XP Pro versions

[Marc]

I am planning on buying XP Pro. I've noticed that there is
a large price discrepancy with E85-01794 (XP Pro OEM with
SP1) and E85-00086 (XP Pro OEM) vs non oem.

What, exactly, is the difference between these two OEMS
and other versions, and how would these differences impact
me? It's only going on one computer.

I've been researching this on the net and have yet to find
anyone giving a straight answer to 'why would I buy a $400
version of XP Pro when I can buy it for $150?'

Thank you,

Marc

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Marc;
OEM has several limitations.
These are some of the big ones.
Full install only, no upgrade capability.
No Microsoft support, support, if any, from seller only.
Normally can not be transferred to another computer regardless the
condition of the original computer.
Microsoft will replace damaged retail CDs, never heard of an OEM doing
so except when very new.
Read the EULA for further details.

A good way to look at OEM, ignore the fact it is ultimately made by
Microsoft, that is not relevant.
Treat OEM as if it was manufactured, packaged and sold by the seller
The only support you get from Microsoft is the Windows Updates and
other free support options such as these newsgroups.
If there is a problem, forget about contacting Microsoft except in
rare circumstances, then the article will make that clear.

Many people do well with OEM, others regret the choice when they find
the differences, usually at a bad time.
I personally like to stay far away from OEM.

 

[Chris]

From my researching and reading:

1. OEM does not include any support, while the full version allow some
number of phone support.
2. OEM is for a specific PC only. If that machine fries you will not be able
to install on a replacement.
3. It is not clear if there will be upgrade limitations to XP replacement in
the future with the OEM version

 

[Marc]

Thank you Jupiter and Chris for your quick response.

I can understand why someone would want to steer clear of
oem for the reasons you both stated.

Personally, I'm ok with the drawbacks you've mentioned. If
my computer fries, the next computer I get will have XP
Pro when I buy it. As long as I can get updates, and
nothing is crippled, I am happy.

You've both helped a great deal, thank you both again,

Marc

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Marc;
Like a lot of things it is not bad once you are informed.
Often people stop at the cheaper price without asking "Why"
And of course some salesmen may "forget" or even not be aware of these
limitations.

Enjoy your savings.

 

[Frank]

Marc wrote:

| I am planning on buying XP Pro. I've noticed that there is
| a large price discrepancy with E85-01794 (XP Pro OEM with
| SP1) and E85-00086 (XP Pro OEM) vs non oem.
|
| What, exactly, is the difference between these two OEMS
| and other versions, and how would these differences impact
| me? It's only going on one computer.
|
| I've been researching this on the net and have yet to find
| anyone giving a straight answer to 'why would I buy a $400
| version of XP Pro when I can buy it for $150?'
|
| Thank you,
|
| Marc

I have been using OEM versions of Windows since W95. I
see no real drawback, except that you cannot call MS or
upgrade from another qualified OS. Anything else is hearsay
and conjecture. About every four months I upgrade my PC,
to the point that I need to reactivate. No problem whatsoever.
There are problems with preinstalled OEM's.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Pleas be specific.
"Anything else is hearsay and conjecture." implies EVERYTHING except
what you specifically stated may not be true.
Please back up the statement with an authoritative source.
For example try to get a replacement OEM CD from Microsoft..."hearsay
and conjecture" Try it!
Read the EULA for a start, you will likely be surprised.

 

[Lorne Smith]

There's enough "heresay & conjecture" just trying to get MS to answer the
blasted phone!

Lorne