Which OS to upgrade to Win 7?

[jmjcp1]

My current machine is running XP Home Edition (just because) however I have Vista from doing that "let MS spy on me" deal awhile back.

I have really been considering upgrading, just not sure if I should upgrade my current XP:HE or install Vista and Upgrade that computer?

I do plan on building a computer later in the year (if I still have a job) so I would want Win 7 on that machine... so not sure if I would want to keep xp just xp and install vista as 64bit and then upgrade to W7?

You can tell I need help and probably need to edit with more info?

Sorry if I haven't provided enough info for help! I'll check back tonight and add current PC specs if it helps.

 

[Gooberlx2]

Personally, I'd have Vista on one and W7 on the other. Actually...I'd probably put Win7 on both simply because there are certain features that benefit all systems having Win7 (so far homegroup and internet media streaming).

If you don't build an new machine, then it doesn't matter. I would clean install Win7 when you upgrade either way.

 

[WildW]

Contrary to popular understanding, performing an upgrade install over an old Windows install does not nuke the old serial key. It may be contrary to the EULA of one or both copies of Windows, but you can for instance upgrade an XP machine to Vista with an upgrade version and then install the XP on another machine. Heck, you can clean install an upgrade version of Vista on its own.

That is to say, it will install, it will activate over the internet, it will pass any Genuine Advantage type test. Old keys don't die, and so long as you leave it 3 months between activations you can move Windows keys between any hardware, OEM version or not.

 

[alkalinetaupehat]

Originally posted by: WildW
Contrary to popular understanding, performing an upgrade install over an old Windows install does not nuke the old serial key. It may be contrary to the EULA of one or both copies of Windows, but you can for instance upgrade an XP machine to Vista with an upgrade version and then install the XP on another machine. Heck, you can clean install an upgrade version of Vista on its own.

That is to say, it will install, it will activate over the internet, it will pass any Genuine Advantage type test. Old keys don't die, and so long as you leave it 3 months between activations you can move Windows keys between any hardware, OEM version or not.

That right there is full of win.

 

[alkalinetaupehat]

Since XP has been EOL'd by Microsoft, I would maximize the value of it and use XP as the OS to upgrade, as then you'll have two OS which recieve updates and support from Microsoft WHILE you save money on the upgrade.

 

[dr150]

Does "XP COMPATIBILITY" of the $99 version give you benefits for gaming?

I hear it's a stripped down version of XP (no Directx) made specifically for some proprietary corporate software.....