining “loyal” 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, universal desktop operating system that works with all programs and applications.

Cons of Windows 7 Embedded:

• Standard Windows errors.

Windows 8.1 Embedded is a stripped-down version of Embedded for production equipment, only in the Windows 8.1 variation. Like Windows 7 Embedded, the required minimum processor power for it is 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 build supports all Windows programs and also receives security updates.

The benefits of the Windows 8.1 Embedded build 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 the software.

Disadvantages of Windows 8.1 Embedded as in all Windows builds– standard BSOD.

Lite corporate Windows version 10 LTSC is a conditionally suitable assembly for weak 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 run smoothly on corporate computers. The only thing that Windows 10 LTSC will help weak computers 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 paying attention to Linux and Windows 7 Embedded. These systems will really work quickly on weak builds and will be easy to learn. However, you can try the rest.

Probably, many who read these lines have an old desktop or laptop computer that they simply cannot throw away, and it is simply impossible to use it in 2018.

What is the essence of the problem

All low-budget computer solutions from three or four years ago, the basis of which is Intel processor Atom or Celeron, collecting dust on the shelves. Selling such computers is quite difficult. By and large, simply using such a computer in modern realities is simply uncomfortable. Upgrading hardware is not always beneficial for the owner.

Difficulty of modernization

In the vast majority of netbooks and budget laptops, the processor is soldered using BGA balls on motherboard. Therefore, it is not possible to make a cheap upgrade in the form of replacing the processor. With RAM in such computer solutions, things are no better. Everything is soldered, but there is simply nowhere to install an additional module. Installing an SSD is the only hardware improvement that can be made in such computers. Unfortunately, not every owner of such equipment will want to spend 3-4 thousand rubles for such an improvement.

How to improve the performance of an old computer without investing money

In this publication, we will look at how to give a second life to such a computer by installing an operating system based on the Linux kernel. This is a decision to allow such a computer to be given a second life.

Why Linux?

Probably one of alternative options An OS that is undemanding in terms of hardware would be Windows XP. Unfortunately, this operating system is not the best option, since its support has ended. Microsoft representatives will not send you updates or patches for software vulnerabilities. Perhaps this OS is an example of the most unprotected system. Installing antivirus software is unlikely to solve all problems with vulnerabilities in this OS. In addition, any antivirus will constantly “eat up” part of the processor’s performance and the amount of free RAM space. Newer versions of Microsoft's OS will be even slower. Study Win optimization 7 for a low-performance computer is always very long and not always effective. Therefore, the Linux distribution is a profitable alternative for such computers. At the time of writing this article, there are several current distributions that are ideal for such tasks.

What's the point of netbooks and old office computers in 2018?

Of course, these computers are not designed for the latest games and video editing programs. The main task of such technology is to provide convenient Internet surfing and use standard programs from office suite. It makes no sense to install the Win 10 operating system on such a computer: the operating system itself, in idle mode, will eat up the entire potential of the processor and RAM. In addition, any antivirus activity software will call complete freeze similar system. To avoid such a scenario, you need to consider options for installing an alternative to Windows. Perhaps, the best option there will be some lightweight Linux distribution. This operating system will be a unique solution that will wisely use the meager amount of RAM of such computers. Practically complete absence viruses eliminates the need to install an antivirus. There are well-optimized Internet browsers for Linux that make it much more comfortable to enjoy all the benefits of access to the global web.

It is Linux as a software foundation that will manifest itself as a less demanding, but at the same time quite relevant OS. The benefits are obvious: such a PC can be given to children for online toys, to grandma for communication via social media or Skype. If your needs are limited only to web surfing, then you can use such a computer yourself. Next, we will consider five distributions that can give such computing machines a second wind.

Perhaps the most beginner-friendly distribution is CloudReady: Home Edition. It is produced by the promising young company Neverware. By and large, CloudReady is an excellent analogue of Chrome OS from Google. By design, this distribution is a cloud OS. Nothing superfluous inside: only a web browser and applications for Google Chrome. Works very fast and stable on any netbook or old PC. If your main task is to use the Internet, then you are unlikely to be able to find anything better than it.

Among the advantages, it is worth noting good stability, speed, user-friendliness of the interface, clarity, as well as good compatibility with applications from the Google Chrome store. It’s also worth mentioning that, if desired, you can run very in a cunning way programs that are designed for Android OS. All applications from the official store are installed quite simply. This is a very rare Linux distribution, using which you will avoid “dancing with a tambourine.” The developers did everything possible to make the system work according to the principle: download, connect to the Internet and all services are ready to work.

Phoenix OS is good analogue Android, which was optimized for netbooks, office computers and weak laptops. The idea is very interesting: the developers have remade modern Android, which is used in tablets and smartphones, for installation on a regular computer. The user receives an incredibly fast and modern operating system with many supported applications.

Advantages of Phoenix OS: fast, low CPU load, intuitive user interface, and huge amount the most modern programs.

Flaws: poor optimization of programs for running on a laptop. Unfortunately, it is difficult to do anything about this shortcoming, because all programs available on Google Play are written taking into account the fact that they will be used on mobile device. For example, on an Android smartphone or tablet. Probably, the developers of such programs did not even suspect that someone would want to use their brainchild on a netbook, laptop or desktop computer. All programs, of course, start and work, but they look a little strange. To get rid of appearance problems, it is best to download applications that are optimized for Android TV.

