Windows XP came in two easy-to-understand versions: One for home, and one for businesses. Microsoft confuses things in Vista by splitting it into five different versions, each with a different price tag.
Luckily, only three versions are aimed at consumers, and most people will probably choose Windows Vista Home Premium. Still, to clear up the confusion, here's a bit more on each:
Windows Vista Home Basic: Reminiscent of Windows XP Home Edition, this version leaves out Vista's fancier media features, such as DVD-movie burning, HDTV, TV recording, and other similar features. (You can still burn files to a DVD, though.) The backup program isn't automated, unfortunately, so you need to remember to back up your files. As a final blow, Microsoft left out Vista's Aero "glass" look.
Windows Vista Home Premium: This version targets people who watch TV on their PC or want to create DVDs from their camcorder footage. Plus, the backup program is automated, taking place whenever you want.
Windows Vista Business: This aims at the business market. It includes the built-in fax program, something not found in either home version.
Windows Vista Enterprise: This business market version contains even more tools, such as support for advanced computer setups.
Windows Vista Ultimate: A combination of the Home and Business versions, this version contains everything found in the home, premium and business versions. It's aimed at the wallets of hard-core PC users, such as gamers, people in the video industry, and similar people who spend their lives in front of their keyboards.
Although five versions may seem complicated, choosing the one you need isn't that difficult. Run through the following list to see what features are most important to you:
If your PC can't display or record TV shows, and you don't want to make DVDs from your camcorder footage, then save a few bucks by sticking with Windows Vista Home. It's fine for word processing, e-mail, and the Internet.
If you want to burn DVDs and/or record TV shows on your PC, then pony up the cash for Windows Vista Premium.
People who run Web servers on their PC -- and you'll know if you're doing it -- will want Windows Vista Business.
Dedicated gamers with hot-rod PCs will want Windows Vista Ultimate for its extra gaming tweaks. Plus, it has everything in the previous versions -- there's no chance of missing a feature you spot on somebody else's PC.
Computer techies who work for businesses will argue with their boss over whether they need Windows Business or Windows Enterprise versions.
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