Should You Upgrade to Windows 8?

Q:

Would you recommend upgrading a desktop that currently operates on Vista to Windows 8?

A:

I don’t recommend upgrading a computer to Windows 8 that’s more than a year or two old, especially if you intend to keep your data files and programs. If this PC is still running Vista, which came out six years ago, it’s probably too old to assure a trouble-free, satisfying upgrade to Windows 8. You can check by downloading and running Microsoft’s free Upgrade Assistant, from tinyurl.com/atwewxe. I also recommend you search through the support section of your PC maker’s website to see if the company supports the upgrade.

Q:

My PC with XP just died. I just bought an iPad for portability so I don’t see why I need a laptop. I gave one away because I didn’t like the feel of it. But I still use Office — particularly Publisher. Should I buy a Windows 8 laptop with a touch monitor or a desktop?

A:

It sounds to me like you’re not a laptop fan, and don’t feel you need one for portability. So I suggest you consider one of the new Windows 8 all-in-one touchscreen desktop computers.

Q:

Is the capacity of the iPad infinite? I’ve had mine three years and regularly delete emails. Is there a capacity limit and if so, how should it be dealt with?

A:

The iPad has finite storage. For some of its functions, like email and the calendar, you can control how much data it stores by going into settings and specifying how many messages it should show from each account, or how far back in time its calendar should sync with the calendar service it uses.

Otherwise, if you begin to run up against the device’s capacity, you’ll have to delete some apps or media or other content. You can check how much capacity you have available by going to Settings, General and then clicking on About.

Email your technology questions to Walt at mossberg@wsj.com.