Which OS to use?

[acctingman]

I'm building a new rig (with the help of a friend who knows what he's doing) and I had a question about the OS

I want Windows 7, but I'm not sure which one to get? Do I have to buy a "full" version since this is a new build? The $99 64 bit version isn't a "full" version is it?

I have a full copy of Vista at home. Could I install that on the new build then use the $99 version of W7 (which I'm assuming is just an upgrade?)

Sorry, it's been so long since I've read on all this PC building

 

[Dahak]

1) For a new build you can go with oem/system builders, but its tied to that machine
2) Full which allows you to move the license across machines. ie, build one machine now, 2 years build another to replace machine 1, can use same license
3) Upgrade, uses the vista license and then upgrade to 7, both license are tied up meaning per the terms you could not install vista on another machine

mind you, the terms have not stopped people before.

 

[acctingman]

So, cheapest thing for me to do is the OEM version?

I'm ok with it being tied to the one maching.

 

[Steltek]

So, cheapest thing for me to do is the OEM version?

I'm ok with it being tied to the one machine.

Yes. Generally speaking, OEM and/or system builder versions are cheaper as Microsoft doesn't provide product support like with retail versions (something you'll probably never miss). Just make sure you purchase from a reputable seller so you don't end up with a pirated copy.

Probably the cheapest option you will find is to pick up an OEM copy of Windows 7 Home Premium SP1. If your new computer is a 64 bit machine, make sure to get the 64-bit media version. Though the product keys are interchangeable between 32 and 64 bit, you might as well get the proper install media with integrated SP1 so you don't have to waste time downloading a 64-bit ISO.

 

[SimMike2]

You could go with the upgrade version and do the double install trick. Basically you clean install it the first time without entering the install key. After install and it is fully updated, which might take a couple of reboots, put the upgrade disk back in and reinstall, this time entering the CD key. The upgrade version is more flexible than the OEM version because it isn't tied to one particular computer.

 

[tweakboy]

You need to make sure you get 64 bit version,, or else your RAM wont show above 3.2GB ......gl

 

[JackMDS]

If you do not have any specific needs use the Win 7 Home Premium OEM x64.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832116986

Otherwise be specific with your need. Give advice that might be costly or problematic without knowing what it is that you do with the computer is rather "ridiculous".

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/compare

 

[Kathi201]

Try to go through with OEM version....because o personally use this its very easy and take less cost as compared to others.
Thanks