Digital Home Thoughts: Engadget Thoroughly Reviews Windows 7 Beta

"We've covered a few tidbits of what the Windows 7 Beta has to offer, including the mess of machines we've installed it on, but we finally gathered together all our thoughts and impressions of the OS into one meaty pile of words and screencaps. Naturally, we're working with a beta here, so things can absolutely get better (or worse), and Redmond might be hiding a feature or two in the wings -- or for the inevitable SP1 -- but we'd say Microsoft has really put its best foot forward here. Check out all our ramblings after the break."

More reviews of Windows 7 Beta are coming in, but Engadget has taken the time to publish a detailed review, going over each major component of note. They certainly like what they see, and applaud many of the improvements made, but they also take time to criticize many, many parts of Windows 7. In the end, they see the upcoming OS as an evolutionary step in the right direction for Microsoft. I really like how they've broken Windows 7 into different parts, explaining what we can expect with pictures. They thoroughly walk through each step, from the Superbar, to how the display control panel's been updated to benefit mobile workers, to its home networking abilities. I particularly like the part showing the "Play to device" feature. I also feel that the reviewer, while trying to be fair, has not been impressed with Microsoft in the past, so comments are harsh. I find this a good thing, since many reviews out there seem to be a bit blinded by some parts of Windows, gushing over every tweak. This review brings Windows 7 back to Earth and looks at it from a more practical perspective. Definitely a worthwhile read for those looking to upgrade once Widows 7 comes out.