Can you install Windows Vista retail version on two computers?

I have an iMac and a Macbookpro, I just wonder if I buy a full retail version vista, can I install on both of my computer? Or do I need to buy 2 copies, it is very expensive, I really want to avoid buying 2 copies. Anyone here with a suggestion?

No, both legally and technically. Legally because you are only buying a single license, which can only be used on a single machine. Technically because Windows has an activation program that prevents you from installing the same key on more than one machine.

Instead of buying retail, you should look into buying OEM copies as they are FAR cheaper than the retail option. In some cases, two OEM licenses might cost less than a single retail copy.

seasurfer said:

I have an iMac and a Macbookpro, I just wonder if I buy a full retail version vista, can I install on both of my computer? Or do I need to buy 2 copies, it is very expensive, I really want to avoid buying 2 copies. Anyone here with a suggestion?

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You can install it on one machine. Sorry.

Here are some comparisons:

Vista Home Premium OEM = $111.99

Vista Home Premium Retail = $219.99


Vista Ultimate OEM = $179.99

Vista Ultimate Retail = $319.99


It gets even cheaper when you look at Windows XP (I only show OEM copies since retail copies aren't available):

XP Home OEM = $89.99

XP Pro OEM = $139.99


The only difference between a retail and OEM copy? All that fancy packaging. I'm not kidding, the disc is exactly the same.

kcender7777777 said:

There are other differences in the terms of the license for OEM, as in if you purchase it, you are responsible for your own support (intended for system builders and retailers like Dell that provide their own support). Also, the OEM license is tied to the machine it is installed on, can not be transferred.

Unlike Retail licenses which can be transferred from one machine to another and are also a lot more flexible for people who continually upgrade their systems. No issues when changing motherboards, or graphics cards etc.

Just my 2 cents worth

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Thanks a lot. Well, I can't change my iMac and MBP motherboard anyway. Therefore it doesn't really matter to meet.

I will still be using my beloved Leopard anyway most of the time. I just wanted to have a backup, and I also like to experience Vista, so the support is not important to me, should there be any hassle, I will just dump them.

kcender7777777 said:

There are other differences in the terms of the license for OEM, as in if you purchase it, you are responsible for your own support (intended for system builders and retailers like Dell that provide their own support). Also, the OEM license is tied to the machine it is installed on, can not be transferred.

Unlike Retail licenses which can be transferred from one machine to another and are also a lot more flexible for people who continually upgrade their systems. No issues when changing motherboards, or graphics cards etc.

Just my 2 cents worth

Click to expand...

Hmm I have never purchased a retail version of any OS and I have never had any problems in getting support, or transferring it to different computers which I have done several times with the three different copies (OEM) of XP that I have purchased. Are you basing your comments on hearsay or have you ever really tried yourself , I speak from personal experience and in fact the copy I have installed via boot camp on the MPB I am typing this response from. Transfered it from a strictly windows machine through MS support to activate it . With operating systems Retail = wasted money.