What is a white box item?

Here is a good description of Retail, Bare, OEM, and Bulk (Brown / White box):


http://www.googlegear.com/ggweb/jsp/Service/OEM.jsp

Product Version/Packaging:
Retail, Bare, OEM, Bulk (White/Brown Box)

Retail
The "Retail" version of a product is what you would expect to see on a store's shelf. It is intended for an end-user, and is usually packaged in a fancy box along with a user's manual and sometimes "extras" such as a software bundle.

Bare Products
Drives are usually the only products that we might sell as "bare." Bare drives have a great price, but do not come with cables, drivers, or other software--unless stated otherwise. In addition, generally bare drives are packaged only in an antistatic bag, not a box, and come with minimal or no user instructions. In many cases, however, a user's manual can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. (If you require a user's manual we recommend that you double check that before you buy.)

OEM & Bulk Pack products
The Bulk and OEM versions of a product also have some variations from the retail version, but usually a much better price. If you are considering a bulk or OEM version, it is a good idea to compare specifications with the retail version to find out exactly what the differences are. There is one difference that is fairly consistent, however, and that is the packaging. Bulk and OEM products do not come in fancy packaging. They may come in a plain White Box or Brown Box, or simply in anti-static wrap or plastic.

Most common differences between OEM & Retail
(Note! Sometimes these differences apply to Bulk products too.)

OEM products may come with an abridged or no user's manual. If you order an OEM product and find you need more installation information, you can usually get what you need from the manufacturer's website.

OEM products may not come with a software bundle. Customers who opt for OEM in such a situation sometimes prefer a different type of software than the one bundled, or may feel they will not use the software (such as a game).

Many manufacturers will not offer full technical support to end users who have purchased OEM products. Part of what you pay for when you purchase retail hardware is technical support, should you need it. That cost is not included in the price of OEM products.

An OEM product may have a different warranty period. This is not normally the case, except with CPUs. Usually the retail version of a CPU has a 3 year warranty, while the OEM version's warranty only lasts between 30 days and 1 year.

The Bottom Line
Purchasing a bulk or OEM product is a great way to save money--especially if you are knowledgable about computers. Just make sure you understand how the product differs from the retail version.

First answer by ID2806011208. Last edit by ID2806011208. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]