computer ?, operating systems Options

[96bluevert]

ok, so some of you know I am building my own computer and at this time I am gathering all the parts that I need. I will have 4gb RAM (with the intent to expand later), so I know I will want to go with a 64-bit OS. Although I can't decide between Windows XP Pro and Windows Vista. I am used to XP, since it has been on my last few computers, although I have heard that Pro has problems with some older software. I've been reading up online about the differences and which would be a better choice, but it hasn't got me anywhere since half the reviews I read say Vista is the way to go, and the other half say XP is the better O/S to get. I don't want to spend $100+ on an Operating system, just to find out I should have gotten the other one .

so, any advice or experiences you guys have had with these two would be helpful.

also, I am assuming that I will want to get the software that is meant for "system builders"...? There are just way too many options on newegg with a very wide variety in price

[96bluevert]

Yeah, from what I've heard Windows 7 won't be much different from Vista, but by the time it comes out hopefully it is improved upon quite a bit and might actually be a pretty good OS. We'll have to see about that one though. It doesn't come out for over a year, so I think Microsoft can make some adjustments by then to make it something that'll take people away from XP and Vista. I just hate the fact that one company is making two different OS's that are pretty much competing. Makes decisions harder ...On the plus side, it also gives us choices if we don't like one of the two options.