Difference between OEM OS and non-OEM?

I've alway bought standard Windows OSes-both Upgrade and Full Edition. However, I've noticed there is a slightly cheaper version than even the Upgrade Editions, known as OEM copies. What is the difference between getting an OEM copy and a standard copy of Windows? Will I notice a difference in the install process?

I'd just like to save a little money on OSes, but I've heard all kinds of crazy stories about buying licenses and missing features, and I though the bast place to find the truth would be here.

 

OEM requires hardware be purchaed with it, does not contain the retail box, or manual (usually). As well, you have no warranty support options. Some (all?) OEM versions will not upgrade a previous OS.

 

Although technically OEM software requires a hardware purchase of some sort, a lot of retailers will sell you an OEM copy of Windows on it's own without any other purchase.

An OEM copy cannot be used to upgrade any previous version of Windows.

 

I won't need it to upgrade. It is a "full" installation on it's own right (minus that extra fluff of course)? I feel competent enough that I have never used any of the features they strip anyway, so I should just get 'em like that from now on? (I'm just a home user, btw)

 

The OEM disk is not a stripped down version of the OS. The operating system you install with an OEM installation disk is the same as the one installed from a retail disk.

 

You guys kick ass. Thanks for the help.

 

I thought you said kick. Are you single?


You're welcome.