Executive Summary:
Windows 7 public beta offers testers the chance to gauge compatibility and performance; plus, we help you figure out which Windows 7 edition is which. |
Windows 7 Public Beta
Pros: It's the highest-quality Windows beta ever released. Really.
Cons: Microsoft isn't interested in feedback.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommendation: Microsoft can be proud that the Windows 7 beta—which it describes as "API complete"—is nearly as usable as a final release. On the flip side, Microsoft isn't going to change Windows 7 just because testers dislike certain things—it’s focused more on bug testing. But if you’re interested in testing compatibility and performance, here’s your chance. You'll be pleasantly surprised.
Contact: Microsoft• 800-426-9400
Discussion: Full review of Windows 7 Public Beta
Windows 7 Product Editions
Pros: Simpler than Windows Vista product lineup.
Cons: Still too many product editions.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Recommendation: Most people will choose between the Home Premium and Professional editions. Windows 7 will also come in these editions: Starter, Home Basic, Enterprise, Ultimate (which is essentially Enterprise minus the SA requirements), and an unnamed Europe N edition. Unlike with Vista, each product edition is a superset of the one before that.
Contact: Microsoft• 800-426-9400
Discussion: More about Windows 7