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Windows Win7 OEM Vs Retail

Discussion in 'Software' started by dave_c, 10 May 2010.

  1. dave_c

    dave_c Minimodder

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    hey, im upgrading to ahem "official" windows, i wanna get Ultimate 64bit but there is a huge prices dfferance between OEM and Retail, usually i believe OEM just mean no box or gadgets but do i lose anything important with the OEM version in the case of win 7?

    thanks for any help you can give
     
    dave_c, 10 May 2010
    #1
  2. DragunovHUN

    DragunovHUN Modder

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    OEM windows will be tied to your hardware - if you want to move it to a different computer or upgrade too many main components it will not activate.
     
    DragunovHUN, 10 May 2010
    #2
  3. dave_c

    dave_c Minimodder

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    thats all i needed to know, thanks dragunov, much apreciated
     
    dave_c, 10 May 2010
    #3
  4. ed_456

    ed_456 The Artful Bodger

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    Just something to save you some money, do you really need Ultimate? Home Premium does me just fine, and if your that fussed about XP mode and a couple of network options then there's Professional.
     
    ed_456, 10 May 2010
    #4
  5. Teelzebub

    Teelzebub Up yours GOD,Whats best served cold

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    I've lost count of amount of times this questions been asked, Retail 64 bit is the best option you will be able to upgrade or move it to the next computer without any problems with activation.
    It just a matter of choosing the best version to suit your needs.
     
    Teelzebub, 10 May 2010
    #5
  6. Iorek

    Iorek What's a Dremel?

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    So long as you buy the OEM version with A piece of hardware, so long as the 2 parts stay together you are fine - some companies get around this by giving you a "free" kettle lead with your OEM CD/DVD.
     
    Iorek, 10 May 2010
    #6
  7. ripmax

    ripmax Minimodder

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    Always try and buy retail, with OEM if you want to upgrade/replace your motherboard you're screwed.
     
    ripmax, 10 May 2010
    #7
  8. adam_bagpuss

    adam_bagpuss Have you tried turning it off/on ?

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    your not screwed cause MS cant foresee a motherboard failure which happens.

    all it takes is a phone call to MS to say im not a pirate please activate it. This will work providing you dont abuse it cause they will catch on.
     
    adam_bagpuss, 11 May 2010
    #8
  9. Paddy4929

    Paddy4929 NangO-Gamer

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    I phoned MS when I upgraded my motherboard. Took a few minutes on the phone and my OEM Win7 was re-activated on new motherboard.
     
    Paddy4929, 11 May 2010
    #9
  10. cgthomas

    cgthomas Cpt. Handsome

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    I've done so many installations with OEM. Save that extra £20 and treat yourself to Batman Arkham Asylum (if you don't have it already )
     
    cgthomas, 11 May 2010
    #10
  11. unknowngamer

    unknowngamer here

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    UNless you're a student, or are a parent (or god forbid know anyine who will qualify and get it for you)

    Windows 7 Professional £33 (retail upgrade, but can double install trick lmgtfy)
    the only difference is bit-locker and 35 languages....
     
    unknowngamer, 11 May 2010
    #11
  12. mac007

    mac007 What's a Dremel?

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    Don't waste your money on the packaging - go with OEM. I have used it for Vista and Windows 7 now - same features except the flashy box.
     
    mac007, 21 May 2010
    #12
  13. adam_bagpuss

    adam_bagpuss Have you tried turning it off/on ?

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    er your not paying for a "flashy box" with retail

    your paying for the type of license; OEM (hardware tied) or retail (hardware unlocked)

    They are exactly the same version of windows with all the trimmings just different license agreement between you and MS
     
    adam_bagpuss, 21 May 2010
    #13
  14. TheManicGibbon

    TheManicGibbon I have no idea what's going on

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    Retail or OEM depends on how much you may be upgrading. YOu should think about that before you buy.

    Also, I agree that Ultimate is likely to be too much unless you have a specific use for Ultimate only features like frequently changing your mind about what language you speak ;)

    Otherwise, Home Premium or Professional would probably be best.
     
    TheManicGibbon, 21 May 2010
    #14
  15. play_boy_2000

    play_boy_2000 ^It was funny when I was 12

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    From my experience, you only run into the hardware issue if you don't do a fresh install when you change your motherboard (bad idea in any event). I think you can do 1-2 activations a year on an OEM key (I assume this is to account for reinstalls / repairs), so just plan your upgrades accordingly.
     
    play_boy_2000, 21 May 2010
    #15
  16. dave_c

    dave_c Minimodder

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    thanks for all the advice, i eventually went for the 7 ultimate retail,
    this was mainly because im more used to ult at work and it saves faffing :D also i do upgrade quite alot so again saves the hastle.

    sorry, i know this question has probably been over asked, but iv seen so many conflicting answers that i wasn't sure who to believe :)

    i really appreciate the help, thanks all
     
    dave_c, 25 May 2010
    #16

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