OEM or Retail Windows 11 License: Which One to Choose?

Introduction: Deciding which Windows 11 license to buy can raise questions, especially when comparing the OEM and Retail options. Both licenses allow you to use Windows 11 Pro with all its features, but there are important technical differences in terms of usage, transferability, and support. For example, on the Licendi store, the Windows 11 Pro OEM license costs €24.99 and the Retail €27.99, a minimal price difference of just 3 euros. So the question arises: is it worth saving a few euros with an OEM license or is it better to invest in the Retail one? In this blog, we’ll explore in depth the differences between OEM vs Retail Windows 11 licenses, their pros and cons, practical use cases, and we’ll give you a clear recommendation based on your needs. Let’s dive in!

What is an OEM license for Windows 11?

A Windows 11 OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license is originally intended for PC manufacturers or system builders. Simply put, it’s the license that usually comes pre-installed when you buy a new branded computer, or when you build your own PC using a separately purchased OEM key. Below are its key features:

Hardware binding

The Windows 11 OEM license is tied to the first device it is activated on. This means that once installed and activated on a PC, the key becomes registered to that particular hardware (mainly the motherboard). If you later replace the motherboard or try to use the same key on a different computer, Windows 11 will not allow activation with that license, as per the terms, it is non-transferable to a new device. In other words, the license "dies" with the original device where it was first used.

Lower price

OEM licenses are generally cheaper than Retail ones. Microsoft offers these keys in bulk to manufacturers at lower costs, resulting in a lower final price for the user when purchased through resellers. In many software marketplaces, the price difference is significant. However, currently on legitimate platforms like Licendi, the price gap is very small (€24.99 OEM vs €27.99 Retail), which reduces the traditional economic advantage of OEM licenses. Still, OEM has historically been the go-to option for saving money when installing Windows.

Limited support

Another technical aspect is that OEM licenses do not include direct Microsoft support for the end user. Why? Because they are intended for manufacturers—the idea is that the PC builder or seller provides technical support for the operating system. In practice, if you have Windows 11 OEM and encounter a problem, Microsoft may redirect you to the PC manufacturer (e.g., Dell, HP, etc.) instead of assisting you directly. If you installed the OEM license yourself on a custom-built PC, you are your own support (although you can always look for solutions in forums or Microsoft’s documentation). This detail might not be critical for advanced users, but it does mark a difference from Retail.

Intended use and legality

OEM licenses are intended for new installations. In fact, they do not allow in-place upgrades from a previous version of Windows. For example, if you have Windows 10 Home and want to move to Windows 11 Pro with an OEM key, the correct process is to perform a clean installation of Windows 11 and enter the OEM key during setup or activation. You cannot simply input an OEM key in the upgrade section of Windows 10, as OEMs are not sold as upgrade licenses but as full licenses for systems without OS. As for legality, an OEM license is fully legal as long as it is purchased from an authorized channel. It’s important to buy genuine OEM licenses; for example, ensure the seller provides a certificate of authenticity or invoice. In the European Union, the resale of OEM licenses is legal as long as they come from decommissioned devices or authorized stock – trusted shops like Licendi guarantee that the Windows 11 OEM license is legal and original, despite its low price, and provide documentation with the key.

License perpetuity

Both OEM and Retail are perpetual licenses, meaning a one-time payment and valid for life (they do not expire or require a subscription). Once Windows 11 is activated with a valid OEM key, the operating system remains permanently activated on that PC. Even if you reformat the drive and reinstall Windows 11 on the same machine, activation is usually restored automatically once you go online (as Microsoft remembers the hardware fingerprint), or by re-entering the same key. Important! If you reformat and reinstall, do it on the same hardware; as explained earlier, you cannot use that key on a different PC.

Physical example (COA)

Traditionally, OEM licenses came with a COA sticker (Certificate of Authenticity) that was affixed to the PC chassis and included the product key. Today, many new PCs with Windows 11 no longer come with a visible sticker (the key is stored electronically or in the BIOS), but if you purchase an OEM license on DVD or USB separately, it may come with an authenticity label. This is more common with older OEM versions; for Windows 11, distribution is mostly digital.

