New Build - What OS to go with?

[james1001]

So I have already received all parts except for the GPU. The reason I went with the CPU and Motherboard was the price. I was able to get them for less than anywhere online even with a bundled deal. I had to pick them up in the store but it was worth saving $120+. The PSU was also $80 instead of $139. So, my main question now is if anyone else has for instance, the same motherboard and if so, have they used Windows 7 Ultimate or 8.1 Pro? If so, which resulted in compatibility issues, performance increase or decrease, etc. Even though there is a "Windows 8.1 Ready" sticker on the motherboard box, you never know.

 

I realize that a lot of people will suggest that I should have gone with this part over that part, etc. but for the price.. it was a good deal and it has been a very long time since I have built a new box so this is a monster compared to what I have. Other priorities had to come first and it is what it is.

 

Any info. or suggestions regarding the OS would be greatly appreciated.

 

 

The build (minus the GPU).

 

http://pcpartpicker.com/p/xmt84D

 

 

Edit: Also, if 8.1 is the way to go, should I go w/ Pro or just stick with 8.1. Also, OEM or Retail? I have read there are slight differences this time around but with everything out there.. can't be completely sure of anything.

 

Thanks all,

 

James

[Nineshadow]

Get whichever Windows version is cheaper (Windows 8 vs 7)

It doesn't really matter too much.

[chicksoup]

dude you're fine with any OS. in my experience windows 8 and 8.1 are faster than windows 7

[dizmo]

I'd go with the newest. Because, why not?

Windows 8 has been out for a good while now. I highly doubt there are compatibility issues.

[elan2468]

https://www.g2a.com/windows-8-professional-32-64-bit-cd-key-global.html Get this its around 30$ and its amazing completely legit and i am using it myself

[james1001]

When it usually looks too good to be true..... you know?

[elan2468]

When it usually looks too good to be true..... you know?

? what you mean ask most ppl on the forum its legit

[james1001]

I've just read about far too many similar sites, etc. Unless I receive the actual media along with the two separate keys for installation/activation, the only electronic download that would most likely be trustworthy would be from Microsoft, unfortunately. I am doing a clean install for a new box with x64. But I guess there are places to get keys that activate the .iso files but still.. can't blame someone for being cautious.

[james1001]

Appreciate the links. Yeah.. that is unfortunately one thing I can't predict is a possible motherboard failure, etc. I'm sure there has to be a way even with OEM to contact Microsoft if that were to happen and resolve the issue with either OEM version. Or at least I would hope so lol. It's actually not just a gaming setup but also for work so CAD, etc. will be installed and a bit of Video editing and digital surveillance. So with it being for business as well as home, I thought investing in Pro Retail or just 8.1 Retail would be better than OEM.

 

The third link you posted, is that OEM or Retail for just 8.1? I was looking and didn't see OEM regarding that one.

 

But at least I have a better idea as I already have a Win 7 Ultimate box (six year old box) but it will be in use as-is since it is setup with proprietary software. From what I've read, 8.1 seems to be the best way to go (if you filter out all the "I hate tiles, metro, no start button") complaints which make up the vast majority of hate towards the OS itself.

 

Thanks for the suggestions everyone, it was much appreciated.