_should_ I install Win7?

Hello,
I understand that most of the posts here are regarding making win7 work and troubleshooting it, but I've tried glancing at the posts and looking for one where it actually discusses the worth of doing so.

As a background, I know a little bit about computers. I buy above average specs (but not top-of-the-line), and hold on to that computer as long as possible. I _do_ use the computer to play games (Assassin's Creed II, RE5..), with the heaviest load probably trying to emulate the PS2 on it.

I've been thinking of going for Win7, but I live in a country where the minimum daily wage is about $8 and so I have to think about this decision _very_ carefully. I understand the basic reasons for switching: customer support, better interface, security, speed... but If the advantages are just incremental (and not mind-blowing), I'd stick to my XP Service Pack 3.

In fact, The thought that prompted me to think of upgrading my OS was rather inane- my PS2 emulator suffers terrible frame rates for the heavier games, and I've read that the PCSX2 performance drastically improves with DX10 (which XP doesn't have). Can someone guide me in the right direction? Should I even upgrade? If so, what would you recommend me getting?

Thanks a lot, hope this isn't tl;dr territory.

Specs:
Windows XP Service Pack 3
Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad CPU Q6600 @ 2.40GHz
NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT
2030 MB RAM
SigmaTel Audio1
240 GB HD

Windows 7 Enterprise | Trial, Evaluation, Test, Download

90 Day Free Trial.

This may help you decide...

simpod: I agree with you on all fronts, as I mentioned in my post that I do understand the advantages of win7. The question is just whether these advantages are strong enough for me to shuttle a month's worth of my savings to get it. :)

patio: Thanks for that. I really was going to try and get the trial version to see how I like it, but I posted this question to see if I can get some advice from someone who is knowledgeable about the interactions of hardware and software, to maybe give me a hint as to whether performance would really be bumped up by getting this upgrade.

That said, for the trial version, what would you recommend...
1. 32bit or 64 bit? (I saw the FAQ, sadly that's too technical for me)
2. Virtual machine or dual boot?

thanks all.

noyahuid said:

I understand the basic reasons for switching: customer support,

Customer support is never a consideration in the OS world. First off...your customer support, is right here on forums like this. The only time you'd need to contact Microsoft is if you had an activation issue, and that's a quick fix on the phone. See if you can find an OEM copy for sale at any online vendor that ships to your country. Those are cheaper than a regular retail license.

Yes indeed! You will have two operatying systems to choose from when XP Pro Updates expire. You will have a blast looking at new computers and as always, the price falls rather than increases as new technology appears on the scene! Have fun!

Thanks for all the suggestions, guys. I'm glad that my initial fear was right. I'll probably just stick with what I have now and see how things develop in the long run.

Thanks for all the help, lovin' the atmosphere around this place :)