ExtremeTech posted pretty good descriptions on which Windows Vista is right for an user. There are six main editions of Windows Vista. We’re not going to go into the Starter Edition in this article, because there simply isn’t that much to say. There is no pricing announced, and you won’t find it on store shelves or as an option from major OEMs. It is targeted at large institutions in developing areas—it’s the Vista version for a developing-nation government to buy 50,000 licenses for use with aging computers. Since it’s not even going to be an option for consumers or businesses, and only serves to complicate matters, we’ll cut it from the matrix entirely. Visit ExtremeTech to see the checklist.

Windows Vista Starter
Sold only on new PCs in emerging markets such as India and Thailand. Runs only on 32-bit machines, and will be able to handle only a limited number of programs at a time.

Windows Vista Home Basic
Comparable to XP Home. Has the security and search abilities particular to Vista, but does not offer its fancy graphics or high-end media features.

Windows Vista Home Premium
A higher-end option for consumers. Adds support for Vista’s new graphics as well as Media Center and Tablet PC features.

Windows Vista Business
Similar to XP Professional. It’s the mainstream corporate OS; also contains extra tools for small businesses.

Windows Vista Enterprise
Available only to customers with volume licenses. Includes all of the features of Vista Business, with the addition of encryption, Unix services and virtual machine capabilities.

Windows Vista Ultimate
Combines the features of Windows Vista Enterprise and Windows Vista Home Premium to offer the highest-end version of Windows yet.