How is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) version of Windows different from its Retail version?

 

Now, What’s different in the Retail version?

windows 8.1 pro retail version
Windows 8.1 Pro retail version

It’s the opposite as the OEM version. I would sum up the difference by mentioning the contrasting points:

♦ You won’t observe the manufacturer’s logo in the retail version.

♦ It’s expensive than the OEM version. For example, in the case of good deals, if Windows OEM version is priced at $99 then the retail version can be expected to be nearly $200.

♦ It comes with free support from Microsoft. So, you can call the Microsoft support officials regarding your issues at no service charges.

♦ User-end activation is needed. You will have to manually activate by the serial key provided in your retail copy.

♦ It can be used as an upgrade installation when you have the previous version installed.

♦ It’s a better deal if you are an end-user (Not system maker). This is because you have both the 32-bit and 64-bit architectures available on your retail copy.

♦ Can be easily transferred between different system builds.

♦ The license agreement and support agreement is between you and Microsoft.

So, these are the differences between the OEM version and the retail version of Windows. These difference matter a lot while buying a copy of Windows. If you are low on budget, you should go for the OEM version but if you have sufficient funds on your account, then you should consider the retail version over the OEM version.

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