Gadgets

• Vista Home features desktop gadget applications not compatible with Windows XP Home. Gadgets display on the side of the desktop, or detach for customized use. Built in Gadgets include an RSS reader, analog clock, stock tracker, notepad, CPU usage meter, and other basic tools. Users can download other gadgets online.
  
  

Start Menu Searches

• While XP Home users must browse to system resources they wish to use, Vista Home allows direct access to files and programs from the Start menu using Instant Search. A simple search box inlaid to the Start menu quickly finds files related to the input.
  
  

DirectX

• Windows XP works with DirectX 9 and older versions, and only Vista gives users access to the more powerful DirectX 10. While most games and other graphically intensive programs work with either version, DirectX 10 offers advanced graphical features not possible with older versions.
  
  

Interface

• The primary aesthetic difference between XP Home and Vista Home is the new Vista Aero interface. Vista windows have subtle sheens and transparencies, and animations accompany window minimizing and maximizing. The Windows Flip feature allows users to scroll through each open window using onscreen animations. XP windows are opaque, and do not animate.
  
  

Program Compatibility

• The vast majority of programs compatible with Windows XP Home also run on Vista Home. With some exceptions, such as DirectX 10, programs designed for Vista also operate in XP. Certain other programs, such as some "Games for Windows" titles, only operate on Windows Vista.