Is it worth it to fork out $200 to $500 dollars for a full version of Windows Vista? What version is best for you?
Windows Vista Versions
Windows Vista comes in several different versions. Based on your budget, and how good your computer is, Microsoft recommends one of these to you. They are as follows, with descriptions:
- Windows Vista Home Basic - This is the cheapest of the versions in the Vista line. However, it is also the most striped down. You don't get Aero, or any of the other new cool features. It is almost like having Windows XP Home for a higher price. If you don't have enough money for Home Premium or above, don't even bother getting Vista, because Basic is not even worth it.
- Windows Vista Home Premium - This version is the best choice for the home user. It comes with Media Center and Aero. If you are looking into getting Vista for your home, then this is your best choice.
- Windows Vista Business - This version of Windows is mainly for small to medium sized businesses. It does not have Media Center, however, it does have Aero (I don't see why it has Aero, because in my opinion, that will just distract employees from doing there jobs because they will be playing with the ALT-TAB Window Tilt feature all the time). If buying for a business, this is your best choice. Home users should just ignore that this edition even exists.
- Windows Vista Ultimate - This edition has all the features of both the Business edition and Home Premium Editions. I like to call it an operating system on steroids, because that is what it seems like. You should only buy this edition if you have a lot of money to spend, and a very high end computer that will be used for both personal and business uses.
Cost? Why should I switch from Windows XP?
Yes, the cost is quite high, and I feel your pain. Having bough Windows Vista Ultimate, I forked out a lot of money for my new computer (which I built). If you are just using your computer for Email, or other general uses, you don't need to switch to Vista, because Windows XP has what you need. However, if you are concerned about your computers security, I do suggest switching to the more secure Vista. Also, if you use your computer for either Business, Video Games, or you are online a lot, you should switch to Vista. Vista is more secure for the online stuff you do, as well as for business uses, and eventually, most PC games will be released for Vista and not support XP.
Full Install Vs. Upgrade Version
If you do decide to get Windows Vista, I suggest buying the Full Install version over the Upgrade Version. The Upgrade Version has more problems after install. As well, never use the download and install option on the website for Windows Vista. This is the upgrade version and causes even more problems then the DVD Upgrade Version.
