Cheap Windows 8

[VectraMan]

I'm guessing that as you don't get a product code until you run the install on a machine you're upgrading, that's all the check they need, and future reinstalls won't be an issue.

I have my backup DVDs now - 32 and 64 bit in a cardboard sleeve, but no code stickers.

[d000hg]

You get the key the moment you place the order, after the utility app determines your PC is compatible but before the download is done... you get an email with the key and a download link in case you need it again.

[centurian]

So you get the key before you have actually commenced the upgrade. I might order the upgrade this weekend before the deadline, but do the upgrade sometime in Feb.

[Sysman]

I have my backup DVDs now - 32 and 64 bit in a cardboard sleeve, but no code stickers.

The upgrade box you can buy in the shops comes with 32 and 64 bit DVD's in cardboard sleeves, and a credit card sized bit of plasticky cardboard with the key stuck on. This is not designed to peel off and stick on your system. The product key is much more legible than the old style stickers.

Windows install media, product keys, and activation through the ages - need to scroll down to see the relevant bit

[d000hg]

So you get the key before you have actually commenced the upgrade. I might order the upgrade this weekend before the deadline, but do the upgrade sometime in Feb.

Yeah. You have to run the install/upgrade assistant tool but this is only a few Mb. You can bail after ordering and checking you have the email.

[AtW]

Smart thing to do is this:

1) buy cheap upgrade to tulipy Win 8 now but never install it
2) wait until they release Win 9 that hopefully will be good
3) get cheap upgrade to Win 9 from Win 8

[d000hg]

All the tech reviews say W8 is good and solid if you can live with or ignore Metro... a better OS than W7 with an ugly face.

My 30min using W8 were fine, even Metro was hardly that bad. But then I tried a W8 slate and when I switched to desktop I couldn't get back out... I tried tapping in corners and nothing happened.

[AtW]

All the tech reviews say W8 is good and solid if you can live with or ignore Metro... a better OS than W7 with an ugly face.

There are some nice kernel improvements, however the face is so ugly not even 10 pints would help...

I blame Sinofsky - he should have been fired on the spot when he proposed Ribbon bulltulip

[centurian]

All the tech reviews say W8 is good and solid if you can live with or ignore Metro... a better OS than W7 with an ugly face.

From looking at RC's etc. I got the impression it basically was W7 with a tablet-y UI.

[centurian]

Smart thing to do is this:

1) buy cheap upgrade to tulipy Win 8 now but never install it
2) wait until they release Win 9 that hopefully will be good
3) get cheap upgrade to Win 9 from Win 8

Probably a waste - as the W8 upgrade is from any previous OS - all the way back to XP - for the same price.

W9 will probably be something similar.