In this article, we will only consider the current Windows versions as of 2020, which are suitable for weak, low-performance computers, i.e., those with 1-2 GB of RAM and CPUs running at 1-2 GHz.
1) Windows 7 Home Basic and Windows 7 Home Premium
Windows 7 is still relevant, although official support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. However, all current browsers, many libraries, and drivers still work with Windows 7, which means broad support for various specialized software and hardware. System activation also proceeds with official product keys if you have them, as the end of support only means the cessation of new updates, which will be dated 2020 and beyond. All updates that were available before January 14, 2020, can be downloaded through the standard "Windows Update Center" menu.
Minimum Recommended System Requirements:
Processor: 1 GHz
RAM: 1 GB
Recommended hard disk space: 16 GB, but can also fit on a 10 GB hard disk.
Download: Windows 7 Home Premium and Windows 7 Home Basic
2) Windows 8.1 Embedded, or Windows 8.1 Pro
The difference between the Embedded and Pro versions is that Embedded is more trimmed down; initially, it was intended for use in terminals, cash registers, etc.
Advantages of working on Windows 8.1:
It is still supported, and current updates are released for it. Support will continue until January 10, 2023.
Better compatibility with applications tailored for Windows 10.
In our subjective view, the system is much more relevant for everyday use than Windows 7, especially when used on laptops from around 2009-2014, due to optimization and a more extensive stack of available drivers.
Minimum Recommended System Requirements:
Processor: 1 GHz
RAM: 1 GB
Hard disk space: 16 GB
Download: Windows 8.1 Pro
3) Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC
Yes, this may seem like a rather unexpected point to you, but it is indeed true, but only relevant for Windows 10 editions - Enterprise. The features of this OS include the official removal of many built-in apps, which frees up a significant amount of occupied RAM and PC resources in general.
Briefly, what is removed:
App Store and all UWP built-in apps, except for the "Settings" menu.
Built-in Edge browser.
Cortana assistant.
In general, it's still Windows 10, with other differences of this version you can find on the next page. The only thing to note is the long-term service until 2029, instead of the standard 2 years.
Minimum Recommended System Requirements:
Processor: 1 GHz
RAM: 1 GB for 32-bit and 2 GB for 64-bit
Hard disk space: 16 GB for 32-bit and 20 GB for 64-bit
Download: Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019
