Building my first computer

[MKBeginner]

Hi I am building my first computer but im a bit stuck on the operating system, I want to get windows of course but I wont have a CD/DVD drive so im a little confused on what to buy (windows 8) and how to install it, when it comes to the hardware im good I know what I need to do and how to do it, but the initial installation of the operating system is confusing me somewhat. what I am confused with is what version of windows to buy and do I get download and install it to a USB stick then load it onto the computer or do I go with DVD installation, but the main problem is what version of windows to buy 8, 8.1, windows 7.
Please Help, Thank you. ps. I am building a gaming rig.
 

[howlyeye]

Well, whatever operating system you choose to use, you can typically choose to run from a disc/drive on startup (after you've set things up in the bios). I had a disc burned with 8.1 already on it, so I just booted my PC up after configuring it, and just booted from the disc.

[BoDyBaG2224]

I don't think you "buy" 8.1 as far as I understand 8.1 is like a service pack.

 

That being said imo, it's preference on whether you want 7 or 8. I mean, in general it's better to go with whats new as that is what will be pushed to developers to develop on (not saying games specifically, but just talking about software in general). That being said you may want to factor in cost, Windows 7 looks to be about 30-50 bucks cheaper then 8 and you'll always be able to upgrade in a few years if money is tight right now.

 

As far as if you want the "basic" or "pro" versions you need to make that determination yourself, I've provided the link that shows the differences between the two. If you need the 3 extra features that "pro" offers and are willing to shell out the additional cost then go for it.

 

Linky:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compare

[MKBeginner]

Thanks Guys/"Girls" You gave me the confidence I needed, was very unsure on buying win8 as Microsoft states its for vista and win7 users (upgrade) but after a bit of research and your comments I've found I can buy it and install from USB with no previous operating system installed.. And to BoDyBaG2224 yes win8.1 is a service pack and is free when you buy win8 and upgrade Haha so that's what I intend to do ill buy win8 from the MS website and get the download to USB boot from that then update to win8.1, thanks again guys great help.

Merry Christmas.