We have been getting a few emails recently asking about the different versions of Windows Vista. There seems to be a bit of confusion about the different editions and which is most suitable to purchase.

So lets get back to basics and look at all of the different Windows Vista versions available. This should make the buying decision clearer and easier.

Home Basic
Price: $199

This is the most basic version of Windows Vista available and thats exactly what it is - basic. It is great for users that only perform very simple tasks, such as web browsing, email, viewing photos etc. This is an entry level choice and wouldn’t be recommended for anyone that wants to get more out of their PC, it also would not be optimal for laptops.

Recommended System requirements for Home Basic:

  • 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
  • 512 MB of system memory
  • 20 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space
  • Support for DirectX 9 graphics and 32 MB of graphics memory
  • DVD-ROM Drive
  • Audio output
  • Internet access


Home Premium
Price: $259

Home Premium is the next step up in the Vista range and is for users that want more than just the basics. This version will provide much more in terms of digital entertainment and productivity. It also has enhanced performance and security.  This version is also great for laptops and has excellent wireless and battery saving features.  This version of Vista will be most useful for the average home user.

Recommended System requirements for Home Premium:

  • 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
  • 1 GB of system memory
  • 40 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space

  • Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:

    • WDDM Driver
    • 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum)
    • Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware
    • 32 bits per pixel
  • DVD-ROM Drive
  • Audio output
  • Internet access


    • Business
    Price: $299

    The Vista Business version is the option for small business owners/operators. This version of Vista provides excellent security and mobility features which will help employees stay productive while out of the office. Vista Business also has improved search and organization capabilities. However, the business version does not come with Media Center, DVD Maker, Movie Maker.

    Recommended System requirements for Business:

  • 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
  • 1 GB of system memory
  • 40 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space

  • Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:

    • WDDM Driver
    • 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum)
    • Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware
    • 32 bits per pixel
  • DVD-ROM Drive
  • Audio output
  • Internet access


    • Ultimate
    Price: $319

     Windows Vista Ultimate is the flagship version. This has all the features and it will support everything from work needs right through to powerful media applications. You can do whatever you need with this version. It is very secure, has wireless capabilities, media editing, watch video, TV, listen to music, edit documents and much more. Get this version if you are a power user.

    Recommended System requirements for Ultimate:

  • 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
  • 1 GB of system memory
  • 40 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space

  • Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:

    • WDDM Driver
    • 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum)
    • Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware
    • 32 bits per pixel
  • DVD-ROM Drive
  • Audio output
  • Internet access

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