Exploring Windows 11 on the ASUS Vivobook
As the clock ticks down on Windows 10, which will only receive free updates for the next 15 months, users are faced with the prospect of transitioning to Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system. Released in late 2021, Windows 11 aims to succeed its predecessor, yet statistics reveal that less than 30% of current Windows users have made the switch. With the recent integration of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon CPU architecture into Microsoft laptops, I embarked on a journey to experience Windows 11 firsthand on an ASUS Vivobook, my new daily driver.
Initial Setup Challenges
The initial setup proved to be a test of patience. I found it challenging to opt out of creating an online account, a necessity for accessing certain features. As someone who values offline privacy, I was disheartened to discover that without an internet connection, I could not access my files. Ultimately, I settled for an online account, but this decision came with its own set of complications. Upon logging in, I was met with a flood of old files from my high school days, a digital resurrection I had not anticipated. This intrusive experience prompted me to create a local account, grant it administrator privileges, and swiftly delete the online account. I prefer to keep my desktop experience separate from my online life; otherwise, I might as well opt for a Chromebook.
Interface and Usability
After two months of using Windows 11, I found the experience to be largely akin to that of Windows 7 and 10. It offers reliability, extensive app support, and a sense of novelty. My primary activities on this OS include utilizing creative tools, enjoying music and media, browsing the web, and engaging in light gaming.
Hybrid Device Experience
The real revelation came not from the operating system itself, but from the hardware of the Vivobook. With its responsive touchscreen and 360-degree hinge, I discovered a new level of versatility. The ability to seamlessly transition between tablet and laptop modes felt reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch’s multi-functional design. I had never considered that a desktop OS could thrive on a touchscreen, but the experience has been transformative. Navigating through applications using touch gestures has become second nature, making it difficult to return to a non-touchscreen laptop without feeling somewhat outdated.
Application and File Management
The combination of downloading applications from both developer websites and the Microsoft Store creates a harmonious blend of functionality reminiscent of both iPad and Android experiences, all while retaining the advantages of a desktop OS. Notably, users can download apps from the Microsoft Store without needing to log into a Microsoft account, which is a welcome convenience. The ability to open multiple directories in tabs within Windows Explorer adds to the user-friendly experience, particularly on an ultra-portable laptop where screen space is at a premium.
Comparison to Other OSs
A cherished feature that has persisted through Windows 7, 10, and now 11 is Windows Snap, which allows users to tile application windows for efficient multitasking. Windows 11 enhances this capability, offering users five organizational configurations for tiling multiple apps on their screen. This feature has garnered such popularity that Apple is set to introduce a similar function in their upcoming MacOS Sequoia. For those in need of a new computer after several years, investing in a device with Windows 11, like the Vivobook, is a worthwhile consideration.
