Windows 8 $14.99 Upgrade Code is Now available

By FaiKee
in Microsoft (Windows)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Grand Master

forster

Posted
Posted

Interesting, didnt ask me - I've just upgraded Win7 and it went flawlessly, I've seen a few vids of the 'learning curve' people have to go through, and Im quite enjoying the experience.

Grand Master

Noir Angel

Posted
Posted

But is the ISO bootable? if Yes it's simple you can do a clean install altough there is FAQ on Microsoft support site for windows 8 that says:

You upgraded to Windows 8, but didn't have a previous version of Windowsinstalled (error 0xC004F061)

If you see error 0xC004F061 when you try to activate Windows 8, it means that you're using a product key for an upgrade version of Windows 8 and a previous version of Windows wasn't on your PC when Windows 8 was installed. To install an upgrade version of Windows 8, you must already have Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP installed on your PC.

If you formatted the drive before the upgrade version of Windows 8 was installed, you won't be able to use your upgrade product key to activate Windows 8. To activate Windows 8, you'll need to install your previous version of Windows, and then reinstall Windows 8. For help with the activation process, contact support.

Did you get that error with the 14.99 upgrade or the 24.99 upgrade? I hear the 14.99 upgrade has more limitations than the normally priced upgrade

Experienced

benthebear

Posted
Posted

btw, if anyone is interested in the $39.99 upgrade from XP/vista/win7 to win8 Pro(+WMC), he can try with the Windows Upgrade Assistant, download link: http://go.microsoft..../?LinkID=262205

Sweet, I thought it was pointless to make people who want to download it wait another day (I know, first world problems), and the upgrade assistant let me buy it for $39 and it's downloading now.

Grand Master

Hum

Posted
Posted

It's for people who just bought a PC with Windows 7 (I think in like the last month or two). They get the $14.99 upgrade.

If you bought a Windows 7 PC months ago you can still get the upgrade but it'll cost you $39.99.

So people are paying once for Windows 7, then the very cheapo price of $15 for 8 -- I did not misunderstand then. :laugh:

Proficient

Cask1

Posted
Posted

Was anyone already running Windows 8 able to buy using the upgrade assistant...it should be available in my country but I keep getting the Not available in your region message. probably the issue is that I am already running Windows 8, but want to purchase a legit key.

Veteran

scaramonga

Posted
Posted

Seems the ?14.99 key is 'upgrade' ONLY! It will let you install from any ISO image, but will NOT activate if it was a clean install!! You need Win7 installed first. :(

Windows 8 has a 'reset your pc' option where it cleans your whole system but maintains the activation, so it will be just like a clean install, I suppose.

Enthusiast

scorpian007

Posted
Posted

Was anyone already running Windows 8 able to buy using the upgrade assistant...it should be available in my country but I keep getting the Not available in your region message. probably the issue is that I am already running Windows 8, but want to purchase a legit key.

Also having this issue. Trying to buy another key for my HTPC but I've already got Win 8 Pro on my main machine :(

Veteran

scaramonga

Posted
Posted

Well, good news :) The old method of installing from upgrade disk as clean install works, same method as for Win7 ;)


Change the following registry key before activating:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/Software/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Setup/OOBE

Change "MediaBootInstall" from "1" to "0"

Then type "slmgr /rearm" into a command prompt, wait for conformation prompt.

Restart the PC.

Activate.
[/CODE]

Confirmed 100% working :)

  • +InsaneNutter
  • Like 1
Proficient

Cask1

Posted
Posted

Also having this issue. Trying to buy another key for my HTPC but I've already got Win 8 Pro on my main machine :(

Got it to work, just run the upgrade assistant in Windows XP Service Pack 3 compatibility mode. It will give you your key that way. Was able to activate my installation that was activated using a fake KMS server last August.....and it is a clean install!

Grand Master

Joni_78

Posted
Posted

Good question, I think it lets you pick. Download this yesterday and installing this now. Will let you know shortly. I need the x64 so hopefully x64 and 32 in the same iso.

6 minutes left to see what it downloaded. Keys should work on MSDN & TechNet discs too, incase it downloads just 32-bit media.

Contributor

Neowon

Posted
Posted

6 minutes left to see what it downloaded. Keys should work on MSDN & TechNet discs too, incase it downloads just 32-bit media.

Installed x64. I guess it downloads whatever version you have as an update?

It looks really crist tbh and IE10 looks surprisingly good. Time to play around a bit and see. First thing first windows update!

Download is painfully slow!

lol it download within 30 mins for me. Then again I dl it yesterday.

Grand Master

Joni_78

Posted
Posted

It downloaded 64-bit, I was running 64-bit when running the upgrade assistant.

However it downloads just the install files "C:\ESD" (hidden folder) and comparing the original 64-bit disc from TechNet, there is alot of differencies. 64-bit for Technet is 3.33 GB and this is 2.61 GB, this doesn't have install.wim, it has install.esd which is 1.96 GB, install.wim from Technet is 2.68 GB. I guess install.esd has some skus removed.

