Microsoft Windows 8 Prices and Packaging Revealed

From X-bit Labs: Microsoft Corp.'s partners on Friday revealed the look of Windows 8 products retail packaging as well as pricing information. The new operating systems will continue to be sold separately as 32-bit and 64-bit versions; besides, several upgrade options will be offered.

The design of Microsoft Windows 8 operating systems packaging will be vastly different from the previous version, which should emphasize the reimagining of Windows. The Win 8 will come in packages that will feature one of 5 vibrant illustrations. Microsoft moved to paper based materials (the exception of course being the DVD inside), which allowed it to make an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption. The software giant also claims that it reduced the packaging weight by 41%, which is also good for ecology as well as shipment costs.

Newegg.com, one of the U.S. largest online stores, on Friday began to take pre-orders on different Windows 8 products. The price-list for Windows 8 SKUs looks as follows:

Windows 8 32-bit or 64-bit version OEM - $99.99
Windows 8 Pro 32-bit or 64-bit version OEM - $139.99
Windows 8 Pro Pack (product key only, upgrades Windows 8 to Windows 8 Pro) - $69.99 (original price - $99.99)
Windows 8 Professional Upgrade (upgrades any Windows XP/Vista/7 PC to Windows 8 Pro) - $69.99 (original price - $199.99)

As expected, Microsoft dropped full retail versions of its operating systems and therefore end-users will have to get OEM versions for personal use. The good news is that they are less expensive, the bad news is that they do not offer tech support.

It is noteworthy that upgrading to Windows 8 Pro from an older operating system will eventually cost more than getting a full Windows 8 Pro. Moreover, those, who definitely plan to migrate to Windows 8 Pro, can upgrade online via Windows.com using the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant for just $39.99 from October 26, 2012, to January 31, 2013.

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