Windows 7 OEM prices unveiled (Here's a hint, cheaper than full retail)
The company typically sells a retail boxed version of Windows which users can install on nearly any computer, and the license can be transferred from one computer to another if, for example, your computer breaks down and you buy a replacement.
But you can also pick up an OEM license that's designed for system builders. These OEM copies offer most of the features found in a full retail version, but the license can't be transferred. Once it's installed on a computer and activated, it's locked to that hardware. You won't get any support, and you'll have to perform a clean install, not an upgrade. The upshot is that OEM copies of Windows are typically cheaper.
Newegg has begun taking pre-orders for Windows 7 OEM licenses, and they're significantly cheaper than the full retail versions. In fact, they're even cheaper than the upgrade editions of Windows 7. Windows 7 Home Premium OEM will set you back $110, while Professional costs $140 and Ultimate will run you $190. That's compared with $200, $300, and $320 respectively for the full retail versions.
Newegg is also offering a few bucks off of each OEM license for customers who place orders by October 20th. Windows 7 will be officially launched on October 22nd.
[via Ars Technica]
