So my decision to get Windows 7 retail was about to be finalized. I had found out that even if i build a new system, my free Windows 10 upgrade is valid for that completely new PC build as well, and will simply transfer over. I found out this only works for retail copies of OSes. The upgraded will then be treated as a retail version, from what i understand.
My first problem: Microsoft doesn't seem to be selling Windows 7 retail anymore. I don't even know where to find it. Other than eBay, i haven't really found any copies.
Second problem: What in the FLYING PHUCK is the difference between RETAIL and OEM?! Who the hell comes up with the nomenclature for these things?! From my understanding, retail means, physical version bought at a RETAILER. OEM?! WHAT!? When you purchase a game off of Steam, it's not a "retail" copy. You've gotten a digital copy of a game. That makes sense.
Or are the 'retail' and 'OEM' simply the names of the LICENSE TYPES? Either way, i am ideally supposed to have a fully functional PC in approximately two weeks, and choosing the hardware isn't really an issue at that point, but this OS problem has become a huge snag. I even tried to say "phuque it" and get Windows 10. And i can't seem to even find the "RETAIL" version. Unless it's what they call the "Full" version. And it's only a mere $250! YAAAAAY!
OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer". An OEM licence is given to companies like Dell, HP and so on so that they can install it on lots of machines at the same time. Not sure if all those PCs share the key, but anyway. Making multiple installs easy for these companies is the goal. In case you buy a PC like that you usually can't recycle the key to install windows on another machine.
As for windows 10, for now you can just download it free of charge and you don't need a key (again, for now...).
Well, if i can find Windows 7 retail somewhere, i'd like to purchase it. Might just do an eBay purchase. I just find it odd how they're "NEW" but opened packaging.
I was able to buy Windows 7 Ultimate OEM, this was when it first came out. ( $650 Retail VS $299 OEM) I think you are meant to install the OEM Copy with some tooled, I didn't but this worked fine for me.
I Have Had installed on a Toshiba Laptop , Then an i5 Based system and different A series systems. I think I have had to ring Microsoft once or Twice to reactivate it.
Windows 7 OEM licenses where originally locked to the first motherboard that they were installed on and not transferable if the MB was changed. I don't know if they have changed this for 7 or not. Windows 8 OEM licenses have always been transferable. I've been using the same 8 OEM key for 3 yrs with 4 different motherboards. My system is completed different from the first one I installed it on know and I've always been able to activate it. I updated to 10 back in August and I can do a clean install of 10 now and activate it with the same key as long the Windows 10 version is 1511 (has the latest big November update) or greater.
Edit: Also, OEM versions don't come with technical support from Microsoft. They are meant for system builders that provide their own tech support.
Oh, alright. That's what it is. I remember seeing that, but usually it'd specify. Damn that terminology. Now to deal with the horrific realities of getting an OS. I started another thread, and we already established that a good, possibly the BEST route for me is to SOMEHOW get a Windows 7 retail copy, and from there, secure my Windows 10 free upgrade. If i am able to get a Windows 7 retail copy, my free upgrade copy of Windows 10 is treated just like a retail copy. I will be able to activate or "reserve" my Windows 10 upgrade, and even install it onto a future system from what i understand, even if it's a completely new build with new motherboard.
Ohh... man. I thought it was bad already choosing parts. But this has turned my dream of getting a new PC into a nightmare.
We dont advise piracy here, but it is something we all have done at one time. Look into daz windows loader then look into free upgrade to win 10. not sure if it will work, but will work as a last resort.
I could swear Retail = windows bloatware plus OEM bloatware OEM =windows and less bloatware ( just windows bloatware :) torrents and cracks .............facepalm. I personally always get oem windows home version. Then build from there. Maybe get lucky and find win 8 somewhere on the cheap and have a full upgrade path all way to 10. Linux Mint is not a bad option in a pinch.
The difference between OEM and retail is they way they are activated. a company like DELL cant sit there and activate every system. So the solution is to just have a pre activated image that they use on all the systems that produces a OEM key. If you ever come across a OEM key on a old system save it. Because you can still use it if you go through the phone activation system. Well at least with 7 you can.
Yeah, so that explains my system. Has OEM Vista. Yuck. Well, currently on the lookout for 7 retail. Gotta get pro so i can get Windows 10 pro. And license that carries over for W10 will be retail as well! So glad i found that out.
So i was told that i could get a retail Windows 7 for around $70. Apparently it hold true. I just want to make sure i didn't eff up, and that this is legit. Because if so, it's all smooth sailing from there.
By the way I have had no problems in the past switching oem windows and activating to another system. It is linked to the motherboard so I just call the number and say the board failed and I had to rebuild the system,