Best Deal on Windows Vista?

**Consultant** · 12-16-08, 01:19 PM

So I'm FINALLY going to go legit and pay for a copy of Windows, legally. I've had this so-so copy of XP Pro for umpteen years and It's tiime to grow up, I guess...

My bonus at work was bigger than expected so I have some extra flow and a new OS is as good a way to spend some of it as any I can think of.

Whatcha think? Vista Ultimate-balls out Edition or something tamer like Home Basic? What version for what price would you suggest?

I have a Core 2 Duo and 2 Gigs of RAM and I may take this opportunity to double-up on the RAM at the same time, but what about the OS?

Your thoughts and opinions are much appreciated.

**QuickLightning** · 12-16-08, 01:21 PM

Look in to what you actually need. I have two copies of Home Premium myself and I've never seen any need to upgrade to ultimate. Unless you really want those extra windows games... I forget what other extras Ultimate comes with, but I'm sure you can accomplish whatever it does add on with outside software.

**DeusInnomen** · 12-16-08, 01:22 PM

This is the official comparison list for Vista: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/win...s/default.aspx

If you ask me, Home Premium is the most the average person is going to need. You get extra software with Ultimate, but it's all superfluous for the most part. Home Premium also has Media Center included with it, which surprised me to be honest as I would have anticipated that being an Ultimate edition feature only.

**Consultant** · 12-16-08, 01:25 PM

That comparison is great - Home Premium does look like it has everything I could possibly need, and like you said - other things can be accomplished with outside software.

What about shopping? Is Newegg the best place for software or do you recommend elsewhere?

Thanks!

**Consultant** · 12-16-08, 01:30 PM

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116488

What does "For system builders" mean?

I see its just a disc in a sleeve, and I build my own systems...is this what I need?

It looks cheap...just $99 compared to $222 for another version on there. this is where i get a little confused.

**DeusInnomen** · 12-16-08, 01:41 PM

"For system builders" is because you will be buying an OEM license, which comes with special rules. It is intended to be paired with a single PC and cannot be transferred to another PC. (This is a gross oversimplification of the OEM license agreement.) If you're using it for a PC you built yourself, you legally should be okay with the OEM license. Some places also require that you purchase the license along with a piece of hardware, but I don't think Newegg requires that.

The $222 version will be the full retail version without OEM limitations.

Oh, and yes, Newegg FTW.

**JBMCW2010** · 12-16-08, 01:50 PM

Originally Posted by QuickLightning

Look in to what you actually need. I have two copies of Home Premium myself and I've never seen any need to upgrade to ultimate. Unless you really want those extra windows games... I forget what other extras Ultimate comes with, but I'm sure you can accomplish whatever it does add on with outside software.

I use home premium on my laptop. comparing to ultimate...well there is nothing on there that I'd actually use/need

**mikeN** · 12-16-08, 02:00 PM

just get pro... your not going to need anything else

**draco7891** · 12-16-08, 09:06 PM

I have (64-bit) Home Premium. Got it OEM from Newegg for ~$89. Comes with everything you need, and nothing you don't.

Technically, you're not supposed to transfer the OEM license from the computer you put the initial install on. Of course, if the initial computer were to have a sudden and very extensive "upgrade", Microsoft won't bat an eye.

The OEM license also says that the system builder is responsible for tech support (if you buy the retail version, Microsoft provides support for XYZ months, etc. etc.). Completely not important if you're already building your own system (and you should be).

Draco

**Guyver** · 12-16-08, 09:41 PM

Get the 64 bit version, especially if want more RAM down the road.

EDIT:
This is what I bought and what will be going in my new PC:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116488