Windows 7/8 OEM or retail

Xenus · 24 Dec 2012 at 14:14

Hi guys, first time builder, need to get OS for my build. Saw on the OC software section can get 7 and 8 OEM or I can just get the full retail version of Windows 7. What is the benefits or limitations of going OEM besides the price and what do you actually get in forms of product keys, disks etc.

I am also undecided on 7 or 8. I know 8 has had a lot of issues and 7 is probably the prefered OS for windows at the moment. Any opinions?

Cheers guys!

Mr-White · 24 Dec 2012 at 14:33

Just go for Windows 8, save you having to upgrade in the future, I've had no issues so far.

MW

Glaucus · 24 Dec 2012 at 14:38

Win7 & win 8 eom licenses are very different.
Essentially
Win7 oem is tied to motherboard and requires a new license when you change mobo.
Win8 oem is essentially the retail license.

Win 8 is cheaper, the future and IMO far better.

Xenus · 24 Dec 2012 at 15:42

so if I went ahead and bought

Microsoft Windows 8 64-Bit DVD - OEM

I would be able to load it on a new system without much trouble? How many product key codes do they come with? I am guessing 1 because it is OEM? The installation same as normal retail OS?

Sorry all the questions, this i my first windows build, dont want to do anything wrong or buy stuff that I dont need xD

thank you for the advice!

zakblood · 24 Dec 2012 at 15:56

1yes, and you can only activate it a few times at max per given month, same as xp, change too much hardware and you will need to phone to do it again

Xenus · 24 Dec 2012 at 16:02

cool suff, well this my first build so have no plans on upgrading any time soon and after the hit my wallet has taken may have to wait awhile to build another system if I enjoy building this one.