Which version of Windows 7 should you choose?

Windows 7 will be officially released on October 22. Before deciding to withdraw your wallet to buy a 'genuine' version, find out which 'package' is right for you .

Like Windows Vista, Microsoft will also release Windows 7 operating systems under 5 different versions, each with different features and prices.

Therefore, this article will help you differentiate between the 5 versions and from there, you can choose the most appropriate version.

1. Windows 7 Starter

This is a pre-installed version on a newly released netbook and is not sold separately in the market. Considered a shortened version, Windows 7 Starter is only suitable for general users with basic functions such as web browsing, email reading or text editing .

With Windows 7 Stater, you can only activate up to 3 programs simultaneously.

2. Windows 7 Home Basic

Same as above, this version is also installed on newly released laptops, but still appears in the market in some countries like India or China. This version is suitable for people who use computers at home with essential basic features like web surfing, text editing, music listening .

The difference of Windows 7 Home Basic compared to the Starter version is not limited to the number of applications that can be activated simultaneously.

3. Windows 7 Home Premium

This version is for the average user, provides all the features needed to cater for personal and entertainment needs, such as the Aero interface (create a transparent theme effect for the desktop), Windows Media Center (media management) and the ability to burn Bluray discs .

4. Windows 7 Professional

This version is suitable for corporate offices. It has features like connecting the printer via the server, providing software to set up backup and Windows XP mode right in Windows 7.

5. Windows 7 Ultimate / Enterprise

This is the most complete version of Windows 7 operating system, combining features introduced in both Premium and Professional versions. There are also many other features and applications that you may know when you use them later. This version is suitable for professional machine users.

Ultimate version is suitable for individual users, and EnterPrise version is suitable for the community.

Based on the need to use the computer, you can choose for yourself the most suitable version. In addition, you should also consult the price list of the versions below:

- New registration for Windows 7 :
+ Windows 7 Home Premium: $ 199.99
+ Windows 7 Professional: $ 299.99
+ Windows 7 Ultimate: $ 319.99

- Upgrade from Windows Vista to Windows 7 : (Only upgraded to the version corresponding to Windows Vista in use)
+ Windows 7 Home Premium (Upgrade): $ 119.99
+ Windows 7 Professional (Upgrade): $ 199.99
+ Windows 7 Ultimate (Upgrade): $ 219.99

Chance to upgrade Windows 7 for free

From now until January 31 next year, users will have the opportunity to upgrade for free from Windows Vista to the corresponding version of Windows 7 if purchasing a new PC or Laptop with Windows Vista license installed.

Minimum configuration for using Windows 7

- CPU: 1GHz
- RAM: 1GB
- Graphics card with a minimum capacity of 128MB (to be able to use Windows Aero effect)
- A minimum of 16GB of free hard disk space
- DVDRom drive to boot and install.