Just tested and the key works fine when doing a clean install from Technet disc :)

Grand Master

Jan Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

It downloaded 64-bit, I was running 64-bit when running the upgrade assistant.

However it downloads just the install files "C:\ESD" (hidden folder) and comparing the original 64-bit disc from TechNet, there is alot of differencies. 64-bit for Technet is 3.33 GB and this is 2.61 GB, this doesn't have install.wim, it has install.esd which is 1.96 GB, install.wim from Technet is 2.68 GB. I guess install.esd has some skus removed.

Just tested and the key works fine when doing a clean install from Technet disc :)

Is there any way to get the 64 bit install media whilst on 32 bit?

Grand Master

Joni_78

Posted
Posted

Is there any way to get the 64 bit install media whilst on 32 bit?

Dunno, it didn't give any choice on 64-bit. Did you try upgrade assistant on 32-bit OS? Also there is a lot of places to get the untouched original disc as .iso image, just check that the SHA-1 is the same as stated on TechNet and MSDN.

This is from Microsoft TechNet

Windows 8 (x64) - DVD (English)

File Name: en_windows_8_x64_dvd_915440.iso

Languages: English

SHA1: 1CE53AD5F60419CF04A715CF3233F247E48BEEC4

Windows 8 (x64) - DVD (English-United Kingdom)

File Name: en-gb_windows_8_x64_dvd_915412.iso

Languages: English

SHA1: 79ED9958CF1690DD8A60A0B1B15F5DCC76C8E625

Grand Master

Jan Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

Dunno, it didn't give any choice on 64-bit. Did you try upgrade assistant on 32-bit OS? Also there is a lot of places to get the untouched original disc as .iso image, just check that the SHA-1 is the same as stated on TechNet and MSDN.

This is from Microsoft TechNet

Windows 8 (x64) - DVD (English)

File Name: en_windows_8_x64_dvd_915440.iso

Languages: English

SHA1: 1CE53AD5F60419CF04A715CF3233F247E48BEEC4

Windows 8 (x64) - DVD (English-United Kingdom)

File Name: en-gb_windows_8_x64_dvd_915412.iso

Languages: English

SHA1: 79ED9958CF1690DD8A60A0B1B15F5DCC76C8E625

Would the upgrade activation code work? Or would I need the full version of Windows 8?

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Posts

    • How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-driven Economy —was $28 now FREE

      By News Staff · Posted

      How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-driven Economy —was $28 now FREE by Steven Parker Claim your complimentary copy (worth $28) of "How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-driven Economy" for free, before the offer ends on June 30. Description In today’s workplace, headlines about artificial intelligence can feel overwhelming. With headlines swinging between promises of utopia and warnings of mass unemployment, for most knowledge workers, the truth feels unclear. In this book, Sharon Gai cuts through the noise. Drawing from real-world examples and global insights, she explains how AI is reshaping the way we work—without hype or fearmongering. Instead of choosing between blind optimism or outright pessimism, she offers a practical, balanced perspective that helps readers make sense of the rapidly evolving AI landscape. You’ll learn how to: Reskill and future-proof your career in the face of AI disruption Identify which parts of your role can be automated, and which require human creativity and judgment Use proven frameworks to evaluate AI’s impact on your work and your organization Apply actionable tips and tools to boost productivity, make smarter decisions, and do more with less Gain clarity as a parent, leader, or professional navigating what this means for the next generation Whether you’re an employee anxious about your future, a parent concerned about your children’s opportunities, or a leader managing a lean team with tight budgets, this book provides the strategies and mindset you need to adapt so you can stop worrying and start preparing. How to download for free Please ensure you read the terms and conditions to claim this offer. Complete and verifiable information is required in order to receive this free offer. If you have previously made use of these offers, you will not need to re-register. Was $28, but is now FREE | Below free offer link expires on June 30. How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-driven Economy The below offers are also available for free in exchange for your (work) email: The Vibe Coding Playbook: Building Your Tech Business with AI ($35 Value) FREE - Expires 6/23 The Persuasion Engine: How Any Business Can Use AI-Powered Neuromarketing to Understand and Win Customers ($28 Value) FREE - Expires 6/24 How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-driven Economy ($28 Value) FREE - Expires 6/30 Cloud Security Fundamentals: Building the Foundations for Secure Cloud Platforms ($131.95 Value) FREE - Expires 7/1 The Complete Free AI Learning: Master ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini & More ($21 Value) FREE How to Build an AI Design Workflow with Gamma ($21 Value) FREE The Ultimate Linux Newbie Guide – Featured Free content Python Notes for Professionals – Featured Free content Learn Linux in 5 Days – Featured Free content Quick Reference Guide for Cybersecurity – Featured Free content We post these because we earn commission on each lead so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. Other ways to support Neowin The above deal not doing it for you, but still want to help? Check out the links below. Check out our partner software in the Neowin Store Buy a T-shirt at Neowin's Threadsquad Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: An account at Neowin Deals is required to participate in any deals powered by our affiliate, StackCommerce. For a full description of StackCommerce's privacy guidelines, go here. Neowin benefits from shared revenue of each sale made through the branded deals site.
    • Microsoft admits one of the most crucial Outlook features is currently broken

