Windows 7 vs 8 HELP!

bigrob10 · 11 Mar 2013 at 19:38

Hi,

I have almost finished selecting the components for my new build but now I am stuck on which OS to use...

What does everyone think about Windows 8? Is it still better to stick with Windows 7?

Also, is it worth getting the OEM version or should I stick to the retail version... I don't really understand the difference other than one you dont recieve any support from Microsoft with the OEM and it can only be used on one computer (motherboard). Will it be possible to upgrade the OEM if I do decide to change to windows 8 in the future?

Thanks in advance!

Glaucus · 11 Mar 2013 at 19:55

Win8 oem is retail, they changed the license massively(it's transferable for a start so not li led to motherboard, amongst other things). So you have to compare the price of win8 oem vs win7 retail.

Get win8 as its cheaper, got many nice features and better for nearly everything. Even if you hate metro you don't have to use it and can easily get start menu back.

bigrob10 · 11 Mar 2013 at 21:08

So you suggest 8 then... which version would you recommend and can you just confirm the differences between OEM and retail if, as you say, things havre changed since 7.

cawill · 11 Mar 2013 at 22:04

I would suggest 8, even if you don't like the start menu you can avoid using it and take advantage of its other features.

Glaucus · 11 Mar 2013 at 22:18

bigrob10 said:
So you suggest 8 then... which version would you recommend and can you just confirm the differences between OEM and retail if, as you say, things havre changed since 7.

There is no win8 retail.
License has changed so home builders can now officially use oem versions, it is not tied to motherboard and is transferable.
As to which version have a look at the comparison chart and see what you need.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_8_editions
Note if you want windows media centre you need pro, then buy it.