Seven is shaping up as a lucky number for PC users. Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system will likely be standard on new PCs in time for the holiday shopping season, and pilot versions of the system are getting favorable reviews.
That's good news for anyone planning to buy a new PC this year, and for users who are frustrated with Microsoft's unpopular Vista operating system.
Windows 7 will be much faster than Vista, so you won't have to wait as long between the time you click and the moment your program opens -- a common gripe among Vista users. And you'll be able to manage hardware -- such as printers, scanners and cameras -- on a single screen instead of using a separate screen for each function, as with previous operating systems.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
In the bells-and-whistles category, Microsoft has added advanced touch-screen capabilities, so you can control your computer without a mouse or keyboard by sliding or tapping your finger (you'll need a touch-sensitive monitor to do this).
Microsoft is still beta testing Windows 7 and will continue to tweak it for months. The company hasn't made a decision yet on how much the system will cost. So if you're in no hurry to buy a new PC, it might make sense to wait for 7 to debut.
-
I'm 73 and hate winter, but I can't afford to be a snowbird.How can a snowbird wannabe warm up without the expense? We asked professional wealth planners for advice.
-
5 Smart Things to Do With Your Year-End BonusAfter you indulge your urge to splurge on a treat, consider doing adult things with the extra cash, like paying down debt, but also setting up a "fun fund."
-
Gen X Investors: Protect Your Portfolio From an AI BubbleAmid talk of an AI bubble, what's the best course of action for investors in their 50s and 60s, whose retirement savings are at risk from major market declines?
-
When Tech is Too MuchOur Kiplinger Retirement Report editor, David Crook, sounds off on the everyday annoyances of technology.
-
I Let AI Read Privacy Policies for Me. Here's What I LearnedA reporter uses AI to review privacy policies, in an effort to better protect herself from fraud and scams.
-
Amazon Resale: Where Amazon Prime Returns Become Your Online BargainsFeature Amazon Resale products may have some imperfections, but that often leads to wildly discounted prices.
-
What Is AI? Artificial Intelligence 101Artificial intelligence has sparked huge excitement among investors and businesses, but what exactly does the term mean?
-
Roth IRA Contribution Limits for 2026Roth IRAs Roth IRAs allow you to save for retirement with after-tax dollars while you're working, and then withdraw those contributions and earnings tax-free when you retire. Here's a look at 2026 limits and income-based phaseouts.
-
Four Tips for Renting Out Your Home on Airbnbreal estate Here's what you should know before listing your home on Airbnb.
-
Five Ways to a Cheap Last-Minute VacationTravel It is possible to pull off a cheap last-minute vacation. Here are some tips to make it happen.
-
How Much Life Insurance Do You Need?insurance When assessing how much life insurance you need, take a systematic approach instead of relying on rules of thumb.
