What is the OEM that exist in Windows? How does it differ from the retail version of Windows?

You purchase a new desktop or laptop with Windows operating system pre-installed on it. If you see more detail, it is no different from the purchased copy of Windows separately and installed on your computer. But there are differences.

So far, you may have noticed I'm talking about OEM Windows, that comes with almost all new PCs at the moment, unless you buy one without operating system or have a special love for many Linux distributions.

What is a Windows OEM?

You probably already knowing that the OEM is original equipment for manufacturers. According to Wikipedia, an OEM manufacture hardware or software to be used in the final products of other companies.

Technically, Microsoft is the OEM as comprehensive Windows OS on the PC produced by companies such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, MSI, etc. However, things get confusing when you realize that the original equipment manufacturer of the term is also used for such PC vendors as well.

OEM Windows (System Builder) is not something that comes up in the last few years. Microsoft is shipping the OEM version of Windows for decades. As we have the OEM version for Windows XP, Windows 7 and even the older ones such as Windows 2000, etc.

Concerning software and the use of Windows, OEM and retails is the same. You get all the features of software updates as well as unstoppable.

Like retail, OEM Windows copy is also in the 32-bit version and 64-bit. Although, the 32-bit Windows loses popularity.

So how is the OEM Windows 10 differs from the retail Windows 10?

Stick to the device

OEM windows have a product key that is associated with a specific device. While the retail product key also works on one machine, it can be transferred to the other.

Earlier, in the case of a laptop, OEM product key is written on the bottom of the device. Currently, it is integrated directly into the firmware (BIOS or UEFI) device and used by Windows as needed.

This saves the hassle of changing the device goes ups a couple of times when entering a product key on the system. Also, there is no chance to get the product key differ all the time.

You may have a problem activating the System Builder window if you're upgrading a hard enough like the motherboard. But that doesn't mean you can't upgrade your hardware at all. You can change almost everything except the motherboard because the license key associated with it.

Windows cheaper OEM

The other big difference is the price. Microsoft charges licensing fees lower than the device manufacturer to OEM Windows product key. The reason, device makers buy it in large quantities.

Tech support: what is it?

There is one more reason Microsoft OEM license fee abolished. Microsoft technical support is not available for OEM windows. This means that you can't contact their technical support team to get your questions answered. However, the maker of your PC may have a technical support and online forums are still there.

In addition to manufacturers of laptops and workstations, Windows OEM license key can also be used by professional system builders that configure the PCs to suit the needs of their customers.

Do not upgrade

There is another difference between the full version and the Windows OEM, it cannot be used to upgrade. This means that if you are already running a valid copy of Windows 7 or 8.1 and Windows you buy 10 OEM, you must do a clean install.

How do I get Windows OEM 10?

If you do not intend to buy a new PC, there are other ways to get copies of Windows OEM 10. You can visit e-commerce sites like Amazon and EBay to take a copy of Your System Builder for the project.

Can I get Windows OEM for personal use?

Especially, Windows OEM is meant to be pre-installed by the manufacturer of your PC or on the configuration of the System Builder is intended for resale to customers. Even if you can buy a copy of Windows legal OEM online, there is a lack of information about whether you can afford it as the end user.

For daily users, it is recommended to go to retail windows because there is a lot of uncertainty that was built around what's legal and what's not — all of these thanks to the Microsoft license terms are confusing. Things that has not changed much since ZDNet Ed Bott highlighted the issue in his room is very creditable.

Even if you plan to move forward, you must first determine if you are willing to swap some benefits against the costs offered by the System Builder version of Windows. If you have something to add, please pour your thoughts in the comments.