Posted by Chris Scott Barr on Oct 26, 2012

Microsoft is really hoping that Windows 8 will be just as successful, if not more so than Windows 7. They’re making the process easy by offering cheap upgrades to Windows 8 Pro. Currently, you can use their Upgrade Assistant, and receive an offer for $40 But that’s not the cheapest that you’ll find it.

By heading over to the Windows Upgrade Offer site, those that have purchased a new PC recently can get an upgrade copy of Windows 8 Pro for just $15. Now I know what you’re thinking. Most people haven’t purchased a new computer in the last month or so. So why am I making it sound like this is a big deal? Because they’re not actually checking to see if you actually did buy a new PC.

I did recently build a new machine, so when I went to the page, I listed my date of purchase, (October 3rd) retailer, (Newegg) PC Brand, (Other) and PC Model (my motherboard is made by MSI, so I just listed that). I was then sent an email with a promo code. Then, after downloading the Upgrade Assistant and running it, I was given that same $40 upgrade offer. At checkout, I entered the promo code given to me, and paid my $15. I then received my shiny new Windows 8 Pro Upgrade key. At no point was I asked for a receipt or any sort of proof that I’d ordered a new PC.

So from the looks of it, Microsoft is really wanting people to upgrade. Perhaps if they believe people are abusing this method, they’ll add in some sort of verification process. But until then, you should be able to get a cheap upgrade key. You’ll still need to either download the installation files, but that’s not a big deal.

UPDATE: It looks like you may be asked for your current Windows key if you enter a “date of purchase” that is prior to October 1st. Anything later than that, and you shouldn’t have any issues.