In summary, a Windows 11 OEM license is ideal for budget-friendly installations on a single, fixed PC, but it comes with the limitation of not being reusable if you switch machines in the future, and official support falls on the hardware vendor or yourself.

What is a Retail license for Windows 11?

The Retail license (also known as commercial license or Full Packaged Product) is the one Microsoft sells directly to the end user, whether through its official store, electronics retailers, or authorized distributors. It’s the type of license you'd find in a physical box in stores or as a digital key from official websites. Let’s go over its features:

Transferable to another device

This is the key benefit and standout difference. A Windows 11 Pro Retail license can be transferred to another PC in the future. This means if you install Windows 11 Retail on your current computer and a few years later upgrade your system or replace key hardware (e.g., motherboard and CPU), you can reinstall or reactivate Windows 11 on the new hardware using the same Retail license without having to purchase a new key. The only condition is that the license cannot be used on two devices simultaneously; it may only be active on one PC at a time. Microsoft allows you to move the license as long as you deactivate it (or stop using it) on the previous one. In fact, the activation system may detect that the key was used on another machine and prompt you to activate by phone or use the activation troubleshooter to confirm it’s no longer in use elsewhere. It’s a simple process and fully permitted under the Retail license terms. This flexibility to reuse the license makes the small extra investment worth it for many users.

Direct technical support from Microsoft

Unlike OEM, the Retail license entitles you to official Microsoft support. If you experience problems with Windows 11, you can contact Microsoft support and receive assistance, since you are considered the end-user license holder. In practice, this may include help via phone or chat to resolve activation errors, installation issues, and more. Although many users never actually use this support, it’s reassuring to know it’s available as a backup, especially in professional or business environments where formal assistance may be required.

More flexible installation and upgrades

With a Retail license, there are no restrictions when it comes to installation. You can use the same key to upgrade a previous system (for example, if you have Windows 10, you can purchase a Windows 11 Retail license and use it to upgrade, or do a clean installation, whichever you prefer). You can also choose between 32-bit or 64-bit architecture freely with the same Retail key, as both versions are usually included. (For Windows 11, this is not a major issue since it is only distributed in 64-bit officially.) In any case, the Retail license can be used for both upgrades and clean installs. Additionally, it does not include any manufacturer-installed software: if you install Windows 11 Retail from scratch, you'll get a clean system, free from third-party apps or customizations often bundled with OEM systems. This results in less bloatware and a more streamlined Windows experience from the start.

Distribution and contents

If you purchase a physical Windows 11 Pro Retail license, you typically receive a box with a Windows 11 installation USB and a card or leaflet containing the product key. In the past, DVDs were included, but with Windows 11 it’s more common to get a USB or simply a digital key via email if bought online. The Retail box is distinguished by the official logo and design — for example, the Pro version comes in a dark blue box with the Windows 11 logo and the well-known “Bloom” wallpaper on the front, while the Home version features a white background. (Tip: You can include an image here of the physical Windows 11 Pro Retail box with its USB stick to illustrate the contents.)

Physical box of Windows 11 Pro Retail with installation USB and product key. The Retail license comes officially packaged, unlike OEM, which is usually sold as a digital key only or preinstalled on new devices.

Higher cost (though variable)

Traditionally, Retail licenses have been significantly more expensive than OEM ones. For instance, the official price of Windows 11 Pro Retail in the Microsoft Store is around €200 (similar to what Windows 10 Pro once cost), while an OEM license for system builders could be half or even less. However, the landscape has changed with digital resellers: today, it's possible to find Windows 11 Pro Retail at heavily discounted prices through offers or license stores. As mentioned, at Licendi it costs €27.99, just about 12% more than the OEM at €24.99. This means choosing Retail is no longer a major expense. It still costs more on official sites, but through authorized third-party software stores, the price gap can be minimal or even eliminated in promotions. Always make sure the seller is trustworthy; avoid Retail keys sold at absurdly low prices (< €10), as they’re likely not legitimate.

