Along with the Surface tablet, Microsoft released the updated version of its flagship operating system, Windows 8. Possibly the most hyped OS in recent memory, Windows 8 comes in versions available for laptop/desktop, smartphone (Windows Phone 8), and tablet (Windows RT). But unlike the Surface, Windows 8 has garnered some overall praising reviews due in part to its touch-friendly features, updated Task Manager, and simplified desktop features. Coupled with laptop, tablet, or smartphone, Windows 8 could be the preeminent operating system available today. But don’t take my word for it; let’s hear from the pros.

The Verge: “Windows 8 is a beautiful operating system and one that feels incredibly personal once it’s customized. Microsoft has a huge fight on its hands now to ensure developers create beautiful apps. Some of the best Android and iOS apps are created by organizations or individuals who have showed little interest in Microsoft. If the software maker can change people’s perceptions of Windows, from viruses to bluescreens, into one of speed and style then the apps will flow and Microsoft has a hit on its hands. If innovative developers ignore Windows 8 then Microsoft’s cash cow faces an uncertain future. Microsoft has laid down some solid foundations here, but as Ballmer has said many times before, it’s developers, developers, developers.”

TechRadar: “Undeniably, Windows 8 shines most on a touchscreen system. Even older touch notebooks that were awkward to use with touch under Windows 7 give you a great experience, and the latest tablets are fun and engaging to use.Keep an open mind, spend some time getting used to the charm bar and the Start screen. Once you do, we defy you not to be impressed by Windows 8.”

Gizmodo: “Should You Buy It? Many of you won’t have a choice. This is the operating system that will come pre-installed on your PC for the foreseeable future. And that’s a good thing! If you’re thinking about upgrading, well, that means you actually care about this thing. And if you care about this thing, you should definitely give it a try. Especially for $40 flat and $15 if you bought a PC recently.”

Wired: Pros: Touch and trackpad gestures are intuitive and make navigating the Windows 8 environment a breeze. Snapping apps is useful for multitasking. Desktop gets its own improved tools like Task Manager and File History. Windows 8 is pushing touch and all sorts of new hardware experiences, which is good for consumers. Good price for online upgrades.
Cons: Windows Store is still relatively low on apps. Ambiguity between x86 and Windows Store apps in Microsoft messaging and when pinned on Start Screen. Windows 8 will take effort to get used to, and not all users want to learn a new operating system and interface. Microsoft risks alienating legacy users. Several feature details still need polish.

PC World: “Windows 8 isn’t for everyone. If you’re mostly a desktop PC user comfortable with Windows 7, upgrading to Windows 8 is probably not worthwhile. If you’re a mobile user who needs easy access to the complete Microsoft ecosystem, including SkyDrive, Windows 8 is definitely a good fit. If your needs lie somewhere between those two extremes, give Windows 8 a close look; the cost is low, but you’ll need to learn your way around the new Start screen and make sure that your existing software runs well in the new OS.”

From what everyone’s saying, Windows 8 is the OS of the future. Microsoft addressed any problems people had with 8’s predecessors, though it doesn’t necessarily translate well to a generation that thinks Windows 7 is a lot to handle. Still I have to say, I think the oddest thing about Windows is the lack of Office 2013. Microsoft’s leading productivity suite is available through the OS in preview format only (beta) and is scheduled for a December release with February retail availability. It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to me that these two popular technologies weren’t released simultaneously.

We’ll keep you posted as more information around Windows 8 becomes apparent. In the meantime, let us know what you think. If you’re part of the Microsoft faithful, will you be making the upgrade any time soon? If you already have, what do you like about it? Post your thoughts in the comment section below.