Switching off Windows 11 S-mode

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the implications of switching off Windows 11 S-mode on laptops, particularly regarding performance and usability. Participants explore the necessity of S-mode for their app usage and consider the differences between laptops with and without S-mode.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the downside of switching off S-mode, expressing concerns about performance and functionality after the switch.
  • Another participant suggests that the physical specifications of laptops may differ between models, which could influence the decision to switch off S-mode.
  • There is a mention that the Microsoft Store includes a variety of apps beyond those made by Microsoft, drawing a parallel to app stores on other platforms.
  • A participant confirms that they ordered a more expensive unit, implying a preference for potentially better specifications and functionality.
  • LibreOffice is noted to be available in the Microsoft Store, with one participant expressing familiarity with it as their preferred application.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and implications of S-mode, with some questioning its value while others consider the specifications of different laptop models. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the performance impact of switching off S-mode.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not provide detailed comparisons of specifications or performance metrics, leaving some assumptions about hardware capabilities unaddressed.

Doc Al
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TL;DR
Is there any downside to switching off Win 11 S-mode?
My question: Is there any downside to switching off Win 11 S-mode?

I'm looking for a new, not too expensive, Windows laptop. It seems like most of the laptops have Windows 11 S-mode installed. With S-mode, apps not from the MS store cannot be used, making such a laptop useless for me. (I don't use many MS apps, such as Office or Edge. I use downloaded apps for all of that and more.)

I went into a store yesterday to see what they had and the "tech" guy was trying to convince me that while S-mode can be switched off, he doesn't advise doing that as the PC won't work properly. I don't know if he's speaking truth or just trying to upsell me something.

So my question: If I get a laptop with S-mode and switch it off, which I think replaces it with Win 11 Home, is there any issue with performance? Will it be just as if Win 11 Home had been there in the first place? (Or should I just spend more money to get one without S-mode?)
 
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Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.

BTW, the MS app store has more than just "Microsoft brand" apps. These are just ones that have MS stamp of approval. Kind of like downloading apps to yor iphone from Apple's store. They are not made by Apple.
 
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scottdave said:
Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.
Yes, I'm sure the more expensive ones have better specs. I did end up ordering a more expensive unit. (Hopefully it will not arrive with S-mode installed!) More than I needed, but it won't go to waste.
 
scottdave said:
Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.

BTW, the MS app store has more than just "Microsoft brand" apps. These are just ones that have MS stamp of approval. Kind of like downloading apps to yor iphone from Apple's store. They are not made by Apple.
LibreOffice is in the Microsoft Store. I have not tried it in Windows 11.
 
FactChecker said:
LibreOffice is in the Microsoft Store.
Good to know. (That's what I generally use.)
 

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