OEM vs Retail

Operating Systems & Open Source Windows
1

Should a but windows 8 OEM or Retail for the PC i intend to build.?

What are the pros and cons of each and what do most pc builders use?

2

I pirate windows, personally. Well, I would, if I didn't have Dreamspark access.

But I will definitely continue pirating after I graduate.

Pirated windows works exactly like legal copies and I don't feel like giving Microsoft money.

3

O.E.M. - Original Equipment Manufacturer

retail vs OEM "versions" isn't the real question (I assume)

There are 4 versions of windows 8

  • Windows 8 (AKA basic)
  • Windows 8 Pro
  • Windows 8 Enterprise
  • Windows 8 RT

Windows 8 (basic) is fine.

Windows 8 pro has windows media center, and other more advanced functionality for savvy users.

Enterprise edition has server elements and few normal people would use it.

RT is for tablets and is complete garbage.

 

In short consider basic or pro editions and what your using the pc for.

4

What are the differences in the OEM version ?

Why is it cheaper?

I know there is Pro, Home Premium. But Both have an OEM flavour 

5

OEM versions of Windows 7 are identical to Full License Retail versions except for the following:

  • OEM versions do not offer any free Microsoft direct support from Microsoft support personnel
  • OEM licenses are tied to the very first computer you install and activate it on
  • OEM versions allow all hardware upgrades except for an upgrade to a different model motherboard
  • OEM versions cannot be used to directly upgrade from an older Windows operating system

 

6

there is no home premium for windows 8.

OEM vs retail has legal issues.  OEM is intended for new computers for resale, and retail is retail.  Basically OEM is cheaper because the license isn't "supposed" be transferred from one computer to another.  In reality, it's more of a distribution chain thing, allows OEM's to either cost cut or partake in profiting by selling windows along with the final product.

another way one can think about it, is in terms of packaging being different, but the license is what is important to the user when they eventually need to reinstall because they migrated to a new system,

as for what builders use, I don't know.  I assume they're windows with unlimited licenses that are available through MSDN subscriptions or other means, but it's been a long time since I've been involved with that kind of stuff.

7

^^this better than ↓↓ that