To Bluecurve or not Bluecurve?
 

As a RedHat user, I have found myself in somewhat of a dilemma. Until just recently, I was running RH7.3 on my system. However, I completely cleaned out my computer and am thinking about intalling RH9. Before I do so, however, a couple quick questions:

1) There seems to be quite a bit of controversy over Bluecurve, RedHat's new interface. Are there any user impressions out there that might provide some insight as to whether Bluecurve is superior to the old but familiar feel of RH7.3? "Superior" here can mean technically superior (e.g., faster, smaller, etc.), or easier to use. I have a feeling that the old 7.3 interface is the way to go until RH figures out what they're doing with Bluecurve, but I could be wrong.

2) Are there any significant differences -- NOT related to the interface -- between RH7.3 and RH9? In other words, is there anything I'm losing out on my installing 7.3 instead of 9?

3) And finally, a quick poll: RH7.3, RH8, or RH9?

As with any RedHat user, I'm especially wary of *.0 releases, but RH8 and 9 seem particularly innovative.

Actually, I haven't noticed much difference in RH8.0 and 7.3. About all that the BlueCurve system does is give it a more "Windows XP" look and added a few new Kontrol Panel features. I have noticed that RH 8.0 seems to be gaining popularity quickly, but RH9.0 has had some mixed reviews... I am not sure what your computing needs are, but I have had no problems running RH8, still handles the same as 7.3 just looks a bit "prettier"

Bluecurve is just a theme. You can easily switch to others if you don't like. The best solution is just install it and see for youself. Everyone has each own preference. I like bluecurve. I prefer RH9 over RH8 mainly because applications load significantly faster in Gnome and the "extra" menu item has been removed.

Red hat 9 has been working great for us. I like bluecurve I think Redhat did a good job on it. It is more user friendly and that is what we need. We are using linux as some workstations and need a good gui. If linux wants to continiue to grow it will need a gui as user friendly as windows.

PS. one thing I REALLY hate about 9.0, during install in the X configuration the test settings button is gone.

As moeminhtun said, Bluecurve is just a theme - Gnome has clearly improved throughout the releases though - on *average* I think you'd prefer Red Hat 9 to 7.3 - try it - I prefer Mandrake 9.1 to Red Hat 9 though.