In summary, the Windows 11 Retail license offers greater freedom and peace of mind: you can migrate it to new devices, receive Microsoft support, and aren’t locked to specific hardware. It’s ideal for users who frequently upgrade their PC, PC builders, or anyone who prefers having official backup even if it costs a little more.

Key Technical Differences: OEM vs Retail in Windows 11

Now that we’ve defined each type, let’s directly compare the OEM vs Retail differences in Windows 11 point by point, so you clearly understand how they contrast:

License transferability

This is the most important distinguishing factor. OEM: Non-transferable to another PC; it’s locked to the first hardware it is activated on. Retail: Transferable; you can move the license to a new device if you stop using it on the previous one. For example, if you have Windows 11 Retail activated on your desktop and later buy a laptop, you can deactivate the desktop license (or simply reformat it) and install Windows 11 on the laptop using the same Retail key, activating it at no extra cost. This wouldn’t be legally possible with an OEM license (you’d need to purchase a new key for the laptop).

Price and value

OEM is usually cheaper than Retail when purchased through official channels or in bulk. That’s why many users opted for OEM in the past. Today, with distributors like Licendi or online deals, the price gap between Windows 11 OEM and Retail can be very small. In our real example: €24.99 vs €27.99. For just a €3 difference, it’s worth considering whether the added flexibility of Retail is worth it. In most cases, since it’s less than the price of two coffees, choosing Retail is the smart move (you gain the ability to reuse the license later). However, if you find an OEM license significantly cheaper and your budget is very tight, the low-cost option may appeal to you. The general recommendation: don’t give up Retail benefits for minimal savings, but if the price gap is large and you’re certain you won’t change PCs, OEM can save you money.

Activation and installation process

From an operating system installation standpoint, there are no visible functional differences between an OEM and a Retail key. Both allow you to download the official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft, create a bootable USB, and activate Windows 11 Pro without limitations. However, the activation process is where the difference appears: the Retail license is linked to your Microsoft account (optional but recommended) and your hardware, whereas the OEM license is tied only to the hardware. If you sign in to your Microsoft account when activating Windows 11, the Retail key will be linked to your account, making it much easier to transfer to another device later using that account (activation can be restored online using the hardware change troubleshooter). With OEM, even if you link it to your account, Microsoft still treats it as tied to the device, and usually won’t allow automatic transfers; there are exceptions when minor hardware changes are made, but it’s not guaranteed. Both licenses receive Windows Update updates normally: in terms of security and new features, there’s no difference—your Windows 11 Pro OEM will receive the same updates as a Retail version. One note: OEM licenses are meant for clean installations, not upgrades. So if you try to use an OEM key on a non-activated Windows for an “upgrade,” you may be forced to do a clean install. Retail licenses can be used to upgrade existing systems (although with Windows 11, most upgrades from Windows 10 were free, this applies more to paid setups or special migrations).

Support and warranty

As mentioned, Retail includes Microsoft support. For example, if you experience activation issues with your Windows 11 Retail license, you can contact Microsoft support, and they’ll usually help unlock the key if you’ve exceeded activation limits, etc. With OEM, activation support falls to the manufacturer or store. In practice, if you buy an OEM key from Licendi or another store and have trouble activating it, the store itself will typically assist you or replace the key if needed. But Microsoft could officially tell you, “that’s an OEM license—contact your PC seller.” Additionally, the warranty for the key’s functionality is something vendors like Licendi provide (e.g., 100% activation guarantee or your money back), while Microsoft guarantees Retail licenses sold by them. Ultimately, with Retail, you have an extra layer of direct support from the main provider.

Feature limitations

No difference in OS features. Windows 11 Pro is fully functional whether you use OEM or Retail. There are no blocked features or performance differences. A Windows 11 system installed with an OEM license has the same functionality as one with a Retail license. It’s important to clarify that Windows 11 Pro OEM vs Retail differ only in licensing terms, not in software. (By contrast, editions like Windows 11 Home vs Pro do have functional differences, but that’s a separate topic from OEM/Retail licensing.)

