DON'T install it!!! For those who did, you will receive a warning that once installed, IE8 cannot be uninstalled unless the os is re-installed. This is true for those already having SP3 and had installed IE8 beta 1 and upgrading to beta 2.
In a nutshell, IE8 binds itself to the os and becomes part of it permanently.
Another thing, IE8 is actually developer's version and not really for mass consumers. Even though it is beta, Microsoft's definition for beta is not meant for testing but considered as an actual final release, with full support and product info.
On Google Chrome, it is fast because it has basic surfing features only. No addons or plugins. I am not even sure if java environment plugin or active X applets which is necessary for online bank access is part and parcel of its codes or if it supports it or not.
Most browsers except IE runs pretty fast without any addons or plugins. The choices are plenty.
Should just wait for Google chrome to improve and frankly, it has a long way to go. MHO.