Vista Home Basic or Premium?

[Jon Light (deceased)]

I'm nearing a total meltdown of my system----mega buggy, error messages on the hard drive and now seriously infected.
I am considering a quick order for a very basic rock-bottom Dell (Inspiron 530S). Of course I start with something rudimental, $299 w/o monitor and start upgrading (2G memory instead of 1, floppy disc just...because....and phone modem (for emergency online access) up to $399.
I see a $30 upgrade option for the Vista premium. Any idea what I get (or don't get with the basic) and if it's worth going for?

[Don Poland]

Jon,

I think this will answer your questions.
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/window ... fault.aspx

[Jon Light (deceased)]

Thanks, Don. Ideal answer. Looks like I have no need for the 'premium'.

[Jack Stoner]

DON'T go for the "S" model. The compact models are very limited in expansion - e.g. if you wanted to add a better sound card or video card (or an add on card for whatever use) you can only use the limited available "low profile" cards.

Dell, often, has deals almost as good as the current price you are seeing on the "S" model for a full Inspiron 530, for example.

Avoid the Vista Basic, it should never have been marketed and does not have the media features that Home Premium has.