Many folks who get a new Windows netbook for the holidays will be disappointed when they discover their shiny new PC runs Windows 7 Starter Edition -- a stripped-down version of Microsoft's new operating system  that lacks many key features.

That disclosure comes from a recent survey by Retrevo, a web site that amalgamates consumer electronics product reviews. "We think consumers will be unpleasantly surprised when they discover all of the features they're missing with Windows 7 Starter,"  says Andrew Eisner, director of content at Retrevo.

Retrevo queried 1,100 consumers. Among the survey findings:

-- Only 42% of respondents were aware that Windows 7 Starter Edition lacks key features, such as the "Aero skin" feature that enables the user to translucently stack open programs.

-- About 54% of respondents said they would be unsatisfied with a new netbook equipped with Windows 7 Starter Edition.

Microsoft spent months fielding feedback from tech experts and consumers about what it absolutely must include in a Windows 7 Starter Edition for netbooks. The company contended a stripped down version of Windows 7 was necessary to keep netbook prices low.

Eisner says many consumers are buying netbooks as a backup computer to take on the road. Still, he contends the removal of key functions -- including the ability to run multiple monitors, play DVDs or customize the desktop -- goes too far. "It's pretty outrageous that Windows 7 Starter is so weak," says Eisner.

The solution: spend $80 to upgrade your new netbook with Windows 7 Starter operating system to Windows 7 Home Premium edition, he says.

By Byron Acohido
Photo: Microsoft