Major migrations and future upgrades

Looking ahead: if Microsoft releases Windows 12 or another major version, neither license type guarantees free upgrades (that will depend on Microsoft’s policies at the time—just like Windows 10 users were once upgraded to 11 for free). However, historically, Retail licenses sometimes gave access to discounted upgrade versions, whereas OEM licenses were meant only for the purchased version. In any case, in terms of longevity, a Retail license is generally more “future-proof” since you can continue using it as long as compatible hardware exists—even when switching from one PC to another. An OEM license is tied to hardware that will eventually become obsolete, at which point the license reaches the end of its usable life.

Practical Use Cases: When to Choose OEM or Retail

To better understand whether paying more for Retail is worth it, let’s explore some real-world scenarios where choosing a Windows 11 license can make a difference:

Use Case 1: Long-term fixed PC (OEM Advantage)

Let’s imagine Carlos, who builds a basic PC for home office use. He bought modest components and only needs Windows 11 Pro for office tasks. He knows that he won’t upgrade that PC for many years (he’ll use it as-is for 5–7 years). In this case, Carlos decides to save a bit and purchases a legal Windows 11 Pro OEM license for €24.99, installing it on his new PC. He activates Windows without issue and is satisfied. Time passes, and he doesn’t change any critical components—the system keeps running smoothly. Was it a mistake to use an OEM license? In this scenario, no, because the OEM license served him perfectly on that one machine throughout its life. Carlos spent less up front and never needed to transfer the license. Conclusion: For a PC you plan to keep “until it dies,” and where every euro counts, the OEM license can make financial sense.

Use Case 2: Switching PC or motherboard (Retail Advantage)

Now let’s look at Lucía, a tech enthusiast. She bought a Windows 11 Pro Retail license because she frequently upgrades hardware. She started with a desktop PC and activated her Windows 11 Retail there. Two years later, she decided to build a new PC with the latest generation of processors and a new motherboard, and she wanted to transfer her license to the new machine. Since her license was Retail, she simply formatted the old PC, installed Windows 11 on the new one, and entered the same key during installation. Windows 11 didn’t activate immediately online (because it detected the key was already linked to another device), but she used the Activation Troubleshooter in Windows 11, selected the option “I recently changed hardware on this device,” and signed in with her Microsoft account. After verification, the system reactivated Windows 11 Pro on the new PC using Lucía’s Retail license, with no additional cost or calls. She got the most out of her license by moving it to the new PC. If she had used an OEM license, she would have legally needed to purchase a new key for that system. Conclusion: For users who upgrade key components or switch PCs frequently, the Retail license saves money long term and avoids headaches.

Use Case 3: Device failure and support (Retail as a lifesaver)

Let’s suppose Ana buys a Windows 11 OEM license along with a branded laptop. After a few months, she starts having activation issues: Windows shows messages saying “the license is not genuine,” even though it came preinstalled. If it were a Retail license purchased separately, Ana could contact Microsoft directly to resolve it. But since it’s a preinstalled OEM, the correct route is to contact the laptop manufacturer's support. Ana calls the brand's support, and they tell her the issue seems software-related and suggest reinstalling Windows. After reinstalling, the issue persists, and Microsoft doesn't assist directly, citing OEM limitations. Eventually, the problem is resolved, but Ana had to go through extra steps. Conclusion: In certain support situations, a Retail license gives you direct access to Microsoft, whereas with OEM, you rely more on the manufacturer or your own troubleshooting knowledge.

Use Case 4: Small business with multiple PCs (License Mix)

A small business has 5 computers. They decide to purchase Windows 11 Pro for all of them. They could go for 5 OEM licenses, which are a few euros cheaper each, but they think ahead: if one of the devices is replaced, the OEM license tied to that PC won’t work on the new one. So they invest in 5 Retail licenses, allowing them to reassign licenses if a computer dies or is replaced. Also, as a professional environment, they value being able to call Microsoft if a critical OS issue arises. The initial cost is slightly higher, but in the long run, they avoid having to repurchase licenses every time they change hardware. Conclusion: In multi-PC environments where hardware is periodically refreshed, Retail licenses offer flexibility and long-term savings by avoiding duplicate purchases for new machines.

