Which Windows 11 Key Should You Buy?
Every Windows 11 licence below is a one-time purchase with no subscription. The right choice depends on what you need the PC to do and how many machines you are licensing.
Windows 11 Home vs Pro: The Key Differences
Windows 11 Home and Pro share the same desktop, apps, gaming features and security basics. Pro adds tools that matter at work: BitLocker drive encryption, the ability to host Remote Desktop connections, Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox, Group Policy, and joining a domain or Microsoft Entra ID. If you are unsure, our Windows 11 Home vs Pro comparison walks through each feature.
| Feature | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|
| Snap Layouts, Widgets, Microsoft Store, gaming | Yes | Yes |
| Device encryption | Supported hardware | Yes |
| BitLocker with full management | No | Yes |
| Remote Desktop host | No | Yes |
| Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox | No | Yes |
| Group Policy and domain join | No | Yes |
| Local account during setup | Microsoft account required | Easier to set up for work |
What Is Windows 11 N?
Windows 11 N editions are made for the European market. They are identical to the standard editions except that Windows Media Player, the Media and Movies apps and some related media technologies are not pre-installed. You can add them back at any time by installing the free Media Feature Pack from Settings → Apps → Optional features. Choose an N edition only if you specifically need it; for most buyers, the standard edition is simpler.
Windows 11 System Requirements
Windows 11 is 64-bit only and needs newer hardware than Windows 10. Check your PC with Microsoft's PC Health Check app or the official Windows 11 specifications before you buy.
- 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor with 2 or more cores, on Microsoft's supported CPU list
- 4 GB RAM and 64 GB of storage
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0
- DirectX 12 graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver
If your PC doesn't meet these requirements, Windows 10 still installs and activates, but it no longer receives free security updates.
Retail Key, OEM Key or Upgrade Key?
A retail key can be moved to a new PC once it is removed from the old one. An OEM key is tied to the first PC it activates. An upgrade key switches an activated Windows 11 Home PC to Pro in place, keeping your files and apps. Each product page states exactly which type you receive.
How to Install and Activate Windows 11
- Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft and create a bootable USB drive (8 GB or larger).
- Boot from the USB and enter your key when setup asks, or choose "I don't have a product key" and enter it later.
- Choose Custom install for a clean installation, then complete the setup screens.
- Check activation under Settings → System → Activation.
Our guides show every screen: install and activate Windows 11 Pro and install and activate Windows 11 Home.
Why Buy From Microsoft Software Swap?
- Genuine licences that activate online through the publisher's own servers.
- Instant email delivery of your key, download link and invoice, usually within minutes.
- 30-day money-back guarantee if the licence doesn't work for you.
- Lifetime replacement warranty: if an activated key ever stops working, we replace it free.
- 24/7 email support for installation and activation, plus step-by-step installation guides.
Windows 11 Key FAQ
How much does a Windows 11 Pro key cost?
Prices on this page are a fraction of Microsoft's retail price, and each key is a one-time purchase with no renewal. Pro costs a little more than Home because it adds BitLocker, Remote Desktop hosting and Hyper-V.
Can I use a Windows 11 Pro key on Windows 10 Pro?
Yes. Windows 10 Pro and Windows 11 Pro keys are generally interchangeable for activation on compatible hardware.
Can I upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro without reinstalling?
Yes. Enter a Pro or Home-to-Pro upgrade key under Settings → System → Activation → Change product key. Your files and apps stay in place.
Can I use one Windows 11 key on multiple computers?
No. A standard key activates one PC. For several machines, choose the Windows 11 Pro 3-PC licence or the MAK volume key.
Can I install Windows 11 without a product key?
Yes. You can install first and activate later, but personalisation settings stay locked until Windows is activated.
What happens if my key stops working?
Contact our support team. Every key is covered by our lifetime replacement warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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