Buying the OEM Version Of Vista?
By: Arie Slob
If you started looking into your options of buying a copy of Windows Vista, you've probably run across OEM copies of the software, and wondered if this low-cost option would be the way to go.
There are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the OEM copy of Vista doesn't come with a manual, something you will find in the retail versions. Secondly OEM copies are not eligible for Microsoft support. But maybe the most important restriction is that an OEM license forbids the software from being transferred to a new machine once it is installed on the original machine.
Now, you can save quite handsomely when buying OEM software. For example, a copy of Vista Ultimate OEM sells for $199.99 on Newegg, while the upgrade version sells for around $250.00, saving you $50.00. Compared to a full version for Vista Ultimate you save around $200.00! In the UK I've seen OEM copies of Ultimate sell for around GBP 140 (inc VAT), while the upgrade will set you back around GBP 240.
One thing to keep in mind is that with a retail copy of Vista Ultimate (either upgrade or full version) you qualify for Microsoft's Family discount, where you can buy up to two copies of Vista Home Premium (upgrade) for $49.95. This version normally costs around $150.00, so you get it at one-third of the price! But right now the 'Family Discount' program is only available for US & Canadian users, so if you're not in North America, you could consider an OEM copy instead.
And remember, we do have a Support forum dedicated to Windows Vista on our WindowsBBS support forum!