Do I need an optical drive?

[Doctorfrozo]

Hello LTT forums!

 

I'm working on a new build and I'm pretty sure I need an optical drive for installing the OS. 

 

If so, what optical drive should i get?. Other than installing the OS I will rarely (if ever) use the optical drive. I don't need anything special and im on a budget.

 

here is the build if you are curious http://pcpartpicker.com/p/TdHZjX

 

Thanks!

[niofalpha]

You don't need one. Just put it on a USB. If you do end up needing one go for a USB Optical Drive.

[JoaoPRSousa]

If you buy a disk with the OS, yes.

 

If you buy a key for the OS, no.

[MikeTz]

Just use a USB for it?

[ZetZet]

I have not used optical drive in years so, no. Installing OS with usb stick is superior.

[Doctorfrozo]

no you dont need an optical drive you can use a usb stick

Well that definitely makes things easier. Link to where to get one?

[NumLock21]

Do you have another computer at home? If so then no, you don't need a optical drive. If not, then yes you will need a optical drive. For your other computer, if it has a optical drive, then use that to create a USB install drive from by copying the Windows 8 setup files from the Installation DVD. Now if that other computer does not have a optical drive then you'll have to download it, which means you're basically wasting your time by downloading the exact same files that's already on the disc.

A optical drive is like $14 bucks. It'll make your life a lot easier.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer  ($13.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $13.99
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-12-30 16:16 EST-0500

[Doctorfrozo]

when you get your product key enter it into microsofts website and select the usb you want the OS on

Ooooooooooohhh, ok. thanks. I thought they sold it preinstalled on usb sticks, haha