Licence Types Explained: Retail, OEM, Volume Licence and BIND
Retail, OEM, volume licence, BIND: behind these terms is the same Microsoft software – with different rules for activation and transfer. Here you can find out what each licence type means and which one suits you.
All licence types at a glance
| Retail | OEM | Volume licence (MAK) | BIND (account) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Available for | Windows | Windows | Windows, Office | Office Home, Home & Business |
| Activation | product key | product key | product key | redeemed in your Microsoft account |
| Microsoft account required | no | no | no | yes |
| Transferable to a new PC | yes, one device at a time | no, tied to the first device | see below | yes, via the account |
| Features | identical – it is the same software | |||
Retail: the flexible full version
The retail licence is the classic shop version. You activate it with the product key and may later move it to a new computer – as long as it is only ever active on one device at a time. Ideal if you plan to replace your PC in the foreseeable future. Our guide to transferring your licence shows you how.
OEM: affordable, but tied to one device
OEM licences are intended for manufacturers and PC builders. There is no difference in functionality, but after the first activation the licence belongs to that exact device. This is the right choice if you are building a new PC and plan to keep it for a long time.
Volume licence (MAK): activate directly, without an account
Volume licences come from Microsoft's programme for businesses. A MAK key (Multiple Activation Key) is activated online with Microsoft – without a Microsoft account and without a subscription. Office Standard and Professional Plus are available exclusively as volume licences. If you have questions about changing devices, our support team will help you.
BIND: linked to your Microsoft account
You redeem Office Home and Office Home & Business once in your Microsoft account. After that, the licence stays in your account permanently: you can download Office again at any time, for example after changing PCs – on a Mac too.
Which licence suits you?
- You change devices often: Retail or BIND.
- A new PC you plan to keep for a long time: OEM or volume licence – affordable and active immediately.
- No Microsoft account wanted: Retail, OEM or volume licence.
- Mac: Office Home or Home & Business (BIND), or Office Standard for Mac.
Frequently asked questions
Is an OEM or volume licence worse than Retail?
No. It is the same software with the same features and the same updates. Only the rules for activation and transfer differ.
Do any of these licences expire after a while?
No. Retail, OEM, volume licence and BIND are perpetual licences with no expiry date. Only Microsoft 365 is a subscription with a fixed term.
Will I receive an invoice?
Yes. You receive an invoice showing VAT for every order.
What should I do if activation doesn't work?
Use our activation help or write to us – we'll help you personally.
