Upgrade Windows 8.1 Pro to Windows 10 via OEM support
Upgrade Windows 8.1 Pro to Windows 10 via OEM support
I was assembling a new computer while looking to buy Windows. While browsing, I met someone who offered Windows 8.1 Pro OEM for just USD 20. He assured me the key was 100% authentic and could be activated through Microsoft, allowing a smooth upgrade to Windows 10 later. I was surprised because it seemed significantly cheaper than the regular version. My questions were: 1. Is this truly genuine Windows 8.1 Pro at that price? Could it be real? 2. Can I switch to Windows 10 without buying a new key? 3. Should I opt for the free Windows 10 Insider or purchase the 8.1 Pro key first and upgrade? 4. Or wait for an available Windows 10 OEM release? Thank you ahead!
He might have an additional OEM copy of Windows he previously installed on a different machine, but it can't be used on another PC. It wouldn't function properly if there was extra stock from a prior setup. The usual price for Windows is around $100, though you can find keys for roughly $40 on G2A. Upgrading to Win 10 is free.
OEM functions only on the first computer where the software was installed, so make sure to verify that. According to Microsoft, upgrading to Windows 10 should be possible, but in your situation you have an 8.1 OEM desktop and a laptop with retail software, the "upgrade to Windows 10" option shows up only on the laptop, unsure about the reason.
In my country (Indonesia) there are many stores offering Windows 8.1 Pro OEM without COA for $20 and with COA for $40. I inquired about the cheaper option and they confirmed it is authentic, with activation via the internet. That’s puzzling. I also learned that OEM includes the keys on the motherboard—maybe your Windows isn’t fully updated on your PC?
I’ve applied all the updates prior to using the OEM key. I originally had a retail key on that OC for 8.1, and now I’m using it for my laptop. The Windows update alert didn’t show up on my desktop even when I used the retail key.
Whenever you enter a Windows key for any operating system, it checks online to verify it. I believe that.
It seems Microsoft might not see your CD key change, thinking you've already reserved it on a laptop, so it doesn't show up on your PC. Was it real? In Indonesia, it's tough to trust sellers offering software at more than half the original cost—many scams are common.