Need help, confused with how to install windows on new build,

[xcreepx]

First post, go easy on me

I am lost as to what I should purchase ( newegg.ca ) as I see multiple different versions of Windows, however I am unsure what would be the best option, I do have a old, salvages CD-ROM that could be used in my build, but I would prefer to go with a Flash/USB install of windows,I see OEM available if someone would explain, can anyone here point me in the right direction? What should I do, what would be the best option, I feel like I am in over my head, but this seems to be a very, very helpful community, and look forward to being a part of it Thank you.

Here is my build ( haven't chosen GPU or OS yet --open to advice, as this is my first build.)

CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor

CPU Cooler: Corsair H100i GTX 70.7 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler-Purchased.

Motherboard: Asus Z170 PRO GAMING ATX LGA1151 Motherboard-Purchased

Memory: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-2666 Memory-Purchased

Storage: Samsung 850 EVO-Series 250GB 2.5" Solid State Drive-Purchased

Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive-Purchased

EVGA 120-G1-0650-XR 80 PLUS GOLD 650 W 10 yr Warranty Fully Modular-Purchased

Case: Phanteks Enthoo Pro ATX Full Tower Case-Purchased

Monitor: BenQ XL2411Z 144Hz 24.0" Monitor

Keyboard: Cooler Master CM Storm Devastator Gaming Bundle Wired Gaming Keyboard w/Optical Mouse

 

[clutchc]

If you are used to Win7, go with that. Getting a new build up and running correctly might be easier with an OS you are familiar with. And Win7 is still available for upgrade to Win 10 until June.

This is a good guide for installing a Win7 OS to a new SSD/HDD system: http://www.overclock.net/t/1156654/seans-windows-7-install-optimization-guide-for-ssds-hdds

 

[xcreepx]

Thanks! Would it be a good option for me to simply buy a loaded flash with Windows 7 from Newegg, OEM

 

[xcreepx]

I just want to have the most pain free installation, as this is my first time installing any OS on a new build,

 

[clutchc]

Thanks! Would it be a good option for me to simply buy a loaded flash with Windows 7 from Newegg, OEM

I would think so if you don't have an optical drive. But...

If you have a legit product key, you can also download the Win7 ISO file for the version of Win you own here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows7
Then you can convert it to a bootable flash drive with this: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-usb-dvd-download-tool

But be aware, you'll have to remove the flash drive when the PC does it's first re-boot or it will start the installation pgm all over again. I think that's because it is made from a DVD ISO that would normally be looking for a disk to bypass.

 

[jsmithepa]

OEM = You get no Microsoft support (no big deal in my book), and you have to make sure it says WILL INSTALL ON NEW MACHINE, and supposedly OEM is tied to the first machine you install it on (begs the question what happens if it dies or when you have to upgrade) but with a little effort this is not a problem. You don't want any of these hassle, buy a full retail$$ (non OEM) version.

If they sell you the OS on a bootable flash, that's actually the easiest way. A DISC would come as a DVD.

 

[xs4amit]

Windows 7 will be a nice choice.

Although, windows 10 is not that bad. But i observed that it is getting heavier as it is getting updates. Also a lot of bugs are there and some games/Apps have compatibility issues.

windows 7 would be a better bet.