I actually think the improvements in Windows 8 are good, if you can get past the interface. I use 8.1 on my "main" non-gaming rig. I do still use 7 on my sim racing / gaming rig though. There are a ton of 3rd party 'solutions' to returning the start menu to the desktop - where I spend 99% of my time. The good news is that Windows 9 will be losing the 'charms', and the start menu will be coming back. Not enough of a reason to upgrade to 8 from 7 though (I did because I got 8 for $15 promo), but I wouldn't go out of my way to avoid having it either.