OEM vs. Retail products? Is there a catch?

Looking at several online vendor sites, full installation software packages of both XP Home and Pro are priced significantly less for the "OEM" version than the retail version....like about half price!

The online vendor sites all claim that "it's the same software, just without all the fancy, expensive packaging and the retailer mark ups" that you shouldn't have to pay for anyway.

Sounds good, but..........I'm a big believer in "if it sounds too good, you'd better watch out!" What, if anything, am I missing?

Anybody have experience with OEM XP full installation software from reputable online vendors like NewEgg or Directron?

Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Texasbobby

 

OEM versions usually are meant to be supplied by a value-added reseller (VAR), and (are supposed to be) already installed in a machine, whether it be software or hardware. In the case of OEM software, the product should be functionally identical to the retail version, but missing some amenites like fancy packaging or printed documentation. In the case of OEM version hardware, you can expect a plain white or brown box, minimal docs, and little or no bundled software. Technical support from the manufacturer in either case may be minimal, or you may be directed to the reseller from whom you purchased for support.

 

Ok will see if I can explain this easily. On Windows XP if you buy the OEM version caompared the retail. you do not get any online help from Microsoft. otherwise the versions are the same. Not sure if you'll get a book with it or not, some places send you one others don't. You can still get all the updates and all from Microsofts site, just no online support. My Windows XP home is an OEM version and I have no problems with it at all. Hope this helps you.

 

The OEM and retail versions of Windows XP software are identical in function, so OEM versions do not have less capabilities than the retail versions. The Retail version comes with a thick manual and access to Microsoft's support professionals and can be purchased separately. The OEM version lacks the manual and you have to pay to talk to Microsoft support and must be purchased with some sort of computer hardware -the qualifying hardware varies from vendor to vendor.

 

I am running an OEM version of XP Pro. Why would you need Microsoft's support when you have all these great folks 'round here?

 

Get the OEM version.
You could die from old age before getting an answer from Microsoft Tech Support.

 

Nothing is stopping you from searching http://support.microsoft.com/

 

Another "Get the OEM version." If you do, get it from New Egg. Great prices and service.