• Debatable, considering all that’s stopping you from using it for free is a watermark and lack of personalization options.

    Plus, I’m using the Windows 10 Education key my college gave me, and my Windows 7 Home key from way back in the day would work too, as well as the Windows 8 key that came with my Surface Pro 3. The cost feels like a formality tbh.

      • While I agree with your general point, how is it illegal? If I download the ISO from windows, install and keep using it without activation? They aren’t blocking me from using it and I haven’t circumvented any prevention they have in place. What’s illegal here?

        • If they make it easy for you doesn’t mean it’s legal.

          It’s illegal to use windows without a license. As even stated in the license you agree before installing the os, this one, on section 5 Authorized Software and Activation.

          You are authorized to use this software only if you are properly licensed and the software has been properly activated with a genuine product key or by other authorized method