[H-GEN] Avoiding the microsoft tax and laptops

[Anthony Irwin]

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Hi,

I am thinking about getting a new laptop (new or second hand) and went
into a Harvey Norman Store and said that I wouldn't be using the Windows
operating system and therefore did not want it on the laptop or be
included in the cost.

I said that I was willing to have something ordered in. I was basically
told that they where unable to do anything like that and all computers
came with windows.

I said that from memory the microsoft EULA states that if i did not
agree to their license agreement to return it to the place of purchase
for a full refund. I said I do not agree to the license agreement and
wish to return it for a refund before receiving it.

They told me that the oem license was different and could not be
refunded, I asked to see the license agreement so I could see if I
agreed to it and they told me they where unable to show me the license
agreement for the products they where selling.

I do not wish to pay the microsoft tax and am wondering if anyone knows
the best way to get a laptop computer without windows and what laptops
are best to run on Linux, I want a laptop with the rectangle mouse pad.

I am thinking about finding a copy of the microsoft windows license
agreement and highlighting the parts that say I can receive a refund if
I do not agree to the agreement and trying again but it seems like a
waste of time.

At the moment I haven't fully decided whether I am going to get a laptop
and am getting prices etc. looking at new vs second hand, if anyone
knows of a way to get a decent and cheap second hand laptop could you
please let me know.


Kind Regards,
Anthony Irwin


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