These examples show that the question “Is the OEM license worth it compared to Retail?” depends on your specific situation. If you never change your PC, OEM gets the job done for less. If you upgrade hardware often or want full flexibility, Retail pays off over time.

Summary of Pros and Cons

To make the comparison easier, here’s a brief summary of the advantages of each license type and their possible disadvantages:

Advantages of Windows 11 OEM license:

• Lower upfront cost: It’s cheaper than Retail in most cases (although the current price difference may be small, it’s still the budget-friendly option). Ideal for limited budgets.
• Perfect for a dedicated PC: If you have a system meant to last or you’re building a PC for someone who won’t upgrade, you’ll get full Windows 11 at the lowest cost.
• Usually preinstalled: On branded PCs, it doesn’t require the user to install or purchase separately — just turn on the PC and Windows is already OEM-activated from the factory.

Disadvantages of OEM (drawbacks):

• Non-transferable: It’s locked to the first hardware. Changing the motherboard or switching to another PC means buying a new license.
• No Microsoft support: The user must manage issues alone or rely on the manufacturer. Microsoft does not officially provide support for individual OEM licenses.
• Less flexible for upgrades: Cannot be used to upgrade from a previous version (requires a clean installation). May also be limited by language or region in some cases (rare, but some OEM keys are region-locked).
• Stricter terms: Legally, the OEM EULA states it’s to be sold with hardware (even though in Europe you can buy it separately, it’s still stricter on paper).

Advantages of Windows 11 Retail license:

• Full reusability: You can reinstall on the same PC as many times as needed and transfer to a new PC if you change devices. The license “belongs” to you, not the machine.
• Official support: Access to Microsoft customer support for activation or other Windows-related issues.
• Flexible installation: Suitable for clean installs, upgrades, and both 32/64-bit systems. No manufacturer restrictions or unwanted pre-installed software.
• Professional use: Ideal for small business environments where invoicing and clear licensing compliance is required (Retail licenses often come with more complete documentation).

Disadvantages of Retail:

• Higher price when bought directly: If purchased from the Microsoft Store or other official channels, it costs significantly more than an OEM license. (Although discounted stores may reduce the gap, it’s still the “premium” option.)
• One PC at a time: Not really a downside, as OEM is also for one PC, but keep in mind that being transferable doesn't mean simultaneous use on two machines. If you need Windows on two devices at once, you’ll need two Retail licenses or consider volume licensing.
• Manual transfer process: Moving the Retail license to another PC sometimes requires extra steps (calling or using your Microsoft account). It’s a minor added effort compared to simply buying another OEM, but not complex.

As you can see, both types let you fully enjoy Windows 11 Pro. The choice mainly comes down to cost vs. flexibility. Up next, our final recommendation.

Conclusion: Which One Should I Buy?

After reviewing everything, we can conclude the following:

• If you're looking for the cheapest option possible and are absolutely sure that you will use the license on a single device for its entire lifespan, a Windows 11 Pro OEM license may be sufficient. It will do the job and save you a few euros. This could be the right choice for basic home PCs, machines you don’t plan to upgrade, or when buying a new computer that already includes Windows.
• On the other hand, in most cases for an average or advanced user, we recommend the Retail license for Windows 11 Pro. The price difference is currently minimal compared to OEM (in our example, only €3 more), and in return, you gain much more freedom: you can transfer your Windows 11 to another PC in the future without having to repurchase the operating system. Plus, you have the peace of mind of Microsoft support if needed. In terms of investment, Retail is worth it as it lasts for years and across multiple devices.
• Think about your use cases: if you're someone who builds PCs, changes components, or likes to stay up to date, the answer is almost always Retail. If you manage multiple PCs (family, small office), Retail also makes sense so you can move licenses as needed. Only choose OEM in very stable scenarios or when the price difference is significant and you're willing to accept its limitations.

