xp vs xp pro

[Enemy Down!]

i am going to be purchasing another laptop, but i am wondering if i really need to shell out more money for windows xp pro? i know xp pro supports smp but since it is a laptop, i wont be doing of that.

my main concern here is that i operate a very expensive CAD program ($4k program) and i want to be sure that i have the most stable OS. will xp pro be running the CAD and other programs more stable than normal xp?

the funny thing is that i have xp pro on my current laptop and use win2k pro on my smp rig. i just don't know if i really need the pro series because i don't use windows in-depth like file sharing, networking (besides internet of course), client management. i guess you can say that i use windows "normally" like any other average joe.

[redduc900]

The two versions are identical when it comes to stability and functionality, but are intended to meet different needs. As only you know what your computing needs are, you should decide for yourself...

Windows XP Comparison Guide
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/howtobuy/choosing2.asp

Which Edition Is Right for You
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/whichxp.asp

Windows XP Home Edition vs. Professional Edition
http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_home_pro.asp

[diggingforgold]

Stick with what comes standard. If, later, you decide that you need the extra features, you can always get XP Pro.

[hkgonra]

Stick with what comes standard. If, later, you decide that you need the extra features, you can always get XP Pro.

And if you shop around you can usually buy XP Pro on its own for cheaper than an OEM will charge you for an upgrade.

[CrystalMethod]

i am going to be purchasing another laptop, but i am wondering if i really need to shell out more money for windows xp pro? i know xp pro supports smp but since it is a laptop, i wont be doing of that.

my main concern here is that i operate a very expensive CAD program ($4k program) and i want to be sure that i have the most stable OS. will xp pro be running the CAD and other programs more stable than normal xp?

the funny thing is that i have xp pro on my current laptop and use win2k pro on my smp rig. i just don't know if i really need the pro series because i don't use windows in-depth like file sharing, networking (besides internet of course), client management. i guess you can say that i use windows "normally" like any other average joe.

The best idea is to check the recommended OS, by the manufacturer of your CAD program. Not buy the home edition to find out that Pro has soething the software needs to run.

Just my $0.02