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Feckellipsis's avatar
Feckellipsis
Iron Contributor
Jul 23, 2025

Where to buy a cheap windows 10 product to activate my windows 10?

My dad asked me to upgrade his computer from Windows 7 to Windows 10 and I did this successfully with the help of Windows 10 bootable USB. However, the Windows 7 product key he bought can't be used to activate Windows 10. Currently, he can't afford to buy a new genuine Windows 10 product from Microsoft as it is too pricey ($139 for Windows 10 Home and $199 for Windows 10 Pro.)

Is there any way to buy Windows 10 product key at discounted price? If yes, kindly let me know as Windows 10 is almost uselessly without activation.

Thank you

8 Replies

  • DaskSdaily's avatar
    DaskSdaily
    Iron Contributor

    You can activate Windows 10 without product key with some free tools.

  • DaskSdaily's avatar
    DaskSdaily
    Iron Contributor

    Buying Windows 10 product key from third-party or unauthorized sources can have several disadvantages, including:

    1. You might receive a fake or invalid key that won't activate Windows or may cause activation issues later.
    2. Unauthorized keys may not be eligible for official support, updates, or security patches from Microsoft.
    3. Purchasing and using unlicensed or counterfeit software can violate Microsoft's terms of service and may lead to legal consequences.
    4. Keys from untrusted sources might be associated with malware or compromised software, risking your device's security.
    5. You may encounter activation failures or limited functionality if the key is not genuine or has been previously used excessively.
    6. Unauthorized sellers often do not provide reliable customer support, refunds, or guarantees if the key doesn't work.

    To avoid these issues, it's safest to buy Windows 10 product key from official retailers or directly from Microsoft.

  • Nguyenais's avatar
    Nguyenais
    Bronze Contributor

    OEM key is much more cheaper than the Windows 10 product key you bought from Microsoft.

    An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) key is a license sold to PC manufacturers (like Dell, HP, Lenovo) to pre-activate Windows on new computers. These keys are:

    • Cheaper than retail licenses (since they’re bought in bulk).
    • Permanently tied to the motherboard (cannot be transferred to another PC).
    • No official Microsoft support (OEMs handle activation issues).

    How to Get Cheap Windows 10 OEM Product Key

    1. Buy Windows 10 Product Key from Trusted OEM Resellers
    OEM keys are meant for system builders, but some authorized sellers offer them separately.

    ✅ Recommended Stores:

    • Newegg (look for "System Builder" licenses)
    • Amazon (sold by Microsoft or authorized partners)
    • B&H Photo Video
    • Best Buy Business

    2. Buy a Refurbished PC with OEM License

    Many refurbished business PCs (Dell OptiPlex, HP EliteDesk) come with pre-activated OEM Windows 10 Pro.

    3. Find Windows 10 Product Key from an Old PC (If Already Activated)

    If your PC originally had Windows 10, the product key is embedded in the BIOS. To retrieve it:

    wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey

     

  • Oleel's avatar
    Oleel
    Iron Contributor

    When considering buying Windows 10 product key, especially for remote access setup, it's important to be aware of potential risks and pitfalls. Here are some key dangers and considerations:

    1. Many third-party sellers offer keys that are counterfeit, already used, or invalid. Some sites may take your money but never deliver a working key. Using unauthorized or pirated keys violates Microsoft's terms of service and can lead to legal consequences.

    2. Activation might fail if the key is invalid or stolen, leading to system deactivation or limited functionality. Unofficial keys may not be eligible for updates, support, or security patches from Microsoft.

    3. Untrusted sellers or sources might distribute malicious software or phishing links alongside the key. Providing personal information or payment details to dubious sites can compromise your privacy.

    4. If the Windows 10 product key is already in use elsewhere or flagged, you may face difficulties reactivating Windows if hardware changes or reinstallation is needed.

    When you are going to buy Windows 10 product key. The main dangers involve the potential for counterfeit keys, security risks, legal issues, and activation problems. To minimize these risks, always purchase from reputable sources and avoid suspicious deals or unverified online marketplaces.

  • Reitdba's avatar
    Reitdba
    Iron Contributor

    If you're part of an organization, business, or educational institution, Microsoft Volume Licensing can be a cost-effective way to buy genuine Windows 10 product key at discounted rates. 