In short, Windows 11 OEM vs Retail: which is better? For long-term and versatile use, Retail wins. OEM works for short-term setups and tight budgets, but the freedom Retail offers for just a few euros more makes it the better option in 2025.

Final tip: Buy your license from a trusted source. Both OEM and Retail must be original and legal keys to avoid activation issues or surprises. On sites like Licendi, for example, you get a 100% activation guarantee and support during the activation process. Once you have your key, activating Windows 11 is extremely easy, so don't worry about the technical part—focus on choosing the license that best fits your needs.

We hope this guide clarified the differences for you! Now you're ready to make an informed decision about your Windows 11 license.

Conclusion: Which One Should I Buy?

After analyzing everything, we can conclude the following:

• If you’re looking for the cheapest possible option and you’re absolutely sure that you will use the license on a single device for its entire lifespan, a Windows 11 Pro OEM license might be enough. It will get the job done and save you a few euros. This could be the right choice for basic home PCs, systems you don’t plan to upgrade, or when buying a new computer that already includes Windows.
• On the other hand, in most cases for an average or advanced user, we recommend the Retail license for Windows 11 Pro. The price difference nowadays is very small compared to OEM (in our example, just €3 more) and in exchange you get much more flexibility: you’ll be able to transfer your Windows 11 to another PC in the future without having to buy the operating system again. Plus, you get the peace of mind of Microsoft support if needed. In terms of investment, Retail is worth it as it will serve you for many years and multiple devices.
• Think about your use cases: if you build your own PC, change components, or like staying up to date, the answer is almost always Retail. If you manage multiple PCs (family, small office), Retail also makes sense to allow moving licenses around. Only choose OEM in very stable setups or when the price difference is significant and you're okay with its limitations.

In short, Windows 11 OEM vs Retail: which is better? For long-term and flexible use, Retail has the edge. OEM works well for one-time setups and tight budgets, but the freedom that Retail offers for just a few extra euros makes it the preferred option in 2025.

Final tip: Buy your license from trusted sources. Both OEM and Retail must be original and legal keys to avoid activation problems or surprises. At stores like Licendi, for example, you get a 100% activation guarantee and support throughout the activation process. Once you have your key, activating Windows 11 is very easy, so don’t worry about the technical part — just focus on choosing the license that best suits your needs.

We hope this guide clarified the differences! Now you're ready to make an informed decision about your Windows 11 license.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between an OEM and a Retail Windows 11 license?

The main difference is transferability and support. The OEM license is permanently tied to the first PC it’s activated on and cannot be used on another device, while the Retail license can be transferred to a new PC if you stop using it on the previous one. Additionally, Retail licenses include direct Microsoft support in case of issues, which OEM licenses do not (support must be provided by the PC manufacturer). In terms of features, there is no difference: Windows 11 Pro functions the same regardless of the license type. Only the terms of use vary.

Why is the OEM license cheaper than the Retail version?

Because it's intended for manufacturers and bulk sales. Microsoft offers OEM licenses at lower costs to system builders who install Windows on multiple machines. These do not include certain benefits like end-user support or transfer rights. Retail licenses are more expensive because they are aimed at individual consumers and offer more flexibility. At official retailers, the price difference can be significant (Retail may cost twice as much as OEM). However, in today’s digital license markets, prices are more balanced, and you can often find Retail keys for nearly the same price as OEM. In summary: You pay less for OEM but you're locked to one PC; you pay more for Retail and get mobility and official support.

Is it legal to buy a Windows 11 Pro OEM license online for €25?

Yes, it is legal as long as you buy it from a legitimate and authorized vendor. In Europe, for example, legislation allows the resale of unused or surplus software licenses, which is why stores can offer Windows 11 Pro OEM for around €25 (well below the official retail price). These keys often come from unused OEM batches or wholesale agreements. It’s important to ensure the store provides original licenses (not illegal generators). Signs of trust include providing a receipt, certificate, license source reference, and an activation guarantee. If you buy from reputable sites (such as Licendi), you’ll receive a valid OEM license with no issues. Avoid suspiciously cheap sources or individual auction sellers with no reputation, as they may be selling invalid keys. Always check buyer reviews.

