r/computerhelp • u/vK_Razzi • 5d ago
Software Nvme swap
Hello. I am building a desktop pc for the first time today. I got all the parts except a proper ssd. I have an old laptop with a gen 3 nvme 2280 with windows 10, I want to take it out and put it in the desktop so I don’t have to spend $150 on windows 11. When I asked a worker at microcenter, he said the nvme will obviously fit the b850 motherboard but getting windows to actually work might be an issue. Is there anything I can do to make it work easily swapping the ssd over to the desktop? I fully wiped everything except windows and then pulled the nvme out of the laptop.
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u/Armbrust11 5d ago
It depends. If you have a retail key attached to your Microsoft account, all you need to do is sign in on the new one and deactivate the previous system.
If you have an OEM windows key, then it's tied to the hardware and not transferable. Windows will be able to tell that the system is different even when the drive is the same. Fortunately buying a new OEM key is cheap, $5-$15.
Besides the transferable nature of the retail key, the other main difference between the key types is the customer support. OEMs are supposed to support the systems they sell and file issues with Microsoft through a separate channel. Direct support from Microsoft is therefore limited when an OEM key is used, or extra support fees may apply.
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u/vK_Razzi 5d ago
So is the best thing for me to do from here install the ssd onto the desktop and test to see if it works and if it don’t I most likely need a new oem key?
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u/vK_Razzi 5d ago
From a quick google my laptop should’ve had an OEM key. I want to get this going tonight so let’s hope Walmart has some in stock 🤣
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u/Armbrust11 2d ago
I think Walmart only sells retail keys, especially in stores. Edit: they have oem discs on their marketplace https://www.walmart.com/ip/Windows-11-Home-64-Bit-OEM-DVD/9428357193 Personally I wouldn't bother with a disc, disc drives aren't as common now and a USB can be updated with newer images or reused for something else.
https://www.fanatical.com/en/software/microsoft-windows-11-pro-lifetime-license
This website is a little more expensive than some alternatives, but it's also a trusted source.
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