Win Vista to Win7 ?

[Broomba37]

I am running Vista 32 bit and would like to know can I buy and choose the Custom install on the Win 7 Home Prem for a 64 bit OS, or do I need to shell out the $200 for the non-upgrade software?

[Ualaa]

I believe they only allow an upgrade to the equivalent version of what you already have.

However, an OEM purchase is quite a bit cheaper then the retail box.
OEM is just the dvd and a code, no retail box.
But also roughly half the price.

Technically, computer stores are only supposed to sell OEM software with a hardware sale.
But that doesn't mean you need to buy a whole system.
Even a single component is fine.
And most of the computer stores (don't go to a huge store chain) will happily sell you software OEM by itself.

My computer store charges...
$219 for Home Premium Retail.
$329 for Professional Retail.
$329 for Ultimate Retail.

And...
$119 for Home Premium OEM.
$149 for Professional OEM.
$209 for Ultimate OEM.

All versions are 64-Bit, and all prices are in Canadian dollars.
If you're curious, the store is Memory Express Computer Products Inc. - Canada's Source for Computers, Laptops, Monitors & more...

[necrimus]

If you are going to the same version (i.e. premium to premium) you can use the upgrade for a clean install. Just boot to the DVD and do a custom install. At some point it will ask for your Vista disc. Just put it in and you are set. When you buy Windows 7 (or Vista for that matter) you have a license for both 32 & 64 bit versions. Just be sure to specify when you order which disc you want.

[Zzyzxx71]

If whatever you choose to buy comes anywhere near the $250-$300 mark, you may be interested in a technet plus subscription.

Full Version Software Evaluation & Technical Resources | TechNet Plus

The initial price is $349, but there are valid promotion codes all over the net. Just google "technet promo code". I got mine for $271.

Pro: The software offered there is listed as "for evaluation", but the keys/software never expire. They offer every version of every OS, up to 10 keys per OS, and up to 10 uses per key (yes that's 100 installs). Also available is the office suite and every server platform available, including the boutique servers (GP, etc). I work in the business so in theory my whole house is a "lab".

Con: It's $250/year to keep the subscription up.

Microsoft states this is for evaluation and developers, but are aware that people are using it for home use, and off the record have stated they would prefer people just buy the subscription than use pirated versions of the software available.

Regarding going from vista32 to W7x64, you'll need a fresh install. Personally I don't see any reason to ever install a 32 bit OS anywhere ever again.

[Tim]

I'm a big fan of MSDN subscriptions myself. I have one, its a slightly different type, but it basically is the same thing in that it offers you pretty much all Microsoft software for a single price.

But for me, the big factor to change between Vista32 and Windows7 64 is the ability to use >3.5 gigs of RAM. A 64bit OS is a must.

[ebony]

students get it for $29.99

http://www.win741.com/

[Zzyzxx71]

Originally Posted by ebony

students get it for $29.99

Students get Windows 7 for $29.99 - Sweet Deal! Hurry - Get it Today

"They're showing a movie and I'm hoping for Sparticus" <-- rofl.