OEM version or Full version?

[Dean Fry]

Which version of Windows 8 do I need for a new home built computer, OEM version or Full version?

 

[smorizio]

oem is locked to that mb and cant be used again then retail version can be used on another mb if you need to replace or upgrade your rig. the oem most time is cheaper.

 

[Dean Fry]

So Retail is recommended then?

 

[bigpinkdragon286]

Well, depends. If you plan to just stick to that build for a while, OEM is a great cost savings. If you plan to continuously upgrade such things as your motherboard, between Windows release cycles, go with retail.

 

[k1114]

What smorzio said is incorrect for windows 8. 8 is tranferrable, 7 oem is not. Full comes with both 64 bit and 32 bit. Oem is just one and is cheaper.

 

[Dean Fry]

Retail is Full version correct?

 

[bigpinkdragon286]

Yes, retail is full version.

 

[Dean Fry]

Thank you everyone, I have ordered all my parts now for christmas.

 

[k1114]

There really is no "retail" for windows 8.

 

[k1114]

You can do all the upgrades you want with oem.

 

[bigpinkdragon286]

Actually, if you want to get technical, you're not even supposed to use anything but retail versions unless you're a system builder.

Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro are the first Windows product to allow for a personal use license with OEM software. But it only qualifies on new builds, not upgrades. Windows 8.1 does not qualify for the personal use license, but when upgrading from 8 to 8.1 the personal use license rights transfer.

If you are purchasing Windows 8.1, you need full retail. (pardon my brain fart) There is no retail for Windows 8.1, as it's intended for OEMs. If you're purchasing 8, you can choose OEM for a new build, then upgrade to 8.1 for free and your rights will automatically transfer.