What OS for brand new custom build?

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fredly2k

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Aug 5, 2013
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I'm pretty confused right now about what version of windows 7 to buy.
I want to be able to reinstall windows if i make a hardware change and not purchase another version.
It seems like a lot of people are purchasing the OEM version of windows and some people are saying you can change your hardware(like mobo) and reinstall the OEM just fine. Others are saying that once you make a hardware change, you cannot reinstall the OEM since its tied to your hardware config.
I really like the price on the OEM but can i reinstall after a hardware change with no problems?
 
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ubercake

ubercake

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Oct 28, 2009
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Win 7 64-bit. I've changed out a motherboard and processor due to discontinuation of the old to a new architecture altogether and didn't have to re-enter a license code or anything. I didn't re-install Windows. I just removed the drivers for the old motherboard, changed out the motherboard and processor, then updated the drivers for the new board. Windows 7 continued to work great. Of course, ymmv, but just be prepared to buy a new license if it doesn't work out for you.

The retail version does not cost too much more at this time. You might consider that kind of license if you're going to be making that kind of change to minimize the expense if you are one of those who do have to enter a new license key after the swap. It will allow you to transfer the license to the new hardware.
 
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loosescrews

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Jul 4, 2013
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Someone else asked this question on this forum and it was answered:
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/30822-63-windows-motherboard-upgrade-possible

From the Windows 7 OEM license agreement:
"You can replace the motherboard with an identical model or an equivalent model from the OEM if it fails. However, if you personally replace or upgrade the motherboard, your OEM Windows license is null and void."

If you want to be able to upgrade your motherboard, you need the full retail version.
 
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TallGuy314

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Jun 27, 2013
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You can apparently just call Microsoft if you ever need to change/upgrade a MB. Get the OEM 7 64 bit. Save you a couple hundred dollars still, at last check compared to retail. If you ever need to move it to a new MB, install it, then when it complains, it will give you an option to call Microsoft. Do it, tell them you upgraded hardware, and want to migrate the license. This used to work, I assume it still does, unless MS has changed it.
 
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Lazmarr

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Dec 31, 2011
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Actually Windows 8 OEM is cheaper than the Windows 7 OEM; atleast here in the UK it is.
 
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TallGuy314

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Yeah.....but then you have Windows 8. :)
 
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Lazmarr

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What's wrong with Windows 8? I think it's much better than Windows 7, except for a few minor things, but so far it's been great ;)
 
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TallGuy314

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I'm old and cranky and resistant to change. :) I don't like the new UI. Or how Microsoft is forcing an interface change on people who don't generally want their PC's to resemble their touchscreen phones/tablets. Anyways, rambling from the OP's topic. I'll let him get back to it. :)
 
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fredly2k

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Yeah I heard about the option to call them but most I read said that once you change hardware, it's gone so I was discouraged, so I'll look into that. Thanks
 
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