Difference between these Versions of Windows 7?
So I’ve decided to upgrade from Vista to W7. I looked at all the differences between Home Basic, Premium, Pro and Ultimate, and I decided to go with Pro. I see an OEM version ($135) and Retail version ($199). I assume OEM means I can install it on one computer and retail lets me install it on several.
While reading up on the differences, I see the OEM version says, “Version: Professional” and the Retail version says, “Version: Upgrade”. What does this mean exactly? Does the retail version let me just put in the disc and upgrade right to W7? Whereas the OEM version, I’d have to format, then do a clean install of W7? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!
**OEM** – http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116758&cm_re=windows_7_pro-_-32-116-758-_-Product
**RETAIL** – http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116714&cm_re=windows_7_pro-_-32-116-714-_-Product
Retail can be uninstalled and reinstalled.
OEM can only be installed once (this is what you get pre-installed on ready built PC’s)
OEM tends to be more Stable though.
there is no such thing as ‘windows 7 upgrade’ they weren’t allowed to because of competition laws, if you upgraded, that would keep Internet Explorer (which is not allowed to be packed with the OS anymore).
the term ‘upgrade’ in these cases means you get a voucher for free windows 7. this would be a new disk to install from BIOS. the transition doesn’t work in the same way as XP -> Vista or 98 -> 2000(or ME) you wouldn’t need any operating system at all.
Gaming computer/rig build – Intel Core í7 965 Extreme, Rampage II Extreme, GTX 295..
