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#11
Microsoft support is available for retail versions only, but OEM versions have to be supported by the manufacturer of the laptop. Microsoft does not support the OEM versions. That is the reason why they are cheap compared to retail versions.
If you think you don't need Microsoft support then you better go with OEM route. I myself, prefer OEM as I never needed Microsoft support. (with the excellent support available from forums like Windows Seven Forums and other help from internet )