Yes, you can use a Win 8.1 serial on a Win 8 device.
Yes, you can use a Win 8.1 serial on a Win 8 device.
You're attempting to set up Windows 8 and then upgrade to 8.1, but the 8.1 activation key isn't compatible with Windows 8.
You're questioning the choice... Maybe a simpler option exists.
No you cannot use the Windows 8 serial on a Windows 8.1 install..... BUT! There is a work around: 1) Install Windows 8.1 and use this generic install key: XHQ8N-C3MCJ-RQXB6-WCHYG-C9WKB (please not this is a known generic KMS install key and is not pirated/illegal in anyway) 2) Once you are on the desktop: Go into elevated Command Prompt. Windows Key + X. Then A. - slmgr -ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX (XXXXX is your windows 8 key!) - Check in System Overview. Right click Windows Start button and choose system. - If it is not activated just follow the instructions to activate over the phone. Reboot after doing phone method and it will work! Don't sweat it if the command above didn't work. - Also note, once you activate once with the phone, you won't have to do it again. Usually the phone method is needed if you change a HDD or a SSD. Windows thinks you are installing your single key on multiple machines. As said, don't sweat it. ---------------------- EDIT sorry I just noticed you ment to use the windows 8.1 key with windows 8 sorry but i will keep this here for future reference Edited April 5, 2014 by Altecice