A good option for computers with a low operating system capacity is the Puppy Linux distribution. This is a very lightweight Linux distribution. It will run on any netbook and old computer. The quality of optimization is amazing: the distribution works quickly on any device 5-7 years old. Low HDD read-write speeds are not a serious obstacle for this OS.

Xubuntu - remade Ubuntu

Xubuntu is an excellent system for low performance computers. This is a unique alternative to the resource-hungry Ubuntu system. The system is positioned by the creators as lightweight and fast, but while maintaining decent functionality and incredibly flexible settings. In terms of application support, Xubuntu does very well: it is compatible with almost everything that appears in the Ubuntu repository.

Q4OS

This is a very interesting distribution for netbooks and old computers whose owners were fans of Windows XP. The external design of the graphical desktop environment is made with obvious borrowing of design ideas from Windows XP. The manufacturer of this distribution clearly created a product that would be the most correct distribution for an easy transition from Windows to Linux. The installation process of this system on boot drive extremely simple and clear.

Advantages of the Q4OS distribution: it works stably and very quickly, uses a tiny amount of RAM, and also provokes a pleasant “nostalgic” feeling in the user through the design of Win XP.

Disadvantages of Q4OS: partial support for the Russian language in interface elements.

Modern operating systems are well optimized. This thesis has been confirmed many times by Windows 10, which runs on the lowest-power PCs, and various Linux distributions aimed at speed lovers. The user today does not have much choice - some a priori do not want to give up Windows. Others, in search of speed and reliability, look towards less popular operating systems.

Which operating system will be optimal for a laptop?

For a laptop, the speed of programs is especially important - machines of this class are not as powerful as their desktop counterparts. And that’s why well-optimized software comes out on top. Let's look at some alternative options.

Numerous builds of Linux-based operating systems are definitely worth 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 bar, makes Elementary OS a clear choice for Apple fans. It uses its own shell called Pantheon. This means that the system cannot be confused with another popular distribution. Except with macOS.

Elementary performs well on a PC with 1 GB of RAM 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 Elementary distribution is easy to set up and use. It can be accused of considerable consumption of resources and increased consumption of battery capacity. There are a lot of reviews online from users that Elementary is not fully ready. But overall it's reliable enough for most everyday tasks.

This Linux release has not yet gained much attention from the community. It’s quite strange if you note its obvious “+”:

1. The system is quite fast and stable.
2. A good set of built-in applications (including cloud ones).
3. Low energy consumption.

The disadvantages of Peppermint include its not entirely modern and standard interface. This is unlikely to prevent you from choosing it if the laptop's resources are used only for work.

The system requirements for the build are low. She needs at least 512 MB of RAM (more is better), at least 4 GB of hard drive space and Internet access.

The most popular release of Linux has served well to popularize free software since 2004. They started talking a lot about this system a few years later, when Canonical sent out a free CD with Ubuntu to everyone.

Unfortunately, in 2011, Canonical stopped supporting Ubuntu Netbook, a release specifically for low-power laptops and netbooks. But Ubuntu to this day boasts good (in general) suitability for weak computers and laptops. It uses more battery power than the notorious Windows 7, but is slightly faster and supports more hardware.

Extensibility and appearance systems also deserve attention. Ubuntu is easy to customize, although in earlier releases (prior to version 14) it was possible to configure many more settings than now.

With the hardware requirements, everything is not so smooth:

• The standard shell requires at least 2 GB of RAM. Third-party ones (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 or more.

Linux can be used as the main system without problems if you have purchased weak laptop without an OS and don’t want to spend a considerable amount on Windows license. Or you are disgusted by piracy. But keep in mind that compatibility issues and the relatively small number of applications for these operating systems do not allow us to recommend them to everyone.

Microsoft Windows

So much has been said about this system as about no 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 - single core, from 1 GHz.
• 1 GB RAM.
• The OS occupies 16 GB on the hard drive.
• Requires the video system to support at least DirectX 9.

ADVICE. "Seven" is well optimized for working on laptops and even tablets. If you got it licensed, bundled with an old mobile PC, it hardly makes sense to “transfer” to another OS. If only for...

If you managed to “catch” free update to Windows 10 in the summer of 2016, we sincerely envy you. “Ten” develops the basic ideas of Windows 7, and this can be seen literally in everything:

1. High loading and operating speed (especially with SSD).
2. An even more beautiful interface (although there is a lot of controversy about convenience).
3. Optimal support for almost all existing programs for Windows.
4. Improved (compared to 8.1) touch mode.
5. Regular security updates.

At the same time, Windows 10 works well on computers that can barely handle Windows 7. Today, the system has been tested enough and has gotten rid of the childhood diseases of early releases. Significant disadvantage you can call it 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 the best operating systems of our time is at your service.

Conclusions

We looked at the most suitable, in our opinion, systems for weak laptops. Only macOS remained outside the scope of attention - but it can be classified more as a universal solution (for all types of PCs).

What OS did you choose for your laptop? Would you like to offer your own version of a “somewhat better” operating system? Then welcome to the discussions!