Windows 7 Professional 64-bit OEM version

Louisaz · 26 Jul 2010

I am about to build a new home PC and will be installing Windows 7 Professional 64-bit OEM version. I am a longtime XP SP3 user and look forward to having a Windows 7 system.

I am concerned that there may be limitations in the OEM version for PC builders that I am not aware of.

What are the differences between the OEM version and the FULL retail version? [I can find little on the Internet explaining the differences.]

I'm guessing there won't be a manual or fancy box, but I assume there will be a CD and key that will permit me to reinstall the OS if necessary.

Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,

Louis

Petey7 · 26 Jul 2010

The OEM version probably doesn't have a fancy box, like you state. Also, you only get one version of the OS. Those of use that buy the regular retail copy get a DVD with 64-bit and a DVD with 32-bit version. You only get the version you specifically order. Beyond that, the features are the same and you will get a key, and probably a sticker you can place on your computer with the key on it (not sure about that). People on here that have also bought the OEM version probably have more details, but for the most part, you won't notice anything besides the lower price.

Louisaz · 26 Jul 2010

Thanks for that very helpful reply -- which begs a second question: Would there be any reason WHY I would want to have BOTH 32 and 64-bit versions?

strollin · 26 Jul 2010

There are no limitations between the OEM and retail versions. OEMs can use the MS Windows OPK (OEM Preinstallation Kit) to customize the install of the OEM version. See here.

Louisaz · 26 Jul 2010

Excellent. The website you included is most helpful.

Thanks,

Louis

alphanumeric · 26 Jul 2010

The big difference is the licensing. Once you install and activate an OEM version it can't be moved to another PC. It is forever tied to that hardware (motherboard). A retail version can be moved to another PC. It can still only be activated on one PC at a time with that product code, but it's not locked into the first PC its installed on. As far as features go Pro OEM has all the same features as the Pro retail version does. I went with OEM because it was cheaper. I got "a" DVD and a small pamphlet instead of a more detailed manual. Oh and the sticker with the product code to put on the PC case.

theog · 26 Jul 2010

Have a read:
A "Must Read" for OEM license users

Petey7 · 26 Jul 2010

Louisaz said:

Thanks for that very helpful reply -- which begs a second question: Would there be any reason WHY I would want to have BOTH 32 and 64-bit versions?

The only reason I got the retail copy was because I got the pre-order deal where I got both for $100, not to mention I used an old Best Buy gift card I found in my closet, so it was actually a little less out of my bank account than that even after tax and shipping. The main reason you would want both is to have a choice between the two, like if you were upgrading a computer whose parts didn't all have x64 drivers, but you could later install x64 if those drivers became available or you replaced that piece of hardware.

alphanumeric said:

I got a DVD and a small pamphlet instead of a more detailed manual.

I wouldn't call what I got with mine a manual. It just had some basic info on upgrading and mentioned a few of the new features.

Louisaz · 26 Jul 2010

Let's see if I have this:
1. Operationally, there is no difference between the retail "full" version and the OEM for PC builders.
2. Both version come with a disk and user key.
3. The OEM version can only be loaded into a single machine and not loaded onto other machines [it's wedded to that one machine]; the full retail version can be loaded onto multiple machines, but only one machine can run the full retail licensed version at a time.
4. The OEM version has a disc and small pamphlet and the retail version has more complete documentation.

If that's so, I think I'll opt for the OEM version and -- roll the dice.

Thanks,

Louis