Find The Right Other OS

Windows 7 prebeta (build 6801)

Although not even in beta, Windows 7 already appears stable and full of consumer-friendly features.

Windows Vista SP1

While it's always good to install the latest code for any operating system, installing the Windows Vista SP1 update will require some casual users to spend a few hours without any visible or tangible improvements to their systems.

Ubuntu 7.04

Ubuntu is very user-friendly but not right for everyone. Oddly casual computer users and advanced users will find this operating system wonderful, while day-to-day users may rail against Ubuntu's incompatibility with certain popular software applications, such as iTunes. Still, this is a great leap forward for Linux with the mass audience.

Windows Mobile 6

Though it doesn't offer earth-shattering new features, and interface issues remain, Windows Mobile 6 brings a collection of noteworthy improvements that makes its mobile devices easier to use and equips mobile professionals with more robust productivity tools.

Windows Vista RTM

Microsoft has released its new operating system, Windows Vista, to hardware manufacturers, marking the end of the development phase and the beginning of the distribution phase. Not everything is perfect, but Microsoft expects to have all the glitches under control by the company's self-imposed January 2007 product release date.

Windows Vista RC2

We think the overall quality of this $399 Windows Vista Ultimate edition is not deserving of final release candidate status, and we expect to see at least one more interim build, or perhaps even another release candidate, soon.

Windows Vista RC1 (build 5564)

Windows Vista RC1 (build 5564) should mark the final stretch for Microsoft's new operating system, but don't be surprised if Microsoft issues one more public release candidate before making Windows Vista final.

Windows Vista beta 2

Microsoft releases the first public beta of its new Windows Vista operating system.

Apple Boot Camp (beta)

Specs: 1 user, License, Apple MacOS X 10.4.6, MacOS

Windows Vista February CTP

Microsoft's latest release focuses on enterprise deployment, but there are some new features for the home user.

Windows Vista December CTP

Windows Vista October CTP

Windows Vista September CTP

Windows XP Professional x64 edition

Only software developers and high-end workstation users will see real benefits from Windows XP Professional x64 Edition; everyone else should stick with 32-bit Windows XP instead.

Specs: 16 GB, 16 TB

Microsoft Windows Longhorn

Microsoft Virtual PC for Mac 7.0

Microsoft Virtual PC for Mac 7.0 is slow and a bit expensive, probably because it includes a Windows license, but it's cheaper than buying and maintaining a real PC--even a low-end one.

Specs: 1 PC, Complete package, Apple MacOS X 10.3, Apple MacOS X 10.2.8, 700 MHz, 7.0, CD-ROM, XGA monitor, Mouse or compatible device, 700 MHz, MacOS

Lindows 4.0

Lindows 4.0 remains the easiest Linux distribution around, but its software subscription scheme can get pricey. We'd also prefer more bundled apps.

SuSE Linux 8.2 Professional

SuSE Linux 8.2 is an extremely friendly choice for Windows users. If you're switching or dual-booting, make this distribution your first choice.

Red Hat Linux 8.0 Professional

Red Hat remains a solid Linux contender, but Windows switchers or dual-booters should stick with SuSE for easier installation.

Specs: 1 user, Complete package, 650 MB, Intel Pentium, 64 MB, 8.0, Intel Pentium

Virtual PC 5.0 for Windows

Virtual PC for Windows 5.0 boosts performance over the last version. It's the best emulator around for running multiple Windows or Linux OSs on one PC.

Specs: 1 user, Complete package, Microsoft Windows 95, Microsoft Windows 3.1, Microsoft Windows 2000 Server, Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition, Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server, Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 SP6 or later, Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0 Enterprise Edition, Intel Pentium 400 MHz, 5, CD-ROM, Intel Pentium, 400 MHz, Windows