If you are building a new PC or upgrading an older one, you will need an operating system, usually Windows, unless you plan to install Linux, which is a different article. Spending nearly 10 percent of your build budget on a Windows license stings. With that cash you could add RAM or buy a stronger power supply. The good news is you can run Windows without entering a license key, but that means you lose some updates and you cannot personalize the desktop. If that works for you, no problem. If not, here are six places that sell Windows 11 OEM and retail keys at far lower prices than Microsoft’s retail tag.

Nerdused
Nerdused lists several Windows options at low prices and often bundles Office deals. Their checkout moves fast and the site shows lots of product listings for different regions. They usually keep customer feedback visible on product pages, which helps you see delivery speed and activation reports before buying. If you like simple checkouts and low sticker prices, Nerdused is worth a look.

ProductKeys.com
ProductKeys.com sells Windows 11 Pro and some older Windows SKUs at low double-digit prices at times. They also list Office bundles for under $25 on occasion. The site has a sizable review presence, which gives a quick sense of buyer experiences. Their return window runs for a limited period after purchase, so you get a measure of buyer protection if a key fails.

Gamers-Outlet.net
Gamers-Outlet.net packs a lot of value for PC builders and gamers. Home and Pro listings sometimes fall into the single digits, and the store stocks game keys and software bundles as well. Delivery tends to come by email and many buyers report smooth activations and fast key delivery. If you buy here, scan the regional reviews because results can vary by location.

PremiumCDKeys
PremiumCDKeys often lists Windows 11 OEM keys at very low prices, and their bundle deals with Office make the combined cost even smaller. Their product pages include refund terms and a history of buyer feedback that you can read before purchasing. If you want the cheapest OEM option and you accept some variability in license origin, PremiumCDKeys frequently appears on bargain lists.

PCGamesKey
PCGamesKey lists Windows 11 Pro keys at only a few dollars in many of their product entries. They offer a broad catalog of software and game keys, which lets you combine purchases if you want both Windows and Office in one checkout. Their review profile shows active buyers and a track record of successful activations for many customers.

Sftkey
TurnKeyPoint shows double digit listings for Windows 11 Home and Pro in several currencies. They highlight post-sale help on some pages and advertise a money-back guarantee for problematic keys. If you prefer stores that emphasize support after purchase, Sftkey focuses on answering activation questions.

A few quick notes to keep in mind when you buy cheap keys

• License type matters. Many low-cost keys are OEM or volume-derived. OEM keys typically tie to a single machine. Retail keys transfer more easily but cost more. Read the product listing to know which type you are buying.
• Check recent reviews for the exact listing and your region. Review sites show delivery speed and whether support helped when activations hiccuped. Look for recent buyer comments rather than old ones.
• Save proof of purchase. Keep your receipt and a screenshot of the key delivery email until activation succeeds. That documentation helps if you need a refund.
• Expect variability. Third-party key sellers offer big savings, but results vary by listing and region. Some buyers have flawless activations, others need support to resolve issues.
• If you need guaranteed full Windows Update support and full licensing compliance, buy from Microsoft or an authorized retailer. That path costs more but removes uncertainty.

If you want the thrill of squeezing extra performance from a tight budget, hunting a good key can feel like finding loose change on the couch. If you want total peace of mind instead, plan to buy direct from an official store and move on to picking your RGB fans.