I feel like an idiot asking. But... Which one is better.

[Rapple12]

System Builder.
http://www.amazon.com/Windows-Premium-64bit-System-Builder/dp/B004Q0PT3I/ref=sr_1_1?s=software&ie=UTF8&qid=1344555723&sr=1-1&keywords=Windows+7

OR

The.. errrr. OS?
http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Windows-7-Home-Premium/dp/B002DHGMK0/ref=sr_1_3?s=software&ie=UTF8&qid=1344555723&sr=1-3&keywords=Windows+7

With the system build if you decide do upgrade a part of your pc do you need to buy a new copy? or mother board crashes you would. Also if you reformat you're pc can you reinstall windows with the system builder?

 

[Sakkura]

The cheap one appears to be an OEM version, which will only work on one computer (one motherboard - you can change all other components if you like). It's also not supposed to be used by homebuilders.

The other is a full retail version that isn't tied to a single computer.

 

[maui67]

There are no stupid questions, only stupid answers =)

Take a look at this link for a full explanation of the different versions of Windows: http://www.mydigitallife.info/differences-between-retail-oem-system-builder-volume-licensing-full-or-upgrade-license-for-windows/

 

[Rapple12]

The cheap one appears to be an OEM version, which will only work on one computer (one motherboard - you can change all other components if you like). It's also not supposed to be used by homebuilders.

The other is a full retail version that isn't tied to a single computer.

So the second one i could install on multiple computers?

 

[Sakkura]

So the second one i could install on multiple computers?

Not simultaneously AFAIK, but sequentially. Which means you wouldn't need to buy a new Windows when you replace your computer. And even if you wanted a newer version of Windows, you could just buy an upgrade to apply over your old Windows 7, and upgrades are usually a lot cheaper.

 

[raytseng]

no, you can't do that, still only 1 active computer.


But you can use the Retail license on your current computer; then some time in the future on your next computer (may require calling microsoft number)

The oem one is supposed to be 1 and only 1 computer, period. If you build a new computer, it will say this key is no good anymore, call microsoft, and they are supposed to tell you to buy another key.

However, it is reported that depending on which microsoft rep you get, even though you don't deserve it, and you just have an OEM license, sometimes they give you a new key when you call; even though they should be saying you need to buy a new license

Read the article.

 

[Rapple12]

So what would be better for a new build and a new builder

 

[raytseng]

if you don't see yourself switching computers often or in near future,
Most people will take the discount and just get the OEM license.

 

[Rapple12]

if you don't see yourself switching computers often or in near future,
Most people will take the discount and just get the OEM license.

And if something happens. I can do a fresh install of windows with the OEM?

 

[Sakkura]

And if something happens. I can do a fresh install of windows with the OEM?

You can reinstall it on the same computer as many times as you like.

 

[raytseng]

At worst, if you start changing too many hardware parts, you may get a popup screen saying you have to call microsoft.

If you've paid and bought the software and are in the right; don't be shy about calling in they will guide you around that very fast.

 

[Sakkura]

Well... technically you're not supposed to use Windows 7 OEM when you homebuild. But I don't know whether Microsoft actually care. You're still a paying customer.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Windows-7-Home-Premium/dp/B002DHGMK0/ref=sr_1_3?s=software&ie=UTF8&qid=1344555723&sr=1-3&keywords=Windows+7

Retail ^ can be used on 1 computer at a time but can be reused

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

http://www.amazon.com/Windows-Premium-64bit-System-Builder/dp/B004Q0PT3I/ref=sr_1_1?s=software&ie=UTF8&qid=1344555723&sr=1-1&keywords=Windows+7

OEM < Can only be use on one computer,the one you install it on.

 

[Brett928S2]

Well... technically you're not supposed to use Windows 7 OEM when you homebuild. But I don't know whether Microsoft actually care. You're still a paying customer.

Hi

I own computer shops and yes sometimes they do care... and make you pay... we have a few customers a year who come in to buy a retail version because of this...

Its also why we dont sell OEM versions.... only retail...

All the best Brett

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

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 ^

 

[Sakkura]

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 ^

Here's the word for us "hobbyists":

There is a growing market for "do-it-yourself" home PC hobbyists who assemble PCs from components for their own use. Microsoft retail software licenses are the appropriate licenses for the do-it-yourself market. OEM System Builder software is not intended for this use, unless the PC that is assembled is being resold to another party. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

http://www.microsoft.com/oem/en/licensing/sblicensing/pages/licensing_for_hobbyists.aspx#fbid=A7Pfteg80m2