Since I’ve mentioned that Windows XP is still a better operating system than Windows Vista, how do you go about buying a computer pre-installed with Windows XP?

If you can find a PC pre-installed with Windows XP at a retail store it is more likely to be an older model PC. Most of the newer models come with Vista. So why not buy a newer model, blow away Vista and install Windows XP? There are a few problems there. First you would have to find the Windows XP compatible drivers for all of the hardware on the computer, which could be a daunting task. Then, if you do manage to get Windows XP installed, you have just voided your warranty!

One possible option is to buy a PC with Vista Business and Vista Ultimate Edition installed and downgrade, but that is not guaranteed:
According to Ina Fried in an article “The XP alternative for Vista PCs” on CNET News.com:
“Under Microsoft’s licensing terms for Vista, buyers of Vista Business and Vista Ultimate Edition have always had the right to downgrade to XP, but in practice this could be challenging.” and “Microsoft noted in a statement that neither it nor the PC makers are obligated to supply earlier versions to end users under the end user licensing terms.”

There is hope though. PC makers like Dell and Lenovo still offer PCs with Windows XP installed. On Dell.com I was able to configure a Dell Inspiron 530 with Windows XP Professional (of course it costs a little extra!), and on Lenovo’s website I configured a Lenovo ThinkCentre A55 with Windows XP Professional. There was also a mention that Lenovo would also supply buyers of PCs with Vista Business and Vista Ultimate Edition a Windows XP restore disc at an extra cost.

Posted on March 16th, 2008 by mervyn