Why you should thank Microsoft for selling six editions of Windows 7

iulie 27 22:20 2009

Why you should thank Microsoft for selling six editions of Windows 7 It took a while, but Microsoft finally got it right when it came to defining the right way to sell Windows 7 in multiple editions. They eliminated customer confusion by making sure that each edition contained all the features of the edition below it (Professional has all of Home Premium’s features plus more.) In addition, the Windows Anytime Upgrade program will relieve pressure to buy a higher edition than needed in fear of never being able to upgrade without paying for an entire operating system.

In general, the media has learned to respect these improvements by steering clear of the “too many editions” mantra. However, Microsoft still faces criticism for not selling only a single edition of Windows, especially when compared to Apple. What many are not seeing is how big of a favor Microsoft is doing to you as a customer by having six editions of Windows 7. First, let’s talk about what they’ve done differently to help customers choose better.

Most people will be picking between Home Premium and Professional

Despite the six editions, Microsoft has made it clear this time that they are aiming to focus on pushing out Home Premium and Professional to the mass majority of consumers in retail. This means they are putting in efforts to ensure that marketing is focused on those two SKUs alone. They’ve listened to the criticism received with Vista and are now responding. Customers aren’t even given the option to purchase Starter and Enterprise at retail as well. Ultimate is only an option for the enthusiasts that want all the Enterprise features including the ability to use language packs.

Now let’s talk about the reasons why you should be glad that Microsoft sells a variety of Windows editions for customers:

Microsoft Cares

Microsoft is only selling so many editions of Windows for the sake of their large customer base. We don’t live in a world where “one size fits all,” so why should we expect Microsoft to release just one edition of its operating system that is right for everyone. Microsoft is often compared to Apple in this aspect, but Microsoft has a market share that is many times that of Apple’s and one operating system is simply not enough to suit everybody’s needs and tastes.

Paying for what you deserve

Would it be fair if you wanted a three-course meal, but was forced to pay the amount for a five-course meal? Of course not. So why should it be that way for operating systems. The average price of Windows 7 Home Premium ($199) and Professional ($299) comes to $249 USD. Would you be willing to pay $50 USD extra for features you won’t use at all? It isn’t fair for someone to pay for features they will not use. If this was the case, people may even begin to criticize Microsoft for packing in too many features “most users” don’t use into a single edition.

Driving down the costs of computers

The lower the cost of an operating system is, the lower the price of the PC can go. A few months ago, we reported on the possibility of netbooks costing as little as $200. A single edition of Windows at a “one size fits all” price would not make this possible. The availability of cheaper options will allow OEMs to place cheaper editions of Windows on computers, driving down the overall cost.

Still angry and frustrated with picking Windows 7 editions, no problem.

You can try all editions of Windows 7 before buying it

Microsoft has essentially been providing Windows 7 as a free download for many months now. Download it, try it, and figure out whether a specific edition will fit your needs. You can download the Windows 7 Release Candidate here and follow our guide to ensure you install the edition you want. You may also want to take our list of 12 things you must know before installing the RC. There isn’t much reason to complain when you can try all the Windows 7 editions for free before purchasing it.

Of course, there is a fine line to draw as to how many operating systems to sell for the purpose of choice. If anything, Windows 7 Ultimate could be that standalone version with all the features, a price that no one wants to pay for Windows 7. I hope this article is able to convince some of you that there is a lot of benefit to the customer behind Microsoft’s decision to sell a variety of Windows 7 editions.

Resources:

Editor’s Note: I am aware that most consumers are looking at only four editions (Starter, H/P, Pro, Ultimate.) But I personally believe that Enterprise is important as well since businessess may choose between that and Pro. And although most of the developed nations can only choose from five, it’s still important not to leave out the people living elsewhere that have six to choose from.

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