Before you do this, you should do some research and ensure your new PC’s hardware is fully compatible with Windows 7. If you already have a retail copy of Windows 7, this is an inexpensive way to replace Windows 8. The only catch is that it can only be installed on one PC at a time, so you’ll have to remove it from any other PCs it’s installed on before installing it on your new PC. However, if you picked up a full retail boxed copy, you can install it on your new Windows 8 PC.

There’s also an upgrade copy, which can only be installed as an upgrade. There’s an OEM copy, which you’re only allowed to install on a single PC. Note that there are several different versions of Windows 7. You’d probably be happier with a longer-lasting, newer device, even if it comes with a version of Windows you don’t prefer.ĭid you ever buy a boxed retail copy of Windows 7? If you did, you may still be able to install it on your new PC today. Be sure to compare it to new models and verify that you’re actually getting a good deal - new Haswell and Atom laptops are becoming surprisingly cheap. Seeking out an old laptop is a dangerous game, as you may end up paying significantly more than the laptop is worth. RELATED: What You Need to Know About Buying Touch-Enabled Windows 8.1 PCs When you consider the huge advances made in hardware in the last year, particularly with I ntel’s Haswell chips and their extremely improved power efficiency and battery life, these don’t look like such a great deal. It’s now been 14 months since Windows 8 became generally available, so all these laptops will be over a year old. The big problem with purchasing a laptop with Windows 7 is that it will likely be rather old.

Search a site like Amazon for “Windows 7 laptop” and you’ll probably find them. Some PCs are still available with Windows 7, although they’re vanishing fast.

How to put windows on a new pc