Which Windows 7 to install? OEM or Retail?


  1. Posts : 7
    Vista 64 bit
       #1

    Which Windows 7 to install? OEM or Retail?


    Hello.
    I presently have Windows Vista 64-bit installed on my computer and wish to upgrade to Windows 7. I notice that there are two versions available, OEM or Retail. What is the difference between them. Further,I see that the Retail version comes with both 32-bit and 64-bit discs. Can these be used on seperate computers?
    Thank you in anticipation

    Alan
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 24,479
    Windows 7 Ultimate X64 SP1
       #2

    pushticat said:
    Hello.
    I presently have Windows Vista 64-bit installed on my computer and wish to upgrade to Windows 7. I notice that there are two versions available, OEM or Retail. What is the difference between them. Further,I see that the Retail version comes with both 32-bit and 64-bit discs. Can these be used on seperate computers?
    Thank you in anticipation

    Alan
    The retail and OEM versions are identical in operation. The OEM version has NO Microsoft support however, the OEM (you) are responsible for problems.
    You will have one key in the retail version and only one architecture, 32 or 64 bit can be installed at one time. this give the user a choice.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 26,863
    Windows 11 Pro
       #3

    Also, the OEM version is tied to the computer you install it on. The retail version can be installed later on another computer, but only 1 at a time.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 351
    Windows 7 pro 64bit. (SP1)
       #4

    pushticat said:
    Hello.
    I presently have Windows Vista 64-bit installed on my computer and wish to upgrade to Windows 7. I notice that there are two versions available, OEM or Retail. What is the difference between them. Further,I see that the Retail version comes with both 32-bit and 64-bit discs. Can these be used on seperate computers?
    Thank you in anticipation

    Alan
    Now You have Vista so I recommend retail upgrade version.
    OEM is usually sold with new pc and is tied to that pc and has no microsoft support (only OEM). you can't move oem license to another pc.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 24,479
    Windows 7 Ultimate X64 SP1
       #5

    essenbe said:
    Also, the OEM version is tied to the computer you install it on. The retail version can be installed later on another computer, but only 1 at a time.
    Thanks, I forgot that bit of info....old age.
      My Computer


 

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