Buy desktop with Vista or buy with XP?

Question

I'm buying this desktop for my parents. They dont need a "gamers" computer but they dont need the confusion of trying to figure out a new Windows formatt. They have an old comp running window ME (horrible OS) and they Have to upgrade from their Very old and outdated hardware.

Should we invest in a new computer and chance it with Vista? Or should we buy the already proven XP?

Answer 1

It is never a good idea in my opinion to buy a new computer that is already outdated. Don't just think about today, think about the full life of the computer, they will probably have this 4-5 years. You can always upgrade to Vista later, but that will cost money, so why pay for XP now AND Vista later. The only really big problem is drivers, and that is not a huge problem. What you should do is go to the manufacturers website of any printer or scanner you have now and make sure they have Vista drivers. As for software, their are a few obscure pieces of software that won't work on Vista, but the majority of stuff will. If you want some further advice, give me an email and let me know what type of software your parents use and what they do with the computer, and I can probably give you a more specific to your situation recommendation.

Answer 2

I have been using Vista since it was in its RTM (release to manufacturing) state and the more I use it the more I like it. Yes, it took me a while to get used to it but I think that was because, number one, the user interface changed quite a bit, and two, I had been using XP for the longest time. I also think that all the negative comments about Vista are thanks to the (almost gods of) marketing at Apple. C'mon, they do know how to sell their products.... I would say get Vista. Before you know it you will know it like the back of your hand. XP is officially on its way out. The King is dead, long live the King. Windows 7? Sure, but not before the year 2011. And then there will be another swarm of bugs, and counter-marketing strategies, to gripe about. Now, once you make up your mind, install a dual boot with Ubuntu. I firmly believe that for the money (FREE!!!) this is the best operating system. Even my 8 year old boy thinks it boots faster, looks better and works better. I think that is an unbiased opinion.

Answer 3

Since your buying for your parents, stick with Windows XP because if things were to go awry, they'll have support based on about 5 years of testing, when Vista only came out around January. Dell still gives you the option of buying a computer with Windows XP install although they recommend Vista.

Answer 4

Right now, XP is not on the market and Vista is the only choice. XP is easier than Vista but Vista is brand new. Vista is a challenge for past windows users.There are also many many glitches with Vista right now.

Answer 5

I would suggest Vista now, however Vista has many disadvantages now. However, future updates (drivers, etc) might fix these problems.
1. Vista needs good hardware-(a preminium ready) computer needs 1GB of ram, 128MB Direct 9X compatible video card etc)
2. Vista runs applications slower. Even with a good system, programs like Photoshop run slower on Vista. However future updates might fix these problems.
3. Vista is uncompatible with some software (particularly anti-virus software), however their might be updates
4. Vista is uncompatible with some ATI graphics card lacks Open GL support. However, I think ATI made a driver to fix this problem,.

Answer 6

from what ive heard of VISTA, there are currently too many problems with it working with existing software that they may download, problems with printers not working, if you want them to have a trouble free pc experience, go for XP, then maybe in a year or so after all the glitches in VISTA has been sorted - then upgrade...... thats my two cents worth!

Answer 7

Go with XP. Vista's got WAY too many bugs in it.