Hello,
I am considering a new machine and can get it with XP installed, but want to
try Windows 7. I have heard good reports about it. Is anyone using it and
can comment about it?
I've been using the released version since it first came out, and the
Release Candidate before that. I like it very much. As with almost all
versions of Windows, it is better than its predecessors.
Here are my views; three points below:
1. If you were asking about upgrading, I would give you my standard
answer, as follows:
A change of operating system should be driven by need, not just
because there is a new version available. Are you having a problem
with Windows XP that you expect Windows 7 to solve? Do you have or
expect to get new hardware or software that is supported in Windows 7,
but not in XP? Is there some new feature in Windows 7 that you need or
yearn for? Does your job require you have skills in Windows 7? Are you
a computer hobbyist who enjoys playing with whatever is newest?
If the answer to one or more of those questions is yes (and your
hardware is adequate for Windows 7), then you should get Windows 7.
Otherwise most people should stick with what they have. There is
*always* a learning curve and a potential for problems when you take a
step as big as this one, regardless of how wonderful whatever you're
contemplating moving to is. Sooner or later you'll have to upgrade (to
Windows 7 or its successor) because you'll want support for hardware
or software that you can't get in XP, but don't rush it.
I say all the above despite the fact that I'm a big Windows 7 fan. I
think it's the best and most stable of all versions of Windows.
2. But since you are talking about getting a new computer, I strongly
recommend getting it with Windows 7. It hardly ever makes sense to
take a step backward by getting a new computer with an old version of
an operating system.
3. Be aware that as with any new operating system, there are
differences from what you are accustomed to. Differences will take you
some time to get accustomed to, and for many people differences cause
them frustration. So be prepared for some initial frustration, but
give yourself enough time to adapt to the differences, rather than
throwing about the new Windows 7 because you haven't yet learned
enough about it.