Windows 7: Windows 7 Pro "builders"?

Chips · 16 May 2012

I'm getting a new custom built rig so can someone tell me, other than price what's the difference between the "builders edition" and the "full edition"? Is it just a lack of fancy packaging?

BrightBlessings · 16 May 2012

Have a read of this. It may be of help to you.

Is it OK to use OEM Windows on your own PC? Don't ask Microsoft | ZDNet

Chips · 16 May 2012

Holy cow! If I've got the gist of half that legal babble it's a case of you can use it for personal use but you're not supposed to? Exactly the same program but made for dealers to install then sell the computer on? But how the hell are MS gonna know who's using the computer after its built?! In other words, it's a loophole in the rules that MS hasn't got a hope in hell of enforcing?

ignatzatsonic · 16 May 2012

PCs with OEM installed are supposed to be for resale to the public, not for home builders.

MS apparently does not enforce that restriction much if at all.

Why do you need Professional rather than Home Premium?

OEM is also restricted to one motherboard, so you may be better off with a retail version anyway, if you envision changing motherboards.

Chips · 16 May 2012

I've got a lot of XP games.

logicearth · 16 May 2012

So? What does XP games have to do with it? Are you thinking of XP Mode? If so that is not suited for games.

Chips · 16 May 2012

Yep, XP Mode, and the bloke at the local PC World said it was good for games. Oh well, looks like I'll have to buy an old copy of XP and dual boot.

rraod · 16 May 2012

If you wants to use XP for games then it is better to use a dual boot system rather than going for XP mode.

XP mode will add an extra layer through the base operating system and will be slow. Also some games may not work.

pparks1 · 16 May 2012

Chips: In addition, OEM licensing means that you cannot call Microsoft for support with the product in the event that you need assistance. They will only provide assistance with the Retail product. With an OEM copy, you are intended to call the PC maker for help with the OS.

Very simple games can run under XP Mode, but not anything that is graphically intensive in any way. This is true for pretty much any virtualization software since they all emulate pretty generic low-end video card chipsets.

Hopalong X · 16 May 2012

I would go with a full retail version of Win 7 Pro.

I didn't realize the differences in the OEM version and bought it two years ago. I saved money but the limitations are annoying.
Of course that was before I found sevenforums to ask the question you have.

I also have a retail version of XP and set up dual boot for my XP games as you wish to do.
Virtual XP did not work well. Terrible graphics as already mentioned by others.

Windows 7: Windows 7 Pro "builders"?

Windows 7 Pro "builders"? problems?