LICENCE TYPES GUIDE
Retail vs OEM vs BIND: Licence Types
We sell the same software as Retail, OEM and BIND — so what's the difference? This guide explains clearly what each type binds to and what happens on a format or hardware change, so you pick the right type before buying. The software you install is identical across all three types; what changes is what the licence binds to and the rules that follow from it. That's why the cheapest type isn't automatically the right one for everyone — the type that matches how you use your PC works out better in the long run. The table and questions below are here to make that choice clear.
Short answer
OEM is usually the best-priced: it binds to your motherboard and re-activates on the same PC after formatting. BIND registers to your Microsoft account (e-mail) — it survives formats and stays in your account. Retail is the standard type with a one-time activation; reinstalling after a format requires a new licence. When unsure, check the type details on each product page.
Example Products (Live Prices)
$11.99$7.99%33
$8.99$5.99%33
$112.99$73.99%35
Prices are live. These are example products — most software is available in more than one type.
Type Comparison
| Feature | Retail (e.g. Windows 11 Pro) | OEM (e.g. Windows 11 Pro) | BIND (e.g. Office 2021) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Binds to | The device (single install) | The motherboard | Your Microsoft account (e-mail) |
| After formatting | New licence required | Re-activates on the same PC | Preserved in your account |
| On motherboard change | New licence required | New licence required | Moves with your account |
| Usage period | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Activation window | Shortly after delivery (24h for Office) | Shortly after delivery | Within 6 hours of delivery |
| Price level | Standard | Usually the lowest | Mid |
Which One Is for Whom?
Best-price hunters
OEM: the most economical path if you'll keep using the same computer. As long as the motherboard stays, it re-activates after formats.
Frequent formatters
BIND: registered to your Microsoft account, so it survives formats — sign in and reinstall Office whenever needed.
Standard single install
Retail: the standard type for installing once and using for years. Buy knowing it provides a one-time activation.
Planning a hardware refresh
If a motherboard/PC change is on the horizon, the account-portable BIND type is your safest pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to an OEM licence when the motherboard changes?
OEM binds to the motherboard, so a motherboard change invalidates it and a new licence is required. Formatting on the same motherboard is fine — it re-activates.
What exactly does a BIND licence register to?
To your Microsoft account (e-mail address). Even after formatting, the licence stays in your account; sign in and reinstall the software. It must be activated within 6 hours of delivery.
What happens with a Retail licence after formatting?
The Retail keys in our store provide a one-time activation; reinstalling after a format requires a new licence. If you format often, consider the BIND or OEM types.
Which type is right for me?
Same PC + best price → OEM. Frequent formats / hardware changes → BIND. Standard single install → Retail. Each product page clearly states its type.
Are all types genuine and invoiced?
Yes — regardless of type, all our keys are 100% genuine, verified on Microsoft servers and sold with an invoice.
Is the software itself different between licence types?
No — the software you install is exactly the same on all three types; features, updates and performance don't vary by type. The only difference is what the licence binds to and what happens on a format or hardware change.
Can I move my licence to another computer later?
Not with Retail or OEM: Retail provides a one-time activation and OEM is tied to the motherboard. If a PC or motherboard change is in your plans, the right pick is the account-portable BIND type. On your new device, sign in to your Microsoft account and reinstall the software.
Do I need to activate the key as soon as it arrives?
Yes — whatever the type, we recommend activating without delay. BIND licences must be activated within 6 hours of delivery, and the window is short for the other types too. It's best to time your purchase for when you can actually do the installation.
This page is an informational comparison prepared by Karınca Lisans. Please make sure you choose the licence that fits your needs before purchasing.
Type definitions are based on the delivery and activation terms of the products in our store (as of July 2026). Review the current terms on the product page before buying.