Windows Vista
January 10th, 2007 by Stephen
In his “Joel on Software” blog, Joel Spolsky writes a good article on why bloggers should not accept gifts from companies trying to get their products advertised. Buried in the midst of the article is his review of Windows Vista, based on his own tests:
1. Do not, under any circumstances, consider upgrading an XP system to Vista… even if it’s fairly new and even if it’s Vista Supremo Premium Ultra-Capable.
2. When you get a new computer, if it comes with Vista pre-installed, that’s when you’ll upgrade.
3. Don’t buy a new computer now just to get Vista. If your current system meets your needs, stick with it until you really need a new system. Vista is not reason enough for a new PC.
4. Need more details? Read Paul Thurrott’s review.
He doesn’t mention the treacherous computing issue, which ought to cause everyone to turn down Vista (but let’s face it, it won’t, because most people have no idea what rights they are signing away each time they upgrade their Windoze eye candy). But from someone who has no anti-microsoft agenda, Joel Spolsky’s comments are very reasonable. If you want to use your computer to do real stuff, don’t upgrade to Vista.
I have different reasons for not upgrading to Vista. I have seen some of the betas thanks to an MS trainer where I work. I was ready to jump on board (a lot thanks to the new “pretty-ness”) however when I read and got to thinking about just how much driver incompatibility and service packs that come out whenever a new Windows OS comes out, I think I’ll stay with XP for now.