I've experimented with a few Windows 7 simulators and found that while they do a decent job of replicating the aesthetic and user interface, they fall short in performance and compatibility. These simulators often run as an application overlaying your actual operating system, so they can't perfectly mimic the deeper functionalities of Windows 7. If you're looking for nostalgia or prefer the user interface, they might suffice. However, for full compatibility and performance, it's better to use a virtual machine or find ways to adapt to the newer OS versions. As for recommendations, it really depends on your primary needs—whether it's just the leer or if you need operational capabilities as well.