PCdecrapifier v. clean install

I just read through orev and stallen's guides to clean Vista installation.* And, while these look pretty simple to use (though I worry about missing a driver along the way), I'm wondering what the actual performance increase is compared to using uninstall software like pcdecrapifier.

Obviously, I'm pretty new to the notebook world (my last purchase, configured by my somewhat more tech-savvy brother, was an IBuddie--don't even remember the OEM--5+ years ago). But that doesn't mean I wouldn't mind learning a little more about my system through the clean install process, especially if the time and effort are worth it.

Has anyone had experience with pcdecrapifier or similar, and the clean install end-product? Is there significant difference with boot times, functionality, etc?

Any direction would be appreciated.

(Also: Despite the "v." in the title, I'm not trying to start a "clean install!"/"no, leave it, noob!" war here. I'm just looking to see what kind of cost/benefit there is with each process.)

*And thanks by the way for these resources!

 

Well...I think the best way for you to learn more about your laptop is to do a clean install. It isn't as hard as it seems. Basically you just reinstall the operating system and then install the needed drivers. Then you get to decide what you want to install.

I would recommend that you order the Windows Vista CD so you can do a clean install (only $5...so not too bad) but in the meantime try removing some stuff that you don't plan on using. Experiment with your laptop and if you mess something up you can always start over.
Tim

 

IMHO, going through the clean install process is worth the effort simply to learn about your machine, not to mention that someday you may well need to do a fresh install.

If you were to thoroughly clean your laptop, thinned out the startup apps and running processes, etc, I doubt you'd really see a huge difference in everyday performance. Not sure how or if the cleaning would have an affect on gaming, though - I don't game.

 

I agree totally. A clean install is like a race car- zoom zoom zoom
No way that any removal tools/programs can improve performance and give your system some extra pep like a clean install.

And BTW, if you need the a copy of the Windows VISTA 32bit Anytime Upgrade Disk, I know someone who is uploading it to the NET as we speak and it should be ready for download sometime late today. It will be an ISO file broken up into 6 parts, all about 500Mbs.Please PM me if you need the links.