Windows XP to Windows 7

[VectraMan]

Using both now and I've got to say W7 is far better in every way, it just feels far more intuitive and less niggily than XP or Vista. If the intention was to make the whole experience slicker and more user friendly they've done a good job.

WHS. Once I got used to using the eval RC version, I didn't want to go back. I ended up buying copies to upgrade both my XP desktop and Vista laptop. And it really is faster, but more significantly multitasks much better. And it's more stable; I've never once had that OS still works but explorer and task manager won't respond debugging problem that I had twice today with XP at client co and twice had to hard boot.

Having said that, for a "normal" person (he's obviously not an IT geek or he wouldn't be asking), it makes more sense to buy it with a new PC/laptop.

[Sysman]

If it's an old PC, wait to get a new one with W7... or get a ultra-cheap desktop with no monitor, keyboard, etc for £250 with it installed.

If the PC is OK, then I'd upgrade, W7 is pretty good (although XP is good too). Can you upgrade to the 64-bit version though, or do you have to wipe the disk?

I recently got a cheap PC with W7 Home Premium thrown in. Looking at the full retail prices of Windows 7 in my local department store, I could spend as much on Windows itself as I paid for the complete box. The picture is somewhat different if I look at a discount outlet.

1. buying a system with Windows included can be a good deal
2. if going for an upgrade to Windows, watch out where you shop; consider going to 1

[vetran]

p4 dual thread 3gb machine running win7 and MCE plus extenders fine. Even plays HDTV.

I actually paid for an upgrade to win7. Normally I just take what comes with the PC.