Windows 10 Announced and What Laptop to Buy Next

Windows 10 is scheduled to be released later in 2015. I am assuming a Q4 release date to be safe for my planning purposes, and so should you. If it comes out sooner, great.

Here is why it matters to you
If you are planning on purchasing a PC/laptop in the next 24 months (including this year), it matters. Windows 10 is a free upgrade if you have Windows 8.1, so you could buy a PC/laptop this year and get the free upgrade. Unfortunately, that means you have to go through the upgrade process and while I am sure they will simplify it, I wouldn't put yourself through an upgrade unless you have a strong tech support person to help you. If you can't wait until Q4, go ahead and purchase what you want today and be sure to secure the Windows 10 upgrade in the first year after it is released (it is only free the first year).

If your PC is not a productivity problem, I would wait. Windows 8 takes some getting used to. More importantly, upgrades are always more challenging than people realize. But if your computer is really slow, don't hurt your productivity for the sake of waiting for Windows 10.

Windows 10

• Improves the user experience
• Faster than Windows 7
• Cortana, your virtual assistant (think Siri)
• Touchscreen support (it's worth it, your next laptop should be touch screen, see below)

When it doesn't matter
If you just bought a PC in the last year or even last two years, you should be fine and wait another year. A good laptop or PC should last most users four-to-six years before a new PC is required. Even if you are on Windows 7, there is no need to rush out and buy a Windows 10 machine. Windows 7 will be supported for a long time.