Actual Release versus RTM version

[merlinau]

Hi Folks
Can anyone tell me authoritively whether or not there any SIGNIFICANT differences between the RTM verson and the final 'across the counter' release version?
I have a copy of the RTM version (6.1 Build 7600) that I obtained some months ago, which is actually working perfectly well, although I get some 'nag' screens occasionally that don't really bother me.
Is there a meaningful benefit for me paying out $150 or so to get an 'official' copy, is my first question?
Secondly; can I do an UPDATE of my RTM version to the final (legal) version or do I have to do a clean install?
This is the thing that I want to avoid; you all know the agony of reinstalling all your applications AGAIN that is involved!
Thanks in anticipation
Merlin (South Australia)

 

[smarteyeball]

The biggest significant change between RTM and 'over the counter' is the DVD case.

RTM is the Retail version.

 

[harpua]

The RTM and the retail release are one and the same. No differences, zero, nada, etc. The nag screens are probably asking you to activate your version of windows with a legal purchased key. If you fail to do so, your RTM (same as retail) installation will stop working or go into a reduced functionality mode, eventually. So the answer is you don't have to reinstall anything but you have to get a legal key if you want to legally activate your copy of windows 7.

 

[aem]

The biggest significant change between RTM and 'over the counter' is the DVD case.

RTM is the Retail version.

Do they actually put it in a DVD case, or paper/plastic sleeve? :sarc:

You gotto pay more for the case.