Should I Wait for Windows 8 to Buy a New Computer? [Ask Lifehacker]

Should I Wait for Windows 8 to Buy a New Computer? [Ask Lifehacker]:
Dear Lifehacker,

I've been seeing all sorts of ads saying I can upgrade to Windows 8 for $15 if I buy a new Windows 7 PC now. I'm in need of a new computer, but should I wait until Windows 8 is out? Or is it okay to buy one now and upgrade later?
Sincerely,

Waiting for Windows
Dear Waiting,

You ask a very good question, and it's not as black and white as it seems. Apart from saving the extra $15 (which is negligible), there are a few reasons you might want to wait for Windows 8. Here's what you'll want to consider.

If You're Buying a Laptop

As you may know, Windows 8 is going to have a brand new interface designed for touch screens. Microsoft hasn't limited it to tablets, though—it's actually going to have some nice features for laptop users, too, like new multitouch gestures for your trackpad. Some pre-Windows 8 computers (specifically those supporting fewer than 5 touch inputs, as noted by PC World) may not be able to take full advantage of Windows 8's new gestures. So, if you can wait, you might want to get a laptop that was specifically designed with Windows 8 in mind.
In addition, a lot of laptop makers are putting together full laptop/tablet combos, which let you not only take advantage of Windows 8's new gestures, but completely detach your screen and turn it into a tablet for on-the-couch reading. Check out the upcoming ASUS 600 and 810, or the HP Envy x2—they aren't as powerful as some laptops, but if all you need is something small, they'll do the trick and give you a full Windows 8 tablet to boot.

If You're Buying a Desktop

You may think desktops won't be able to take advantage of Windows 8, but you'd be wrong. Samsung's upcoming desktops will have a full touch screen. HP's new Spectre One desktop will come with a multitouch trackpad and an NFC chip that lets you log into Windows 8 or visit a specific web site just by tapping your phone to it. Even Microsoft has a Microsoft does have some few peripherals designed for Windows 8, which are worth checking out.
Of course, if you don't really plan on using these features, you can always buy (or build) a desktop now. But, with all of Windows 8's upgrades, you might find that the new, touch-centric machines fit well into your workflow.
As always, it's up to you. If you're desperate for a new computer, or if you don't think you'll use any of the new Windows 8-centric hardware, it's okay to go ahead and buy one. But, with Windows 8 so close to release, it might be worth waiting for a computer that takes full advantage of it. Do some research and see what your favorite manufacturers are coming out with, and you'll be able to make a more informed decision.
Sincerely,

Lifehacker
Title image remixed from tarasov (Shutterstock).