      By hellowalkman · Posted

      Microsoft admits one of the most crucial Outlook features is currently broken by Sayan Sen Microsoft is making some decent progress when it comes to Windows 11. Recently we have confirmed reports of some rather useful improvements landing in the next version of the OS, 26H2, wherein GPU driver TDR crashes may finally be fixed, plus the company is also allowing users to disable web content on the Search. On the Outlook front though things have not been so rosy. Last month in May we reported several problems affecting basic functionalities on the app. These included a problem where documents would open blank or corrupt themselves. Following that, Quick Steps, a very useful feature, would no longer work correctly, and finally, Microsoft acknowledged a problem wherein images would fail to load up properly inside the email. Microsoft had resolved those bugs later and almost exactly a month after we reported on them, the company has now admitted a new similarly basic issue, this time on Macs. Users recently started noticing that Outlook would no longer display email threads properly as the original message itself was not displayed. An affected user Tsoumpas, C (ngmb) nicely described the problem in a forum post they made on Microsoft's site. They wrote: "Description of the issue: After updating Outlook for Mac [Version 16.110 (26061317)] on 18/6/2026, replying to any email no longer includes the original message in the reply window. Prior to the update, replies correctly contained the original email text below my response. Expected behavior: The original message should be included in the reply, as in previous Outlook versions and according to the configured reply settings. Actual behavior: The reply window contains only a blank composition area (or only my response), with none of the original email text included." Obviously this must be a highly frustrating for users as noted by several in that thread. The post, at the time of writing, has also been upvoted by more than 40 users indicating that is a fairly widespread bug. Thankfully Microsoft seems to have acknowledged the problem right around that time as it opened a new issue on its official website. In the support article, the company recommends switching to Outlook for Mac from the legacy app, where the problem appears to be happening.
    • PotPlayer 260622

      By Copernic · Posted

      PotPlayer 260622 by Razvan Serea PotPlayer is an extremely light-weight multimedia player for Windows. It feels like the KMPlayer, but is in active development. Supports almost every available video formats out there. PotPlayer contains internal codecs and there is no need to install codecs manually. Other key features include WebCam/Analog/Digital TV devices support, gapless video playback, DXVA, live broadcasting. Distinctive features of the player is a high quality playback, support for all modern video and audio formats and a built DXVA video codecs. A wide range of subtitles are supported and you are also able to capture audio, video, and screenshots. A comprehensive video and audio player, that also supports TV channels, subtitles and skins. Its been described on the Internet as The KMPlayer redux, and it pretty much is. Daum PotPlayer 260622 (1.7.22963) changelog: Removed Kakao TV Added pause function when navigating via the navigation bar Significantly improved internal stability Fixed an issue where colors appeared strange during RGB24 processing Improved playback for some HTTP streams Improved sync processing for the built-in audio renderer Fixed an issue where certain MP4 files behaved abnormally during playback Download: Daum PotPlayer (64-bit) | 54.7 MB (Freeware) Download: Daum PotPlayer (32-bit) | 61.1 MB View: Daum PotPlayer Home Page | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Tixati 3.44

      By Copernic · Posted

      Tixati 3.44 is out.
    • Speccy 1.34.084

      By Copernic · Posted

      Speccy 1.34.084 by Razvan Serea Speccy will give you detailed statistics on every piece of hardware in your computer. Including CPU, Motherboard, RAM, Graphics Cards, Hard Disks, Optical Drives, Audio support. Additionally Speccy adds the temperatures of your different components, so you can easily see if there's a problem! Processor brand and model Hard drive size and speed Amount of memory (RAM) Graphics card Operating system At first glance, Speccy may seem like an application for system administrators and power users. It certainly is, but Speccy can also help normal users, in everyday computing life. If you need to add more memory to your system, for example, you can check how many memory slots your computer has and what memory's already installed. Then you can go out and buy the right type of memory to add on or replace what you've already got. Download: Speccy 1.34.084 | 20.5 MB (Freeware) View: Speccy Website | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware

  • Recent Achievements

    • Dedicated
      tuben earned a badge
      Dedicated
    • Week One Done
      mnsgroup earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Conversation Starter
      sumytbe earned a badge
      Conversation Starter
    • One Year In
      B4dM1k3 earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Year In
      DarkWun earned a badge
      One Year In

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      522
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      199
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      94
    4. 4
      Michael Scrip
      82
    5. 5
      neufuse
      69
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!