Boot camp: Which version of Windows

[Tanvir]

Hi

After my other thread and a bit more research I have decided that Boot camp will suit my needs the best.

My next question, which Version of Windows will work the best on the MBA. I know 100% that it won't be Vista. But cant decide between Win XP or Win 7.

Your expert advice is much appreciated.

Many thanks

Tan

 

[pintsizemacman]

id get a hefty install of xp. i have windows 7 on mine and its a little to much like vista unless u like it that way.

 

[PhelpsiPhan]

I love W7 but may run a bit hot on the MacBook Air, i would prolly recommend getting XP as it will run a bit cooler and will run faster as it is not as resource hungry

 

[sparkie1984]

Maybe a copy of xp lite? Like what they put on netbooks etc.

Not sure if there's a win 7 version

 

[Scottsdale]

I would say Windows 7 is the way to go. I don't believe you would have any problems. XP has too many security problems and loopholes. Stick with the latest and best Microsoft offering ever.

In my opinion, it's just as good as OS X. I hope it drives more innovation and leadership with Apple's next OS release. In addition, I have been experiencing rock solid stability with Windows 7. I would actually bet my Windows 7 use has been more stable than OS X.

If you're worried about file size of Windows 7, maybe you shouldn't install it on your MBA? Or, you could upgrade to a larger drive. There should be a third-party provider with a 256 GB SSD out before Christmas that will work in the MBA.

 

[Tanvir]

HI

Thanks for the replies, a light version of XP sounds interesting.

The size of the file is a concern, but I do need to install it on the air for now. In a few months Office 2011 will allow me to run Macros so that will be one less thing that I need Windows for and if I can resolve my soft phone issue I will be able to remove Windows all together.

Regards

Tan

 

[chrisbrockhurst]

Hi

After my other thread and a bit more research I have decided that Boot camp will suit my needs the best.

My next question, which Version of Windows will work the best on the MBA. I know 100% that it won't be Vista. But cant decide between Win XP or Win 7.

Your expert advice is much appreciated.

Many thanks

Tan

Windows 7 ran perfectly on mine, no issues at all, actually surprised at how well it worked. I'd def go for 7

 

[Zband]

windows xp lite = windows fundamentals for legacy pc's

Windows FLP is a fully functional, but stripped down version of XP. Best part is that it is fully supported my MS and is updated with DX.

runs fine on 96MB of RAM and was designed for 233Mhz computers.

***Sorry I reread the OP and the I would agree Win7 (OEM) would be the best choice on bootcamp, however, I stand by my statement that under Parallels or VMWare Windows FLP with its low resource requirement will run circles around W7!

 

[SidBala]

Windows 7 hands down.

Windows XP? That is almost 10 years old now. It is a dinosaur.

 

[Scottsdale]

Windows 7 hands down.

Windows XP? That is almost 10 years old now. It is a dinosaur.

I agree. I don't understand why anyone would want XP over 7. The capabilities of 7 could even be ignored, but it's more stable and secure too. I definitely wouldn't fool around with third-party chopped versions of XP "lite" if I wanted to assure myself of a working Windows OS.

People always complain about Microsoft but then they fool around with stolen and pirated software, chopped OS versions, and crap hardware. The truth is Windows 7 is more stable than OS X Snow Leopard on my MBA. I would stay away from anything other than 7.

 

[PhelpsiPhan]

Windows 7 hands down.

Windows XP? That is almost 10 years old now. It is a dinosaur.

I also agree that W7 Rocks my socks off

 

[agaskew]

TinyXP FTW. Allegedly.

 

[BBB180]

Windows 7 for sure! It truly is the best thing MS has ever done. XP isn't even in the same league.

 

[foltzie]

I disagree in one regard. My XP install disc doesnt have WGA bolted on so I can move the install from machines as I am wont to do and boot from Parallels without issue from a license revocation.

Note: I'm not pirating my copy of XP, it is a SP3 slipstreamed copy of my college retail copy of XP.

I may consider Windows 7, but I cannot justify anything over $50 just to boot VPN, and the handful of other programs I use over on Windows.

 

[Scottsdale]

I disagree in one regard. My XP install disc doesnt have WGA bolted on so I can move the install from machines as I am wont to do and boot from Parallels without issue from a license revocation.

Note: I'm not pirating my copy of XP, it is a SP3 slipstreamed copy of my college retail copy of XP.

I may consider Windows 7, but I cannot justify anything over $50 just to boot VPN, and the handful of other programs I use over on Windows.

BINGO... that's where STUDENTS don't do their homework. Educational licensing for a Windows 7 PRO copy is $29. Search for it on Google and you will find it.

Since I teach, I get discounted hardware and educational licensing. Take advantage of the opportunity if it's available to you.