Reactions towards Windows 8 has been mixed among consumers, and thus many who bought a Windows based machine are all about downgrading to Windows 7. However, doing so comes with a price, a hefty one at that.

A certain Microsoft Certified Service Center is robbing consumers blind by selling them Windows 8-based computers and then offering to downgrade these devices to Windows 7 for $125. It is not yet certain how many Windows 8 users took saw this so-called "special offer" and jumped right at without thinking twice. But with the way many people think these days, it wouldn't overly surprising if this certified service center is making a lot of money doing this.

PC users who are confident that they do not require Windows 8 are better off purchasing a machine running Windows 7 instead of going around in circles. For those who are on the fence, how about giving Windows 8 a test spin at a local store before buying? That seems like a smart move rather than purchasing a Windows 8-based computer and then having to pay big bucks to downgrade.

The decision to purchase a Windows 7 PC should be swift, because computers with Windows 7 installed will not be around forever. It took nine years for Microsoft to pull the plug on Windows XP based computers, and four years for Vista, so unless Windows 8 turns out to be the biggest flop in Microsoft's history, Windows 7 will never get the Windows XP treatment.

Make the choice now, consumers, or forever hold your peace.