Windows 8 represents a dramatic change for Microsoft’s venerable operating system: It’s designed to work not just with keyboard and mouse but also with a touch screen.

But many users who upgrade to the new operating system will not be running Windows 8 on a touch screen. They’ll be relying on older computers that still operate the old-fashioned way, with keyboard and mouse controls. Then there are tablet users, users who run Windows 8 only on tablets are also not getting the full Windows 8 experience.

There are just some functions that run better with mouse and keyboard control. That doesn’t mean, though, that users who rely either on tablets or traditional computers won’t be able to take advantage of the many features built into the new operating system. They can. They just need to purchase the right peripherals. PC Magazine recently ran a story outlining just what these peripherals are.

Microsoft Wedge mobile keyboard

PC Magazine points out that the Microsoft Wedge isn’t just a portable keyboard. It’s also an essential tool to allow tablet users to get the most of the Windows 8 experience. For one thing, the keyboard offers a better typing experience than your tablet’s onscreen keyboard. Secondly, Windows 8 features are included in the keypad. Even the cover can become a tablet stand, allowing you to approximate the desktop experience.

Logitech T650 Wireless Rechargeable Touchpad

Want to access all those touch-screen features included in Windows 8 without having to buy a tablet or other touch-screen device? Try the Logitech T650 Wireless Rechargeable Touchpad. The product works so well that the editors at PC Mag have made it their top choice for Windows 8 computer mice.

Kingston DataTraveler Workspace

It looks like a USB flash drive, but the Kingston DataTraveler Workspace actually contains Windows To Go, a portable and bootable version of Windows 8. This means that you can bring the Windows 8 operating system—or at least the portable version of it—to the PC of your choice. Best news? It has a reputation for being safe and secure.

Read more at PC Magazine:http://kbit.co/windows-peripherals