Key Difference: Windows 7 Home Basic is a version that is not widely available everywhere; it is only available in certain ‘emerging markets’ and is limited to 141 countries. Windows Home Basic as the name suggests is a very basic version of Windows and only allows users limited capability. Windows 7 Ultimate is one of the highest versions of the system offered by Microsoft. This version shares the same features as the Windows 7 Enterprise; however, it is available for home users on an individual license basis.

Windows 7 is an operating system launched by Microsoft for its PCs, laptops and netbooks. While, many other OS companies have launched standard and uniform operating systems for all of their users, Microsoft has divided its operating system into different versions. The different versions offer different features and capabilities for a different price. This is done to ensure that each user will only have to pay for the features that he/she requires. Windows 7 Home Basic and Windows 7 Ultimate are two different versions of Windows 7 and offer different features. Microsoft has ranked the versions in terms of features that it offers, with each version offering the features provided by the cheaper versions and more.

Windows 7 Home Basic is a version that is not widely available everywhere; it is only available in certain ‘emerging markets’ and is limited to 141 countries. Windows Home Basic as the name suggests is a very basic version of Windows and only allows users limited capability. The Home Basic version excludes certain Windows Aero options that were introduced with Windows Vista. This allows users only partial support to the aesthetic features that are provided by the Aero. In addition to limited aesthetic appeal, there are also a few functionality limitations. Home Basic does not come pre-installed with Windows Media Center. However, this can be purchased and downloaded from the company’s website. The lack of Windows Media Center limits media centralization and TV capabilities of the user. The core function of the Media Center is to consolidate all media needs of the user in one place. It also allows users to watch TV online as well as attach TV tuner. Movies, photos, videos and music functions are still allowed in Home Basic, but users are required to access different applications separately for each function.

Windows 7 Ultimate is one of the highest versions of the system offered by Microsoft. This version shares the same features as the Windows 7 Enterprise; however, it is available for home users on an individual license basis. This is the most expensive variant of Windows 7 and is offers all the features of the other versions and much more.  The Ultimate version was created for users that wanted every type of upgrade available in their computers, along with for those that require high-end security features for their home systems. There are only a few features in Windows 7 Ultimate that could be proven useful for individuals, while others are better suited for IT Professionals. Additional features include: BitLocker Drive Encryption, 35 different languages to choose from, AppLocker (allows blocking of certain software from running on the comp), BranchCache, Direct boot from VHD, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, DirectAccess, etc. These features are more beneficial to corporate companies that require more system protection.

All versions of Windows 7, except the Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic version will play DVDs without the need for downloading any extra software. All versions of Windows 7 will receive Mainstream Support until January 2015 and Extended Support till January 2020.

This checklist is adapted from the diagrams provided by Microsoft to Neowin.net.

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