Difference between Win 7 and Win 7 system builder

[dynamiteboy13]

What is the Difference between Win 7 Home premium and "Home Premium w/SP1 64-bit-System Builder License and Media"? The builder is much much cheaper than the retail. What are the differences? Can the builder pack be upgraded to pro with one of those upgrades home to pro upgrades?

 

[dodger46]

System Builder or OEM is locked to the motherboard of the 1st system it is installed on.
ie. not meant to be transferred from PC to PC. Also the vendor of the PC with the OEM licence is responsible for for the software (Advice etc.) The retail version is more flexible, can be installed on any machine as long as only one at a time. Microsoft provide the backup for the software. OEM software can be upgraded.
Definitive answer regarding OEM
http://prntscr.com/9537y

 

[dynamiteboy13]

which OS? OEM or Retail?

 

[dynamiteboy13]

so if i am purchasing a custom laptop which should i purchase?

 

[dodger46]

Well, as you are unlikely to be able to upgrade your motherboard when it becomes obsolete, with Retail you could transfer to another custom laptop/desktop whatever. OEM could not be transferred. On the other hand, if you're confident that your lappy will last for several years and by that time you can't do without Win 8/9/10, then save money with the OEM.

 

[dynamiteboy13]

Best answer selected by dynamiteboy13.

 

[dynamiteboy13]

Is there any other differences to speak of? Any installation differences?

 

[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 ^

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

No same install!