[bowers]

My nine year old HP Pavilion (with XP) is getting tired and can't be updated anymore, so it looks like I'll be computer shopping before long. XP was very user-friendly and I'm wondering which of the newer Windows versions would be comparable. I've also heard I can't use C-Display with the newer versions. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Cheers, Bowers

[deni]

When I recently bought a new computer, I decided to stay with Windows XP.   It's been around for along time, all the bugs are tweaked out and it runs smoothly.

To my knowledge all later versions of Windows have operating problems.   Why is Windows 8 being released so soon after Windows 7?

Most independent stores in my area have gone back to primarily offering the popular Windows XP with their new computer sales.  The larger franchise stores are still only offering the very latest version available and the "new is always better" sales pitch.

I would think that you only need to look at a later version if it offers features you really need that are not available with Windows XP.

[narfstar]

I just got a laptop and would have stayed with XP but it came with 7. No problems so far but I have not done much

[paw broon]

Our relatively new laptop came with Windows 7 and it is taking a while to get to grips with it.  It does support CDisplay and Gonvisor.  Despite all the hype, 7 isn't as user friendly as XP, imo, and despite having read the help bits, I still can't figure out a few things but I really am slow with techy stuff.  Our old pc has XP and, although slowing down through age and a weak processor, once I shovel in some coal and pull a few levers, it's dead easy to use.

[srca1941]

From what I've read, Windows 7 Professional has an "XP Mode" that lets a copy of XP run inside 7. That should take care of compatibility issues. (Of course I don't have it, so I can't say how well it works...)

-Eric

[alfje]

Whatever you choose, perhaps better not start with Vista anymore.
MS will only support it until  April 10, 2012, so that's only about 6 months left.
However: The extended Version (for commercial customers of MS) will be supported 5 years longer.

Support means in this case: automatic fixes, updates or online technical assistance.

Here in short the 'lifespan' of some versions, perhaps it will help you decide:
MS will support XP until April 8th, 2014.. the support for younger MS Vista version will already stop April 10, 2012.. WIN 7 will be supported until January 13,2015 (the business editions Windows 7 Pro/Enterprise) will get extended support until January 14,2020