Which version of windows 8.1 do I buy for a new build

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Darkbreeze
Either will work. The OEM version cannot be re-activated if significant hardware changes are made as in if you swap motherboards, you will need to verify with MS on the phone. With the full version, you can generally use the online activation verification system. Otherwise, they are the same. If you don't plan on changing motherboard models later on, get the OEM. If you do, get the full 32/64 version.
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Darkbreeze

Darkbreeze

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Either will work. The OEM version cannot be re-activated if significant hardware changes are made as in if you swap motherboards, you will need to verify with MS on the phone. With the full version, you can generally use the online activation verification system. Otherwise, they are the same. If you don't plan on changing motherboard models later on, get the OEM. If you do, get the full 32/64 version.
 
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Solution
Dark Lord of Tech

Dark Lord of Tech

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Go with OEM. :D

Windows 8.1 will also receive Direct X updates.


With windows 7 OEM the license is tied to the first motherboard it's installed on.With Windows 8.1 you can move it to another build when you are done with this one , but only one computer at a time.With Windows 8.1 you can change all the hardware you want including the motherboard.


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 makes.

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 is a whole different ballgame.

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

Stoic Muffins

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So which one do you recommend and do you have a new-egg link
 
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Darkbreeze

Darkbreeze

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Here:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($89.98 @ OutletPC)
Total: $89.98
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-12-17 00:31 EST-0500


Or, if it HAS to be Newegg, here:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832416776&nm_mc=AFC-C8Junction&cm_mmc=AFC-C8Junction-_-na-_-na-_-na&cm_sp=&AID=10446076&PID=3938566&SID=
 
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Darkbreeze

Darkbreeze

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Also, BB, I've gotten into this discussion here before and while I understand what one version of the TOS says, I've also posted another version of the Windows 8 TOS that is contradictory. As well, I KNOW for a fact that on the three occasions I have swapped boards, one of those occasions being when I swapped from the Gigabyte board to the Sabertooth like you recommended, I had to reactivate by phone. They issued me a new code, no problem there, but it DOES require a new activation process if you swap out motherboards.
 
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Stoic Muffins

Stoic Muffins

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so is this the right one? :
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Microsoft-Windows-8-1-Full-Version-WN7-00578-32-bit-64-bit-/321619506366?pt=US_Operating_Systems_Software&hash=item4ae20434be
 
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Darkbreeze

Darkbreeze

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I would NOT buy a copy of Windows off Ebay. If it's been registered to another user, EVER, you will not be able to use it unless you know their Microsoft account credentials. Product keys DO get tied to specific MS accounts. And looking at the case for that product, it definitely doesn't look new and unused. I mean, maybe it is new, but for a couple of dollars less, I'd want a shrink wrapped copy from a KNOWN reputable vendor.

And yes, you probably want the disk version.
 
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Darkbreeze

Darkbreeze

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As I said, either version is fine. There really isn't much difference other than the full version gives you the option to install the 32 or the 64 bit while the OEM version must be purchased for whichever one you need. If you have a 64 bit CPU, get the 64 bit OEM version.
 
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