I have been told that many PCs here are sold with a non-official Windows OS, hard to check out. true?

Many computers sold in Thailand ship with either a simple DOS OS or a LINUX Distro. Then there are merchants that want to be 'helpful', but their version of helpfulness won't allow the OS to update or download security patches.

But you CAN purchase a computer with a GENUINE Windows OS pre-installed with Licence Key by the OEM, or pay around ฿6,000+ for a retail version.

You REALLY need to verify the details with the merchant prior to purchase, or be prepared to format the entire drive and install a licensed retail version that lacks the special utility programs specific to that unit that are normally included on a PC+Windows OS bundled kit.

Some ThaiVisa threads discussing this:

No licence

Started by Eddy B, 2014-07-04 16:00 -- 18 replies

Buy a Laptop in Samui : advice & warranty

Started by samui4me, 2014-07-04 20:10 -- 39 replies

New Computer + Which Version of Windows?

Started by klikster, 2014-04-18 09:15 -- 25 replies

Where To Buy Genuine Windows 7 In Thailand?

Started by davejones23, 2014-04-17 15:32 -- 77 replies

Thanks indeed, helpful but also irritating for an ignorant like myself.

Would a Mac have the same problems?

Tempted to switch to a good small notebook.

You can check the manufacturers Thai website for any computer you are interested in, to see if the specifications state Windows, DOS or Linux as the OS.

Many computers sold in Thailand for below 20,000 baht will not come with genuine Windows.

Laptops you see in IT malls for 15,000 baht running Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 8 Pro... common sense tells you manufacturers don't put the most expensive version of Windows on budget computers so very unlikely to be genuine Windows.

First Lenovo I bought in Thailand was from a 'Lenovo' shop... but came with a pirated version of XP so don't assume all seemingly factory shops sell the real thing. Always check the company website for specs.

Any computer with genuine Windows pre-installed will have a Windows sticker attached near the keyboard. It would be a good idea to also check the box a computer is packaged in. It will usually have the Windows logo printed on it as well as the primary computer specifications and Serial number...also worth checking against the machine itself.

Probably most important is to buy from an established dealer with staff that you can communicate with who are willing to answer questions but even with that, never allow them to take the computer to "someone who will install Windows for you"

There can be good deals to be had on laptops at discount stores like BIG-C and TESCO but the staff have little knowledge and there is no support.

Most of the computers sold by discounters do not have Windows OS installed.

Yes, many PCs are sold without Windows installed purely to reduce computer cost...usually just a FreeDOS or some free version Linux. You see this in other countries also. This way the computer cost is cheaper and the customer can buy/install whatever OS they want to...Windows, Linux, etc. Most Thai stores/shops will load Windows on your computer for Bt500 or less...but it's only an evaluation copy or doggy copy....not activated or has been activated through less than legal ways and the OS may deactivate itself later on during an Automatic update when Windows tries to verify a genuine copy is installed. Also, I don't think many of the newer computers with Windows pre-installed, like Win8.1, even come with a COA on the computer anymore.

Yours truly OP likes it easy, no headaches, if money is not he issue, would you go for a Mac laptop? I work exclusively on my lap

OSX is far superior to Windows. All versions from day one. If you can afford it.

The decision of what Hardware and OS should always be based on the user's 'need'. Who makes the better/easiest/cheaper tools to do the work?

Find a PC that comes bundled with Windows OS, or add your own OS.

Find a MAC.

Find the software for either that you require do to what you need/want.

Compare them. Choose.

It's not that hard.

I say that, and have found myself getting upset because the manufacturers/retailers at the time didn't meet my expectations, but 6mo later they were. Bastards.

I work for hours on my lap only, using an Acer Aspire One, 3 years old. 95% via Internet.

Want something similar in size, better screen, more reliable, was told the inside is a mess, don´t understand a thing about it, Sturdy, light , and not warming up ( sensitive area ) I understand there are static HD. Most importanty, it must run ,run, run with the least possible care

Any suggestions?