i have EQ5. i got it years ago before 6 or 7. there are some bells and whistles on 7, but i haven't needed anything that 5 doesn't offer. i've heard that the drawback to 6 is that it can be loaded on a limited number of computers. i've had a few computer replacements, so i wouldn't go for 6. i could not live without my EQ. it allows me to draft blocks that i see here and gives me yardage requirements for my quilts. also, very easy to change colorways to see what i like best.