Now Google has a formidable new competitor: Microsoft. On Windows 10 S, does Microsoft meet all the users' requirements? And when using Chrome OS and Windows 10 S, which one is better?
In addition, to learn more about what Windows 10 S is, readers can refer to the detailed article What is Windows 10 S here to gain more knowledge about this operating system.
Missing Features of Windows 10 S
Windows 10 S has a user interface and design quite similar to Windows 10. Microsoft describes the company's new operating system as: 'The specific configuration of Windows 10 Pro provides a familiar and efficient Windows experience, ensuring safety and performance.' However, Windows 10 S also has some differences. Below are some significant differences you need to know.
Windows 10 S only allows users to download and use apps from the Windows Store. This reduces the experience of traditional software installations. The major limitation of this feature is that not all apps are found in the Windows Store.
For example, if you want to use Adobe Photoshop CS6 for image editing, you can't find the app in Microsoft's apps. Of course, alternative choices are provided: Free PhotoShop Express and PhotoShop Elements 15 for $99.
Microsoft believes these changes are necessary to enhance the security of the new system. By using exclusive apps on the Windows Store, users can avoid the situation of the operating system being 'infected' by malicious software.
Furthermore, the control over app installations is tighter, making the system 'lighter' overall. This means that apps will run faster on devices with lower hardware specifications.
Installing only apps from the Windows Store prevents the system from slowing down over time. The reason for system slowdown is that apps require significant system resources and integrating these apps to start with the system.
Comparing Chrome OS and Windows 10 S
App Installation
While Windows 10 S uses traditional app installations (from the hard drive), Chrome OS utilizes the Internet to install most things.
In the 'early days' of Chrome OS, users practically couldn't use the operating system offline. However, Google later released some programs allowing users to work offline and sync with web servers when connected to Wifi. You can download apps from the Google Play Store, although all movements are carried out through the browser window, with both apps and user data residing in the cloud service.
Web Browsers
Using Microsoft Edge or Chrome on Windows 10? This is not just your question but also a question for many other users worldwide. Read on to find out whether you should use Microsoft Edge or Chrome on Windows 10.
Taking advantage of the lightweight operating system, both Chrome OS and Windows 10 S limit the number of search tools and web browsers. It's obvious that Chrome OS uses Google Chrome as the browser and Google as the search tool, while Windows 10 S uses Microsoft Edge as the browser and Bing as the search tool.
Microsoft's Edge browser has been 'bug-fixed' many times and is regularly updated to the latest version, so there's no issue here. Microsoft also claims that using the Edge browser can extend battery life by over 45% compared to similar devices using the Chrome browser. However, due to the popularity and efficient algorithm, most users prefer using Google over Bing to search for everything on the web.
If you want to compare whether the Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser is more effective on Windows 10, refer to the comparison article on Microsoft Edge and Chrome here to understand the pros and cons of these two browsers and make an informed decision.
Pricing
In terms of hardware, there isn't much difference between devices supported by the two operating systems. You can buy an affordable Chromebook for just $179, while Windows 10 S laptops start at $189, with the expected launch in this summer.
Applications
Both operating systems offer users a variety of apps on Google Play APK. Microsoft claims to have 669,000 apps in the Windows Store, but the Google Play APK Store has more apps. It can be concluded that both operating systems are 'lacking' in apps.
One advantage of ChromeOS that Windows 10 S lacks is the ability to install Android apps on Chromebook. While not all Android apps will work on Chromebook, it still provides users with more choices than Windows 10 S.
Comparison between Chrome OS and Windows 10 S
Between Chrome OS and Windows 10 S, which operating system to choose?
It's challenging to evaluate which operating system works better between Chrome OS and Windows 10 S. For users accustomed to Microsoft's operating system, who prefer not to perform activities like installing apps on the web, Windows 10 S can be a suitable choice. On the other hand, Chrome OS offers more apps and hardware options and has a better browser and search tool.