With Windows Vista just two days away I thought I would provide you with a detailed comparison between the various editions of Windows Vista. And as the saying goes... one picture is worth a thousand words, the images at the bottom illustrate all the features of the operating system according to edition.

But of course, you will also be able to judge the differences in your own house. Buy a Windows Vista DVD with a license for Home Basic. Although the license is just for Home Basic, you will be able to install and test all the editions of the operating system, with the exception of Enterprise, which is available only via volume licensing.

However, the single Vista DVD will permit you to install Home Basic, Home Premium, Business and Ultimate and to test drive each edition for free for 30 days. How? Well... during the installation process of the operating system you will be asked to enter the license key. The license key will define the edition of Windows Vista that will be deployed. However, you have the possibility to not enter any license key, install whichever version you prefer and test it. As I've said above, the operating system will deliver a 30 days Initial Grace period with full functionality. You will then be able to upgrade to either Home Premium, Business or Ultimate via Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade.

This is a method that will keep you from spending $399 for Windows Vista Ultimate, when the $239 Vista Home Premium is more than enough for your needs.