Which Home Premium version do I need to get?

Solution
Windows 8 OEM you can upgrade everything including your board.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832416550 Windows 8 OEM


Windows7-2.jpg



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
...

sophiebeth100

Honorable
Mar 14, 2013
836
1
11,360
Most people tend to go for the 64-bit OEM SP1. It's the cheapest option, and is still fully functional. As above says, you don't get support from Microsoft, and your OS will be tied to the motherboard you're using upon install. This would mean buying a new OS when you upgrade your motherboard. The OEM is a lot cheaper though, so I would go with that.
 
Depends -- what are you using it for ? And what do you plan on using it for ? How long will you be using it and do you plan to change computers and still use the software ?

First off OEM and system builder are the same thing just different marketing terms the software is identical.

The reason for the Full version being more expensive is that it is able to be moved from one system to another as many times as you want ( can only be used on one system at a time but can be reused as many times as you want on different systems.) The OEM or system builders on the other hand are essentially limited to being used on the system they are initially installed on ( though MS is fairly lenient about reactivating if you call and ask - they are not obligated to since the OEM license is designed for a single system it is originally placed on and dies with the MOBO of that system)

The only other difference is a Full version is supported by Microsoft so if you have problems with it you call themn and they will help while the OEM\system builder version is supported by the OEM so any problems with them and you call them for assistance ( MS will usually provide support but may charge for it or refer you to cal the OEM when called)

SO if you are going to need help with the OS and\or you plan on using the same OS version for more than the 1 system (ie. you tend to upgrade systems often and do not want to buy new software each time you buy a new computer) you will be better served spending the extra $ and getting a full version. If on the other hand you plan to build a system and use the OS with just that system ( you tend to keep the 1 computer long enough that by the time you change a newer version of windows will have been released) and you are comfortable enough doing your own troubleshooting should a problem arise (using forums\internet etc. to find answers) then save the $ and get an OEM version.
 

TheRagingHerp

Honorable
Jun 15, 2013
32
0
10,530




Okay, so what if I say, add more ram or change my cpu. Will I have to reactivate windows 7?
 

TheRagingHerp

Honorable
Jun 15, 2013
32
0
10,530


If I say, upgrade my cpu or ram, do I have to reinstall windows 7? Are OEM and System Builder basically the same? I'm building my computer, and I will be gaming a lot of the time.
 

Dark Lord of Tech

Retired Moderator
Windows 8 OEM you can upgrade everything including your board.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832416550 Windows 8 OEM


Windows7-2.jpg



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


Microsoft.com ^


OEM vs. Retail

OEM Windows 7 comes preinstalled on computers. This is the cheapest way to buy windows. Large PC manufacturers like Dell, HP etc. (collectively called royalty OEMs) install windows on millions of such PCs. The main characteristics of such systems are:

The license agreement and support agreement is between you and the PC maker, not MS.

Activation by the end user is not required. Windows is preactivated at the factory by the OEM using images and standard SLP keys.

Your copy of windows is locked to that PC. The license is not transferable.

OEM system builder is what you get when you buy from say Newegg or from a local "white box" vendor. It too has the characteristics of Royalty OEM windows. Although it is possible for an individual to buy a System Builder copy, the license requires that the software be installed using the OPK (OEM preinstall kit) and then resold.

Retail version is what you buy from a retailer like Amazon or Bestbuy. Its a full price version that comes packaged in a retail box with a retail product key. It has to be activated online via MS servers using the key on the box, it is not tied to the PC it was first installed on, though it can only be used on a single computer at a time. And, MS directly provides the support for it. It is also more expensive than OEM copies.

As far as functionality is concerned, theres no difference between any of the versions above, given any specific edition (i.e. between OEM pro and retail pro, or between OEM ultimate and retail ultimate).

sevenforums.com


Windows8-1_zps0f2f36f7.png



Windows 8 OEM is a whole different ballgame.

License agreement for the transfer of a Windows 8 license
http://personaluselicense.windows.com/en-US/default.aspx

 
Solution