- Which was the best version of Windows is the question we’ve asked a few industry experts.
- It’s generally agreed that Windows 11 is not the most popular Microsoft OS, and the numbers show that.
- Read on and see which Windows operating system won the hearts of consumers.
Ask a million people, get a milion answers. Goes for everything, not just for my question, which was “What was the best version of Windows you have ever used and why was it the best for you?“.
Love it or hate it, but Microsoft’s operating system is the most popular OS ever in the consumer space. Windows has its ups and downs, and if you hear the critics, once every two versions you get a bad one, but is it really like this?
I’m biased, so I asked other people to see what their favorite Windows of all times was and why. I’m not afraid to state my on options, so read till the end to see what Windows I nostalgically remember and why.
Anyway, here are the answers I’ve received from industry experts, who were kind enough to share with me their own preferences.
CONTENTS
- Windows 7: stable and reliable platform
- Windows 7: ideal for legal professionals
- Windows 7: balance of functionality and performance
- Windows 10: perfect balance of performance and security
- Windows 95: foundation of modern user interfaces
- Windows XP: simplicity and family fun
- Windows XP or 7: efficient Start menu
- I also think Windows 7 was the best Windows for most users
Windows 7: stable and reliable platform
The best version of Windows I’ve used was Windows 7. It provided a stable and reliable platform, which was crucial for managing daily operations without constant system disruptions. The interface was intuitive, and navigating between applications was straightforward, allowing me to focus on more pressing matters like security systems rather than dealing with technical glitches. The performance was strong, and it delivered consistent speed, which kept productivity levels high.
From a security standpoint, Windows 7’s built-in features made managing firewalls and updates simple. It aligned well with my focus on risk management and compliance. Security updates were seamless, and I could manage them without interruption to my workday. The system’s compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware also ensured that everything functioned smoothly, which was important when dealing with complex security systems.
Windows 7 offered a combination of ease and dependability that made it stand out. When systems work efficiently, you save time and reduce stress. Isn’t it crucial for any business to operate in an environment that minimizes technical distractions?
Douglas Johnston, Managing Director, Bell Fire and Security
Windows 7: ideal for legal professionals
Windows 7 stands out as the best version I have ever used. It combines reliability with an intuitive interface, making it ideal for both professional and personal use. For legal professionals, dependable technology is critical. Windows 7 provided a stable operating system that minimized disruptions, allowing uninterrupted focus on case preparation and client communication.
The straightforward design enhanced productivity. Features like the taskbar’s pinning function and seamless window management simplified multitasking. For example, reviewing case files while drafting legal briefs or scheduling court appearances became more efficient. The operating system’s compatibility with various software, including legal management tools, ensured smooth integration into daily workflows.
Security was another significant advantage. Windows 7 introduced features like BitLocker, offering robust data protection. This was crucial for safeguarding sensitive client information and meeting ethical and legal responsibilities for confidentiality. Its balance of performance, simplicity, and dependability made it a trusted tool during high-pressure situations.
Steven Rodemer, Owner and Attorney, Rodemer & Kane
Windows 7: balance of functionality and performance
For me, the best version of Windows has to be Windows 7. It hit that sweet spot between functionality, performance, and user experience, making it an absolute workhorse for both personal and professional use. At Nerdigital.com, we relied on it extensively during its prime years, and it consistently delivered stability and reliability.
What made Windows 7 stand out was its balance. It built on the successes of Windows XP but modernized the interface, introducing features like the revamped taskbar with pinning options, Aero Peek for better multitasking, and improved search functionality. These were small but transformative updates that made navigating and managing workflows much smoother.
One of the biggest advantages was its stability. Unlike the buggy reputation of its predecessor, Windows Vista, Windows 7 was fast, responsive, and compatible with a wide range of hardware. For businesses like ours, this meant fewer tech issues and downtime, which was critical when running projects with tight deadlines.
Another thing I appreciated about Windows 7 was its adaptability. It ran seamlessly on older hardware, making it a cost-effective choice for startups and SMBs. At Nerdigital, we could optimize resources without worrying about constant hardware upgrades, which was a huge plus in our early stages.
