You're probably better off with Linux then. Many old gadgets only have windows xp drivers, and don't work on any version of windows that has been derived from NT. However, most do have Linux support
Win2000 as well, that was my favorite for a long time. I eventually upgraded, kicking and screaming, because the Supreme Commander beta wouldn't run on Win2000 and required WinXP.
Fun silly fact, Win8 appears to be WinNT 6.2, go figure.