Differences between Windows 11 "Package version", "DSP version" and "OEM version"

Windows 11 mainly has "Packaged version (retail version)""DSP version""OEMThere are three license types:

The main differences between the three versions

Features	Packaged version (retail version)	DSP version	OEM
Sales form	The OS can be purchased separately (USB memory or download)	Purchased as a set with PC parts	Pre-installed on your PC
Price	high	Somewhat cheap	Included in the PC price
License Transfer	Possible (Can be transferred to another PC)	Impossible in principle	Improper
Support	Microsoft	Stocklist	PC manufacturers
Main target audience	PC builders and those who plan to replace their PC in the future	DIY PC users	Typical PC buyer

Details of each version

Packaged version (retail version)

This product is sold as a set with just the OS, including the installation media on a USB memory stick and the product key.

• merit:
  • Free license transfer: Even if you buy a new PC or replace a major part such as the motherboard, you can transfer the license to the new PC and continue using it. (However, you cannot use it on multiple PCs at the same time.)
  • Official Microsoft support: For installation and activation issues, support is available directly from Microsoft.
• Demerit:
  • Highest price: Because of its flexibility, it is more expensive than other versions.

• Windows 11 Home Official Package Edition (Japanese version)(View on Amazon)
• Windows 11 Home Official Package Edition (Japanese version)(View on Rakuten)

• Windows 11 Pro Official Package Edition (Japanese version)(View on Amazon)
• Windows 11 Pro Official Package Edition (Japanese version)(View on Rakuten)

I want to read it together

Windows 11: Which is better? Packaged version or online code version When considering purchasing Windows 11, are you unsure whether to choose the "packaged version (with USB memory)" or the "online code version (download)"?

DSP version (Delivery Service Partner version)

This version must be purchased along with other PC parts such as the CPU, memory, SSD, and motherboard. It is commonly found in the DIY PC market.

• merit:
  • Relatively cheap: It is cheaper than the packaged version.
• Demerit:
  • License transfer is generally not possible: The license is tied to the PC (especially the motherboard) on which you first installed the OS, so if that PC breaks or you replace it, you cannot use the license on the new PC.
  • Support is available from your dealer: Support for the OS is provided by the retailer where you purchased it, not by Microsoft.

OEM version (Original Equipment Manufacturer version)

This is the Windows that is pre-installed on manufacturer-manufactured computers. The purchase price of the PC includes the cost of the OS.

• merit:
  • No purchase or setup hassle: It's pre-installed, so you don't need to purchase or install the OS separately.
• Demerit:
  • License transfer not possible: As with the DSP version, the license is bound to the PC and cannot be transferred to another PC.
  • Supported by PC manufacturers: Support for the entire PC, including the OS, is provided by the PC manufacturer.

Which one should I choose?

If you are purchasing a new PC from a manufacturer, you will automatically be using the OEM version. There is no need to make any special selection.

If you are building your own PC or want to continue using the same Windows even if you replace your PC in the future, we recommend the packaged version. Although the initial cost is high, it is cost-effective in the long run.

If you are building your own PC and want to keep costs as low as possible, the DSP version is the way to go. However, you must be prepared to use it only on that one PC.