Can I transfer my Windows 11 license (OEM or Retail) from an old PC to a new one?

If your license is Retail, yes, it’s possible. You need to install Windows 11 on the new PC and enter your same key during setup or in the Activation settings. If it doesn’t activate automatically online (because the key was used on different hardware), you can use the “Activation Troubleshooter” and select the option indicating you've changed your hardware. By signing in with your Microsoft account linked to the license, Windows will verify and activate it on the new PC, deactivating the old one. You can also call Microsoft’s activation line and follow the automated process using the installation ID provided. If your license is OEM, you officially cannot transfer it to another PC. That key is tied to the original hardware, and the agreement does not allow it to be moved. Often, trying to activate it on another machine will fail. You could contact Microsoft, but they typically advise purchasing a new license. A minor hardware change (e.g., upgrading RAM or GPU) may not invalidate OEM activation, but major changes (like the motherboard) will. In short: Retail licenses can be transferred if you follow the steps, OEM licenses cannot (except in rare exceptions or special cases from Microsoft).

How do I activate Windows 11 Pro with a Retail license?

Activating a Windows 11 Pro Retail license is very easy. Just follow these steps:

1. System installation: If you haven’t installed Windows 11 yet, download the ISO image from Microsoft’s official site or create a bootable USB using the Media Creation Tool. Install Windows 11 Pro on your PC. During setup, when prompted for the product key, enter your 25-character Retail key. (If you already have Windows installed but not activated, you can skip this step.)
2. Internet connection: Make sure your device is connected to the internet. Windows activation requires a connection to validate the key with Microsoft’s servers.
3. Enter the key (if not done during setup): Go to Start > Settings > System > Activation. Click on “Add a key” or “Change product key” and enter your Windows 11 Pro Retail key.
4. Automatic activation: Windows will send the key to Microsoft, and within seconds, it should activate. In the Activation screen, you’ll see the message “Windows is activated”. If it’s a Retail key, you may also see the note “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account” if you’re signed in. Linking the Retail license to your account makes future transfers easier.
5. And that’s it! Your Windows 11 Pro Retail license will be permanently activated. From then on, any time you reinstall on that same PC (as long as there are no major hardware changes), it will reactivate automatically. If you switch PCs, remember to link your license to your Microsoft account to make the transfer smoother using the troubleshooter.

Is the Windows 11 experience different with an OEM vs a Retail license?

No, the experience inside the Windows 11 Pro operating system is identical regardless of the license type. All features, updates, and components (such as the desktop, apps, Windows Update, Microsoft Store, etc.) are equally available. There are no differences in performance or functionality between OEM and Retail. For example, Windows Hello, BitLocker, Hyper-V virtualization, Snap Layouts—all are included in Windows 11 Pro no matter how you activated it. The only differences appear outside the OS: OEM can’t be moved to another device and lacks Microsoft support. But the software works exactly the same. Even the activation interface and messages are almost identical (except that Retail may show the link to your Microsoft account). In summary: OEM vs Retail does not affect the user experience in Windows 11—only the activation terms.

What about “Volume” licenses I’ve heard of?

Besides OEM and Retail, there’s a third type called Volume Licensing, intended for large organizations. These are keys (sometimes called MAK or KMS) that activate multiple machines and are commonly used in companies or institutions that need many installations. These volume licenses come with special terms: for example, they are not intended for resale to the general public and using them outside the licensed organization is illegal. Sometimes, you’ll see cheap keys online that are actually misused volume licenses—you should avoid these, as they may be revoked. For home users or small businesses, the real options are OEM or Retail. Volume licenses only make sense if you manage dozens of PCs under a Microsoft enterprise agreement. In short, if you see offers like “Windows 11 Pro for €5,” they’re likely unauthorized volume licenses. Stick with genuine options: OEM (one PC) or Retail (transferable), as explained in this article.

We hope this guide has answered your questions about OEM vs Retail licenses in Windows 11 and helps you make the best decision for your situation. Enjoy your Windows 11—whichever license you choose—and make the most of your PC!