Does installing Windows 10 tech prev on Windows 8.1 free up that Product key?

[anubhav756]

Recently bought a new laptop without any OS in it.

When I tried to install Windows 8.1 in it, I received a message saying you cannot use this product key on more than one computers.

So, if I install windows 10 on my old laptop (currently having that windows 8.1), will that product key free up : will I then be able to install it on my new laptop?

Thanks

 

[ajayden]

That is because you are trying to install the same copy of Windows 8.1 on 2 computers.

Installing Windows 10 does not free up the key.

 

[Richard Culverhouse]

Probably not. Sounds like an OEM key, which are tied to hardware and don't transfer.

Edit: Got beaten to the punch lol.

OP: Why don't you put windows 10 on the new (OS-less) laptop?

 

[David Feifer]

When and if you end up installing windows 10 on the old system, after release, the 8.1 key will still be tied to that old system since the windows 10 install will be counted as an upgrade. You WILL end up buying a license for the new system eventually.