Windows is one of the most popular operating systems for games and work tasks. When you buy a PC or laptop computer it’s not always installed. In those cases users have to buy OEM or Retail Windows licenses to make the most out of the operating system experience. If you don’t have a license, Windows will show a watermark on the desktop screen.
Buying OEM or Retail Windows licenses for domestic use is the alternative for PCs and laptops with no operating system. Both licenses have advantages and disadvantages and you should learn about them before choosing.
OEM or Retail Windows licenses features
Original Equipment Manufacturer licenses or OEM are made for devices manufacturers. Microsoft sells them for 12 to 25 Euros depending on the Windows version (Home or Pro). The license is linked to the hardware in the first installation. In case you make a major hardware update like processor or graphic card, you may need to reactivate it. But if you change the motherboard you will have to buy a new one because Microsft understands that you changed your PC completely.
The OEM license is the best option for PCs that you won’t be updating in hardware soon. It’s also a great option in terms of economy because an official license Microsoft Windows Home is around 145 Euros.
The differences between Retail and OEM licenses for Windows operating system are also related to features and price. A Retail version is sold directly to a final user from the official website. It can also be sold by authorized distributors. The price of Home is 145 Euros and the Windows Pro version costs 159 Euros.
It’s a big price difference, but it also comes with great advantages in terms of functionality. The Retail version is for the user, not for the device. You can use it in different devices after removing the previous link. It’s the best option for those who update hardware regularly.
In case you experience a technical issue, you can contact Microsoft support directly to solve it. It’s not an option available for OEM license users because the technical responsible is the manufacturer of the laptop.
Is it worth to buy a Retail licence?
If you work in a company that really requires technical support, a Retail license is very useful. But other everyday users won’t really have a need for it. Even if you change your PC or laptop frequently, it’s cheaper to buy OEM licenses than a Retail one. Taking these into consideration, you may find OEM Windows licenses more useful than Retail ones. It’s a matter of preferences.
With the OEM license installed in your hardware, you can start experiencing Windows without almost any restriction. The user experience is similar and you just need to focus on setting your PC according to your own liking. Then, whenever you decide to change the motherboard, you can go and buy a new OEM license to activate your new device without restrictions. Windows licenses differences may help you to understand which suits you better.