To upgrade or not to upgrade?

[Dawnshadow]

I am going to buy a desktop PC from a friend of my dad's who builds them. (I've not decided on the final stats yet, but it will be a pretty good computer.) However, I am unsure if I want to get Windows XP or to stay with Windows '98. The main issue I am concerned with is software compatability. I have a few DOS programs that I still enjoy using, and I've heard of people having problems with other older Windows programs. Is there any way to run DOS programs under XP, such as a DOS emulator? The other concern I have is the cost of XP. The $150 or $200 I'd save by not getting XP could be used to make the PC better than it would be.

Another option I am considering is also purchasing a very low-end laptop with '98 (so I can take it to classes and not have to worry about being out much if it's stolen) and a desktop with XP, and then playing my old games on the laptop.

What do you think is the best choice for me? Are there any great advantages to using XP over '98?

[bboysatch1]

Screw the old games, they have no feelings and the new ones are much better!!!
borrow xp from a friend, and don't buy really obsolete computer parts, cause there way to old!

[Dawnshadow]

I won't stoop to piracy. Besides, doesn't XP have activation?

[bboysatch1]

U don't have to activate!!! get a cd key changer from like kazaa or something1!!