Windows key

[Clos85]

Where do people get legit windows key . I really would like not to spend 130 bucks but I’m super skeptical of the ones that cost 30 bucks 

[Donut417]

33 minutes ago, Clos85 said:

Where do people get legit windows key . I really would like not to spend 130 bucks but I’m super skeptical of the ones that cost 30 bucks 

You might find OEM keys for cheaper, but the $130 keys are the legit ones. OEM keys are intended to be sold to system builders. The only real difference between the OEM and Retail keys are Retail keys get full Microsoft support where OEM keys the OEM is suppose to provide support. Also technically speaking OEM keys are tied to your hardware, specifically the motherboard BUT Microsoft has taken a very relaxed attitude over the last few years. I have heard many people getting OEM keys transferred to different hardware. But your milage might vary. 

[Alan G]

10 hours ago, Clos85 said:

Where do people get legit windows key . I really would like not to spend 130 bucks but I’m super skeptical of the ones that cost 30 bucks 

Your Windows key is good for life if you purchase the full key from Microsoft.  My oldest workstation has had the same key for 12 years now and the cost per year becomes small.  I think I had to call Microsoft once when I was migrating to a new PC as there was a glitch but that was fixed right away.

[Clos85]

If they migrate and go with the user , how does it work if you had a laptop . Will it migrate? And will you not be able to use the laptop anymore ?

[Donut417]

20 minutes ago, Clos85 said:

If they migrate and go with the user , how does it work if you had a laptop . Will it migrate? And will you not be able to use the laptop anymore ?

A key can only be activated on one machine at a time. Retail keys can move easily. OEM keys Ive heard they generally can be moved, but I think the official stance is they are locked to the motherboard of the machine you install it on. BUT like I stated, many have been able to move those keys as well. 

 

Retail keys are the more expensive ones. I think OEM keys go for around $80, at least last I checked. 

[LogicalDrm]

You want legit, but don't want to pay legit price? All keys that are under $90 are from volume packs or something equally sketchy or worse. Legit OEM price for Home version used to be $90 and $120 for Pro. With retail prices being  $150 for home and $200 for Pro. Considering you will be using it daily and for at least 2-3 years, proce per boot is quite low. Most of your other components will cost more or same, and you will need to replace them sooner.

[Alan G]

4 hours ago, LogicalDrm said:

Y. Considering you will be using it daily and for at least 2-3 years, proce per boot is quite low. Most of your other components will cost more or same, and you will need to replace them sooner.

In addition a genuine Microsoft key is good way past the life of your machine and can be easily transferred to a new build when the time comes (I'm on the third build with the same Pro key so the usage cost is probably under a $0.01 US per day right now.