    What is Microsoft Volume Licensing? Microsoft offers bulk discounts for businesses, governments, and schools that need multiple licenses. Instead of buying individual retail keys, you purchase licenses in bulk under a Volume Licensing Agreement.

    Types of Volume Licensing Programs:

    1. Open License 

    Best for small to medium businesses (5+ licenses).

    Pay once for perpetual licenses or annually for subscriptions.

    2. Enterprise Agreements (EA / EAS)

    For large organizations (500+ devices).

    Includes Windows, Office, and cloud services under one contract.

    3. Education Solutions (Academic Volume Licensing)

    Discounted/free licenses for schools, colleges, and universities.

    4. Service Provider License Agreement (SPLA)

    For cloud providers and hosted services.

    How to Get Cheap Windows 10 Keys via Volume Licensing?

    1. Check Eligibility

    You typically need at least 5 licenses to qualify.

    Educational institutions may get extra discounts.

    2. Find a Microsoft Partner/Reseller

    Microsoft doesn’t sell Volume Licenses directly—you must buy through authorized resellers like:

    • CDW
    • SHI International
    • Insight Enterprises
    • Local IT distributors
  • UriahRedwood's avatar
    UriahRedwood
    Iron Contributor

    I understand your situation. Buying Windows 10 product key can be expensive, but there are some options to find more affordable or discounted keys legally:

    1. Authorized Retailers and Discount Stores:  
    Look for sales or discounts on reputable online stores like Amazon, Newegg, or Best Buy. Sometimes, these retailers offer Windows 10 keys at a lower price during sales events.
    Be cautious to ensure you're purchasing from authorized sellers to avoid counterfeit keys.

    2. Alternative Options:  
    If the cost is prohibitive, consider using Windows 10 in unactivated mode for free with some limitations (like a watermark and personalization restrictions). Microsoft allows Windows 10 to run without activation indefinitely, though some features are limited.

    3. Microsoft Authorized Resellers:  
    Check Microsoft's official reseller list for discounted licenses or volume licensing options if applicable.

    Important: Avoid third-party sites offering "cheap" Windows 10 product key that seem too good to be true—they may sell invalid or pirated keys, which could cause activation issues or security risks.

  • Meoysdexter's avatar
    Meoysdexter
    Iron Contributor

    Windows 10 product keys can be expensive because Microsoft sells them at retail prices, and authorized resellers must follow pricing guidelines. However, there are legitimate ways to get a cheap or free Windows 10 product key:

    1. Upgrade from Windows 8.1 for Free

    Microsoft's free upgrade offer technically ended in 2016, but many users report that activating Windows 10 with a valid Windows 7 or 8.1 key still works.

    2. Buy from Microsoft’s Official Discounts

    Check Microsoft’s official store for student discounts, holiday sales, or bundle deals (e.g., with hardware).

    3. OEM Keys (For System Builders)

    OEM keys (intended for PC manufacturers) are cheaper but are tied to one motherboard permanently.

    4. Educational Licenses (For Students & Teachers)

    Some schools/universities provide free or discounted Windows keys via Microsoft Imagine (Azure Dev Tools for Education).

    5. Refurbished PCs with Pre-Activated Windows

    Some refurbished computers come with a legitimate OEM license.

    Would you like help finding a specific deal for Windows 10 activation key? Let me know!

  • Makiun's avatar
    Makiun
    Iron Contributor

    Obtaining a genuine Windows 10 product key through official channels typically isn't possible unless you qualify for specific programs or promotions. However, here are some legitimate options:

    1. If you already have a genuine Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 license, you might still be able to upgrade to Windows 10 for free. Microsoft officially ended the free upgrade offer in 2019, but some users report still being able to upgrade without paying.
    2. If your device already has Windows 10 activated, it has a digital license. You usually don't need to enter a Windows 10 product key again unless reinstalling.
    3. Some schools or universities provide free or discounted Windows licenses to students and staff through programs like Microsoft Education.
    4. If you're a developer, joining the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) or Visual Studio subscriptions may offer free Windows keys for development purposes. These are typically for testing and development only.

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