Windows 7 Ultimate

[Jecht0089]

Okay, so with my very first build getting pretty close to done...I really need an OS....obviously. I was thinking of going 8.1 pro...but at the same time I have always wanted Windows 7 Ultimate.

Can anyone actually elaborate on what the most solid system is for me to get?

 

[xroe]

Honestly don't get ultimate unless you plan on having more then 16 gb of memory. With that said, I would just go for what is both cheapest while meeting your needs.

 

[Luthango]

windows 7 ultimate is your best part when it comes to compatability with games and programmes most of your games and software will work under windows 8 but some will need updates and fixes to run depending on what you using before i switched to windows 8 all my software worked fine then a few of em didnt work.

 

[dgingeri]

Win7 Ultimate is really only good if you want all three of these aspects: more than 16GB of memory, joining a domain, and Media Center. If you just have either more than 16GB of memory or need to join a domain, get Pro. If you need Media Center, get Home Premium.

There were initially promises of extras that would only be available with the Ultimate edition, but those never materialized. I know, I got the Ultimate edition specifically for that.

Oh, there was one more thing that was only available on Ultimate and Enterprise: Bitlocker. Worthless. Easy to hack if you have the boot key. The only way it is useful is if the system has a TPM. There's a reason why most companies who use full drive encryption use third party solutions, and those who don't use TPMs.

 

[Jecht0089]

Thank you for the replies but I now have a question. I am looking at Windows 7 pro and It's coming up with two things:

Windows 7 Professional SP1 64bit (OEM) System Builder DVD 1 Pack by Microsoft Software: 138.98(on sale)
Microsoft Windows 7 Professional by Microsoft Software (269.99 on sale)

What's the difference? Because I'm confused on which one I should buy.

 

[LouBraun]

The OEM software is tied to the motherboard that you install it on. If you purchase a new MB you will need to obtain a new software license. There is no free tech support available from Microsoft with the OEM package. You do get updates.

The retail package includes 32 and 64 bit installation options. You get free technical support and reinstallation is possible if you ever change to a different MB.

 

[Jecht0089]

So I can buy the cheaper one with no worries?

 

[LouBraun]

If you do not intend to swap out the MB and do not need tech support, the OEM version is your best buy. I have had excellent luck with the OEM software - just need to be exactly sure of which version to purchase.