Windows 7: Should I buy Windows 7 upgrade or full?

I am building a new desktop so I will need an operating system. For the new desktop the full version of Windows 7 will work just fine. Question: Can I use Windows 7 full to upgrade Vista on my laptop as well? Please help.

The MS EULA is specific on this point ... One machine at a time per key... If you want to stay legal, you will need to purchace a 2nd copy, or, an MSDN/TechConnect subscription... I suggest the later..

You don't need the full version on a new machine. Install w/o a key. Upgrade that version with a key. Perfectly legal and built-in by M$.

The OP will still need to purchase a second key to activate the 2nd copy of Windows 7.... Trust me on this one ... MS is not in the habit of handing out copies of their latest OS .... unless you're going to the launch event that is...

You can do both "Upgrade or Clean install" with the upgrade version.(cheaper in Cost)
depends on what you want to do.... you can also upgrade with the full version or clean install - it simply cost more.
True as stated earlier - you only use the KEY for one Machine - legally. but The upgrade version will do both and it's cheaper ... I buy the UPGRADE Version. If you want to "Clean Install" when ask DO NOT INSERT A KEY, you have 30 days plus 3 -rearms or 120 days to test... then insert the DVD and when ask click UPGRADE - when ask insert the KEY. Then your LEGAL.

Will I be able to "upgrade" from 7100 RC to the retail version (with a key) using the upgrade version?

It wont be a clean in place upgrade ... you will be left with a windows.old folder, but it will install ok...

Tks. I thought they would make me buy the full version unless I had something else rather than the RC installed, to upgrade from (like Vista)

You can buy the Family pack too:



Windows Anytime Upgrade and Family Pack Pricing - Windows 7 Team Blog

Great hint, thanks a lot