While I’ve since transitioned to Windows 10 and 11 for their enhanced security and productivity features, Windows 7 remains the version that set the standard for what a great operating system should be. Its user-friendly design and dependability created a platform that empowered users to focus on their tasks, not troubleshooting.
In hindsight, Windows 7 was the bridge between the simplicity of older systems and the advanced features of modern ones, and it’ll always hold a special place in my tech journey.
Max Shak, Founder/CEO, Nerdigital
Windows 10: perfect balance of performance and security
The best version of Windows I’ve used is Windows 10. It struck the perfect balance between performance, security, and user experience. The streamlined interface was both modern and familiar, making it easy for me to adapt while maintaining the power and flexibility I need as a software business owner. Windows 10’s stability and compatibility with a wide range of applications and hardware made it incredibly reliable for both daily tasks and more complex development work.
What really stood out for me, though, was Windows 10’s focus on security features, such as Windows Defender, BitLocker, and regular security updates. As a business owner, ensuring data protection is paramount, and these tools provided a solid foundation for keeping our systems safe from threats. The seamless integration of cloud services and virtual desktops also enhanced productivity, making it the most well-rounded version of Windows I’ve experienced for both work and personal use.
Shehar Yar, CEO, Software House
Windows 95: foundation of modern user interfaces
For me, Windows 95 was the best version because it laid the foundation for everything that followed. It introduced the Start menu, taskbar, and windowed interface that became the blueprint for modern operating systems. But what truly made it stand out was its rock-solid performance for its time—it was reliable, intuitive, and, most importantly, it never failed.
Whether you were typing up school assignments or playing Minesweeper, it handled tasks with ease and consistency. Compared to the clunky systems that came before it, Windows 95 felt like stepping into the future. For many, including myself, it was the first OS that made personal computing accessible, exciting, and, above all, dependable. Windows 95 wasn’t just an operating system; it was a game-changer in tech history.
Graham McCormack, SEO Consultant, Graham SEO
Windows XP: simplicity and family fun
The best version of Windows I ever used was Windows XP—not just for its simplicity and reliability, but because it came with the free 3D Pinball Space Cadet game that my family and I used to enjoy playing together. It wasn’t just an operating system; it was part of so many shared moments. The nostalgic interface, along with features like customizable desktops and user-friendly navigation, made it feel timeless. The fun we had playing games on it as a family cemented it as my favorite version.
Alexander Hill, Founder & Director, AH Web SEO
For me, the best version of Windows hands down was any that had the OG left-hand “Start” menu, like Windows XP or Windows 7. That menu was clutch. It was clean and intuitive and got me where I needed to go without any of the fluff. Whether I was searching for a file, firing up a program, or tweaking settings, the “Start here” button was my go-to. No confusion, no extra clicks, just straight-up efficiency.
It hit that perfect sweet spot between functionality and simplicity. Even as someone who likes to push tech to its limits, I appreciated how seamless it made everything. Honestly, it was the backbone of productivity for me, it just worked, no questions asked.
Rizala Carrington, CEO, MyGrowthAgent.com
I also think Windows 7 was the best Windows for most users
I would also have to go with Windows 7. It was a leap forward in terms of system stability, user interface, and features.
After Windows Vista, which was not as bad as people make it to be, but definitely worse than Windows XP, Windows 7 had some big shoes to fill in.
And it did so admirably. I know people with fairly modern hardware who refuse to install Windows 10, with Windows 8 being out of the question on principle.
I also think Windows 7 was the peak of Windows, before Microsoft decided to play with hybrid interfaces that work well on both tablets and desktops. Big surprise: they don’t. And it was also before Windows become always online, connected to various Microsoft services, gathering your personal data like crazy.
This is probably one of the most important reasons to want to stick with Windows, if you ask me. I know it’s my biggest gripe with the direction Microsoft is heading now with Windows 11. I wish in this regard that Windows was more like Linux, minus the headaches of using the little penguin.
But what about you? Which Windows was the best for you? Join us in the comments below!
