Buying the New Versions of Windows 7

Microsoft has unveiled the official prices of the different versions of its latest operating system, Windows 7, the successor to Windows XP and the controversial Windows Vista. Not only is the new OS superior to both; it has a multitude of improvements and brand new features that offer a more focused and streamlined performance, compatible with all applications and hardware that worked with the previous operating systems. The product is expected to hit retail stores on October, 22^nd, 2009.

How Much Will Windows 7 Cost?

Microsoft has given customers the ability to buy different versions of the OS; Windows 7 Home Premium (priced at $199), Windows 7 Professional ($299), and Windows 7 Ultimate ($319). And don't be worried if you already own a computer with an old OS version installed, such as XP or Vista. Microsoft has allowed customers to upgrade directly to the full version of Windows 7 for a substantially lower price. To upgrade from XP or Vista (XP users need not pay extra), it costs $119 for Home Premium, $199 for Professional, and $219 for Ultimate.

Despite the differing perspectives that PC users have on which system is truly the best in the market, there has been much hype about how well this new system will perform. It is encouraging to know that Microsoft has chosen a price about 10% less than what was charged for the respective versions of Windows Vista in January 2007. This will be a much better system and at a lower price, a great move during the current recession and a break from the trend of increasing prices of new technology.

And suppose you buy a Vista-based PC as of June 26^th, 2009. You will be eligible to upgrade to Windows 7 on that system (the Windows 7 Upgrade Option program) for little or no cost when the product hits the market on October, 22^nd.

Windows 7 Beta - Test Out the New OS Now

The Windows 7 Beta has been out for quite some time, giving people the chance to experience its new features without any cost and before the actual release. Microsoft has now released the Windows 7 Release Candidate Customer Review (RC) program. You can download it here, from the official web site. Most importantly, you can get a Product Key if you already downloaded the RC or if you have an installation disc. After you start the download process (after selecting the version and language on the download page), enter your Windows Live ID and answer the registration questions (only a few). You will then receive the Product Key required to activate the RC.

Here's what you need to know. This is a pre-release and there's no big rush (unlimited Product Keys). Backup your PC's hard drive and data before installing it. Make sure your system is properly updated and keep up with the latest news if you need more technical information. And please note that the RC will expire on June 1st, 2010. Starting on March 1st, 2010, your PC will shut down every 2 hours. To avoid this, you have to install a non-expired version of Windows before March 1st, 2010. If you are unsure how to do this, click here to learn how.

The New Features of Windows 7

Well, there are too many to name. It is nearing the end of this decade and customers just need a more user-centric OS that is compact, incredibly smooth in performance, and has full compatibility. Click here to see all the top features of Windows 7. Performance tests have been widely done by professionals and computer enthusiasts alike, in news articles and in message boards. The beta version itself exceeds both XP and Vista. Microsoft has learned well in the last two years and one of the major goals in technology is to bring together the best of both worlds.

Windows 7 is better, faster, more compatible, and it's cheaper than its predecessor two years ago, in the market that we have today. Perhaps this time, Microsoft won't disappoint.