I got a free copy of Windows 2000 pro when it first came out but didn’t install for well over a year. When I did, my computer would not work because it was not compatible with my video card.
No problem,by then there had been a couple of SPs released and one specifically called out a fix for my card. I downloaded in safe mode, installed, and it worked fine ever since.
The only way I would buy a “brand new” operating system is if it came with my new computer, ensuring compatibility. But I always build my computers so that option is out.
I build my own as well. About every six to seven years when I’ve exhausted all possible upgrades, I start over and then I’m briefly cutting edge. Usually what forces me ahead is gaming. Even then, the games I like I usually don’t find until their aged a couple years. Plus many game makers don’t require cutting edge just to broaden the audience.