WINDOWS XP home edition OEM
 

SHould i buy xp home OEM? Whats the difference between OEM an retail?

OEM is probably just a CD key from Dell or something. Read about specifically what you're getting. Sometimes no media is included, sometimes burned media is included, sometimes no manual is included. I think the bare minimum they can sell is the CD key with certificate of authenticity (or they could just sell the media, maybe...but that'd just be dumb).

What's the price difference between OEM and retail?

OEM's usually cheaper

there's really no reason to not get OEM. I mean, with retail you get a fairly worthless manual and a box, which is nice, but not worth the extra $100 or so it'll probably run you. OEM software wise is the exact same thing, but they usually just include the cd and cd key (and a certificate of authenticity, i think). I always buy OEM now, when possible. Just make sure you're buying a real copy and not a fake. They do exist in the US. Usually trying to buy through pricewatch will get you a damn good price on the software and a decent seller. With that said, get xp pro, not home. If you ever want to do some playing with your computer, home is worthless (and the fact that you're here probably means you intend to play with it at some point).

so.....if i buy the xp pro upgrade....does that mean i must have a previous windows installed in my computer?

Yes.
I'd just go with the Professional OEM version of the OS.

but xp home is cheaper.....should i just go with home than professional??

Its really your needs, if you are a power user or tweaker or even think you ever will be go with pro if not home will fit you well

i got stuck on the word buy? :confused:

well.......home is cheaper ....and money is an issue....i may just tweak alittle bit....so u still think i should get pro? I will probably play games a lot so.......im leaning towards home cause its cheaper....what do u guys think?