Few months back, I downloaded windows-7 RC ultimate version (evaluation version for free) from Microsoft site and upgraded my vista to windows-7 and after using for few months, I came to the following conclusion about windows- 7. I hope, it would be useful to you.
Windows-7 as promised by Microsoft is really faster and better than vista but I am not sure is it really faster than XP too. The user interface is really attractive. Look wise, it resembles Vista , however, performance wise, it is far better than vista. Microsoft team has put an extra effort in making the task bar more users friendly. You can even pin your favorite shortcuts in the task bar. They have incorporated windows media centre where by you can play ur favorite music/ movies, browse ur pictures, play games etc and al at the same platforms. The installation time as well as the boot time is lesser as compared to vista.
The cons are that they have removed windows mail, widows movie maker and windows live photo gallery. However, you can download all these applications for free from Microsoft sites.Overall windows-7 is a good OS with reliability, better speed and attractive design.
Ritesh