I strongly dislike Windows 8, and I don't care for the touchsmart. How well does it handle Windows 7? Any issues with using that instead?
992231
Why make life difficult? This is good hardware and could handle Windows 7 just fine. However, it has already been set up by HP for Windows 8. I bought this computer, but hated Windows 8. Amazon allowed me to return it and I bought a Toshiba loaded with Windows 7. My Toshiba is a level or two lower than the HP from a hardware perspective, but is more than adequate for my needs. Plus, I find it much easier using Windows 7 with a mouse. If you don't want Windows 8, buy something with Windows 7 on it.
992232
I was told that it couldn't be down graded, so I just decided to work with Windows 8 and updated it to Windows 8.1.
1170222
To really utilize windows 8 features (gestures, etc.) without a touch screen, we went with Logitech Rechargeable Touchpad T650 with Windows 8 Multi-Touch Navigation - Black and it works 'almost' like a touch screen, but does have a bit of a learning curve.This can easily be used alongside a mouse, but I honestly don't see how anyone could be happy with Windows 8 using only a mouse - too many of the features are gestures that would be difficult if not impossible to duplicate with a mouse. That being said, a mouse WILL lend a lot more control within programs or applications, especially games.Good luck! To really utilize windows 8 features (gestures, etc.) without a touch screen, we went with Logitech Rechargeable Touchpad T650 with Windows 8 Multi-Touch Navigation - Black and it works 'almost' like a touch screen, but does have a bit of a learning curve.This can easily be used alongside a mouse, but I honestly don't see how anyone could be happy with Windows 8 using only a mouse - too many of the features are gestures that would be difficult if not impossible to duplicate with a mouse. That being said, a mouse WILL lend... » Read More To really utilize windows 8 features (gestures, etc.) without a touch screen, we went with Logitech Rechargeable Touchpad T650 with Windows 8 Multi-Touch Navigation - Black and it works 'almost' like a touch screen, but does have a bit of a learning curve.This can easily be used alongside a mouse, but I honestly don't see how anyone could be happy with Windows 8 using only a mouse - too many of the features are gestures that would be difficult if not impossible to duplicate with a mouse. That being said, a mouse WILL lend a lot more control within programs or applications, especially games.Good luck! « Show Less
918509
No - it doesn't have a touch screen, which can be useful with Windows 8, but I haven't had any problems with it so far.
1014124
yes, i have a lenova touchscreen with windows 8 and have no problem with it.
2027812
You wouldn't want Win7 on this. Win8 is way better with touchscreens, and if you hate the new Start interface like I do, google Start8, take a deep, calming breath about the fact that you need to pay $10 to make Win8 what it should've been, and just buy it and be happy. It puts a full, normal Win7 start menu back into Win8 and does everything you'd hope it would do - drag and drop shortcuts onto it, even works with the touchscreen.Also FWIW I upgraded to this laptop from a Win7 laptop, and Win8 boots way, way, way faster.
2017626
Yes it does and I would Recommend the touch version with windows 8 to use windows 8s functionality.
2249666
do not like windows 8 with all the apps already on the desktop. I think the owner should decide what apps to place on a desktop. Also don't like the touch screen - messy.
2038775
That is correct. If you install Windows 8, you will not be able to avail yourself of the "touch" functions. However, with the installed Windows 7, it's just fine.
1755239
XP would be the best choice. Windows 7 would probably work well too. But Windows 8 is for touch device and the interface is way too complex and unstable in my opinion. I have several of them working with Ubuntu too. Linux works really well and very fast!
360748
Touch gestures work for swiping left and right, it could be used for browser back and forward button. I use Win8 and works out of box, I am sure it should work for 7...This mouse might feel different in the beginning but once u get used to it, u will love it
645104
I would not recommend installing Windows 8 on a non-touchscreen notebook like this one... it becomes very counter-intuitive without a digitizer to touch in the Metro-interface. I had to do a bit of modding to get Windows 8 to give me a Start Menu back and start the computer into classic Windows desktop. I then just wiped the computer and went back to Windows 7, since that was what I got after all of the modifications on Windows 8.
1775423
Not that I'm aware. I do hate Win8 but have learned to live with it. It is ridiculous they don't give you the option of Win7.
1271502
Windows 8 sucks anyways....why would you waste your money in the first place?? that's your own fault. I've had this mouse for 2 years now for College, and I've never had problems with my Samsung Windows 7 Laptop. This includes using the mouse anywhere that has wifi, not just @ home. get a pc that works and MOST of all DONT use Windows 8. simple fix
905648
It works with all Windows, Win XP, Win 7, Win 8 and Win 8.1. Some of the touch features even work in Win 7. You can scroll, shrink, selection in Win 7 with this screen
982621
I use windows 7, but I'm sure there is no problem with 8. it's a great unit.ED
283083
I use it on my touch screen PC and really like it. So many people love to whine about how difficult it is....not really, it is just different and a person needs to learn it. There is a free 8.1 upgrade available through Microsoft to take care of some of the concerns out there. I personally have not noticed a big difference. The way you access a Start screen is a little different and the graphics page allows access to anywhere you want to go, but it is very easy to get to the desktop you are used to. I am still learning all the features.
437413
I upgraded after purchasing my Twist. The upgrade was free. So far so good -- except that I still hate Windows 8 in all its forms. If you play computer games the touch screen can be useful (and fun), but for work it's mostly just annoying. On the other hand, it looks as if it will be the only option for at least a while. If you want the technology, buy the Apple version.