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Windows Vista: FAQ and Buying guide.

January 31st, 2007

On January 30th, Windows Vista was released to the general public.
Here’s a quick Vista FAQ from me:

Is Vista for you?
It depends. Given the right hardware (i.e. a Core 2 duo, 2GB ram and the latest graphics), Vista is fast. But then again, so is anything else. Also see my review of Vista here.

If you depend on Windows software, then maybe Vista is the way to go, from a future perspective - i.e. if you want to continue to run Windows software, expect most of this software to require Vista somewhere along the line.

So, if you are buying a new PC, and want a Microsoft OS, then maybe Vista is for you.

Otherwise, I recommend you consider options such as Ubuntu

How fast is Vista with current software?
THG has a good review with detailed benchmarks of most applications on Vista.

How cool is Vista?

Well, Vista can run with a new interface (Aero) which enables the desktop to function in 3d (many cool effects, vector icons etc). If you are into 3D desktops, you should also check out Beryl’s desktop here, which happens to be free - it works with many Linux distro’s)

Which Vista is for you?

Vista comes in many different versions. You can compare them here. I’d recommend the cheapest version you can find which includes Aero.

What’s the difference between OEM and Retail version?
Retail version:
FOR: Includues more support, has a nice shiny box, Can be transfered from PC to PC
AGAINST: Costs a lot more.

OEM version
FOR: Same thing without the shiny box, costs a lot less.
AGAINST: Lives and dies with your PC (Can’t transfer to another PC)
Note: You CAN do hardware upgrades to your PC though (except the motherboard though)

Which do you recommend?
I’d say go for home premium OEM: It includes Aero, and most of the stuff you need, and is a bargain at around $125 incl shipping Zipzoomfly have it a bit cheaper, but I prefer newegg.

Purchasing Vista

I suggest you import it direct from US. I recommend Newegg as I reglarly purchase from them, and they have never let me down. I do not recommend purchasing it locally from Microsoft or an agent. Vista has NOT been released locally, it will be released sometime in FEB according to Microsoft chief evangelist who I spoke to recently.

Entry Filed under: Microsoft, Vista