Cheap source for windows 8 or 7 OS

[square_wave]

I just finished making myself an HTPC based on the AMD A8 processor. I need to pick up an OS now. Should I go with Windows 8 or 7 ? What is a cheap source for these ? I can see online prices all above 5k.

And, if you are running a simple htpc on wired network, what relevance do the following have ?

32 bit,
64 bit,
home basic,
professional etc

 

[reignofchaos]

You'll need to use some third party addons like start8/classic shell to get windows 8 into a usable shape. The tile interface is absolutely rubbish.

As for windows 7, home basic or home premium will do the job for you. The only major difference between the two is aero glass ui and the windows media center application which is necessary only if you intent to install a tv tuner.

Regarding prices, yes those are the lowest prices you'll find - unless you have an annual msdn subscription.

 

[raj_ch2002]

why windows? if your requirement is just for watching movies, then better install XBMC live boot CD...free and does the job.

 

[IndianEars]

reignofchaos

You'll need to use some third party addons like start8/classic shell

Thanks for the pointers.

I have been a Win8.1 user for months, but sometimes still miss the classic menu.

Any recommendation or Pros & cons between Start8 & Classic Shell ?

 

[reignofchaos]

Thanks for the pointers.

I have been a Win8.1 user for months, but sometimes still miss the classic menu.

Any recommendation or Pros & cons between Start8 & Classic Shell ?

Not much to choose between both - either will do the job and get the old start menu back. I use classic shell as it is free while start8 is paid with a 15 day evaluation period.

 

[hydra]

To add to what the others have said, you'll need the 64bit version to use RAM above 3GB. You can use a 4GB stick with the 32bit version, but it will detect only 3.XXGB RAM.

 

[baijuxavior]

I have used both Win 7 and 8 for my HTPC and finally settled for Win 8 for the following reasons:

1. Fast booting. Just 10-15 seconds to boot into xbmc using the fast boot option. No need to go for expensive SSDs.

2. The start screen actually works as a launch point from which you can select the media players you want using a remote control.

In both OS, you can disable the desktop from loading and directly boot into XBMC. This reduces boot time considerably.

I bought Win 8 during the introductory offer period for 2K.

 

[Rockfella]

This is coming from you so I will try windows 8.1 on my HTPC now. Thanks.

I have used both Win 7 and 8 for my HTPC and finally settled for Win 8 for the following reasons:

1. Fast booting. Just 10-15 seconds to boot into xbmc using the fast boot option. No need to go for expensive SSDs.

2. The start screen actually works as a launch point from which you can select the media players you want using a remote control.

In both OS, you can disable the desktop from loading and directly boot into XBMC. This reduces boot time considerably.

I bought Win 8 during the introductory offer period for 2K.

 

[square_wave]

Thanks guys. Is there any benefit in having windows 8 over 7 ?
My use : HTPC, Ripping cds, misc activities like skype etc..
Note : I wont be using this for playing music.