Can someone tell me specifically what the pros and cons of vista are compared to microsoft xp?

Question

my main fear is that in a few years some game will come out for which u need vista and ill have to buy a new pc, and i want the one i plan to buy to last for a long time. so far people tell me vista slows down gaming. Please be specific. What exactly is the impact of vista on world of warcraft? or battlefield 2141 or whatever that game is called.

Answer 1

Microsoft is supporting (non technical) XP for a few more years for they know we are not all going to run out and buy new PCs. With that said:

MS Vista – Pros and Cons
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=272182

AIM
http://www.aim.com/help_faq/starting_out/getstarted.adp?aolp=

Examine the various versions of Vista
Source: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/editions/default.mspx

Can your computer be upgraded to Vista?

Whether your PC can be updated depends on when you purchased your computer.
Here are some general rules of thumb to get you started.
If your PC was purchased between Oct. 26, 2006 and Mar. 15, 2007 then you are eligible for the FREE Express Upgrade to Windows Vista.**
If your PC isn't "Windows Vista Capable*" use the Microsoft Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor to get a recommendation for the edition of Windows Vista that is right for you.
If your PC is more than 1 year old - check first with the Microsoft Windows Vista Advisor Tool.
The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor will help you to determine if your Windows XP-based PC can run Windows Vista.

Microsoft Windows Vista Advisor Tool
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/buyorupgrade/upgradeadvisor.mspx