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Usability and interface

Posted on 13 Nov 2007 at 11:14

Vista's Explorer shortcuts work well, but the browser-like navigation grates.

Simplifying the Explorer window has also left it without the space to show all the available options. To get at the hidden functions, you have to press Alt, causing the familiar old menu bar to appear above the new, streamlined one, duplicating many options and rather spoiling Microsoft's boasts of "intuitive design". It looks like here even Vista's designers have had to acknowledge the strengths of XP's way of doing things.

XP - 7
At heart, a powerful, usable interface that's stood the test of time. But where it promised graphical sophistication, it delivered only gimmickry, and finding your files can be a trial.

Vista - 8
Almost all of what's good about XP is available here, and then some. Not every new feature is a hit, but Vista has a few unique tricks that really can make life easier and more productive.

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