Buy Windows 7, Get an Almost Free Computer

Windows 7 will be released the day after tomorrow. I am thinking of purchasing a  copy so that I can write software reviews while testing the programs on Microsoft's latest version. This morning I read a sales flyer to check out prices. In this case, it was an advertisement from MicroCenter, a chain of 22 computer stores. I think most other discount computer stores have similar pricing.

MicroCenter will start selling Windows 7 full version software on Thursday morning for $199.99. An upgrade version sells for $119.99. (You might note than only Vista can be upgraded. All older Windows operating systems will require a full reformat of the hard drive and a new installation, not an upgrade.)

I couldn't help but notice the same sales flyer lists a number of laptops being sold with Windows 7 pre-installed. Prices begin at $299.99.

You mean that I can buy a complete computer for only $100 more than the cost of the operating system? In effect, MicroCenter is saying, "Buy the operating system and we will throw in a complete computer for another $100."

Indeed, it isn't the most powerful laptop available today but the specifications would have been considered top-of-the line two or three years ago: AMD Athlon 64 processor, 2 gigabytes of RAM memory, a 160 gigabyte hard drive, a 15.4-inch screen, Wi-Fi wireless networking, and Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit installed.

I am impressed with that pricing. Either the operating system is overpriced or else the hardware is becoming super cheap.