Windows 7... which is best for GAMING?

M

map-08

New Member
Hi, I have built a new system with am3 mobo, phenom x4 955, 4gb ddr3 (soon to be 8gb) and gtx260 (soon to be gtx460 when I win the lottery :P).

I just need to know which version of windows 7 to purchase, the price is not a problem I just want the best version for gaming as it is mainly a rig for playing games on but also web browsing and en/decoding n burning movies.

I have been told it has to be x64 but which version? ie, professional, ultimate etc etc.

Any help much appreciated!
Thanks in advance, Mat.
 
Home Premium is just fine for a standard user. If you want the extra bells and whistles of XP mode, domains, dynamic discs, go with pro. (Home Premium support ends in 2015, whereas Pro has support until 2020)
 
Ok thanks, so would you say professional is better than ultimate for gaming.

Also, with the XP compatibility thingy does it automatically recognize/support xp software or do you have to do anything special.

Thanks for your help, Mat.
 
Ultimate is not necessary unless you need to work in different language packs.

XP Mode is simply a virtual machine that runs inside Windows 7. Most software is compatible with Windows 7 so there isn't much need for XP mode unless you're running real old software. All you do is download the installer and Microsoft Virtual PC and it runs.
 
Home Premium 64 bit will work just fine for what you need from your system. Unless you think you will need the virtual machine XP support from Windows 7 Pro or the support until 2020. I have Win 7 Pro 64 bit and i have not used XP mode as i have another hard drive in my system with XP on it in dual boot.
 
Premium/Professional/Ultimate 64 bit will all perform the same with games.

Depends on what you want included with the OS and what you want to spend on it.
 
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If you are in the US and a college student, you can get professional for only $30. Just search for student on microsoft.com.
 
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