Windows 11 comes in two main editions for everyday buyers: Home and Pro. They look almost identical on screen and run the same apps. The differences are in security, remote access and management features that matter most to businesses. There is also a second choice that confuses many buyers: whether to buy a retail license or an OEM license.
This guide walks through both decisions so you buy the right license the first time.
What both editions include
- The full Windows 11 desktop, Start menu and Microsoft Store
- Microsoft Defender antivirus and firewall
- Windows Hello sign-in with face or fingerprint on supported hardware
- Regular feature and security updates from Microsoft
For browsing, email, streaming, schoolwork and most office apps, Windows 11 Home is completely capable.
What Windows 11 Pro adds
- BitLocker drive encryption with full controls, which protects your data if a laptop is lost or stolen.
- Remote Desktop, so you can securely connect to the computer from another device.
- Business domain and cloud management, which lets a company manage settings, apps and security across all of its computers.
- Group Policy and update controls for deciding when updates install.
- Hyper-V for running virtual machines, useful for IT work and testing.
Which edition should you choose?
- Choose Home for personal computers, family PCs and students.
- Choose Pro when your business needs domain or Entra ID join, Remote Desktop hosting, or more control over encryption and management.
Home can be suitable for basic work. Supported Home devices may also offer Device Encryption; Pro adds fuller BitLocker controls. Match the edition to your management needs rather than paying for features you will not use.
Retail USB vs. OEM: what is the difference?
Both versions install the same Windows. The difference is the license terms:
| Retail (USB) | OEM (System Builder) | |
|---|---|---|
| Comes with | USB installer and product key | DVD and product key |
| Move to a new PC later | Yes | No – tied to the first PC |
| Best for | Upgrading an existing PC, or if you change computers | A brand-new PC you are building or refurbishing |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
OEM licenses are intended for system builders installing Windows on a new computer. If you expect to replace your computer in a few years and want to keep your license, choose the retail USB version.
Before you buy: check your hardware
Windows 11 requires a compatible 64-bit processor, at least 4 GB of memory, 64 GB of storage, UEFI with Secure Boot capability and a TPM 2.0 security chip. Most computers sold in the last several years meet these requirements. Standard Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Eligible devices enrolled in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program can receive limited security updates temporarily; check enrollment and current eligibility while planning migration.
Available versions
Need Windows for several computers? Request a volume quote and we will price every license together.
Check Microsoft’s system requirements and Windows 10 ESU guidance before buying. License transfer rights depend on the applicable terms; one license cannot remain in use on two PCs.