Microsoft
Windows 98: Second Edition
Bottom line: The Microsoft Windows 98: Second Edition: Includes a product key, so you can activate the install; main trade-off: maximum PC found no major new features over Windows 95.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Includes a product key, so you can activate the install
- ✓ Disc listed in excellent condition
- ✓ Updated Internet networking over the original Windows 98
- ✓ Better hardware support, suited to retro PC builds
- ✓ Improved system diagnostics and utilities for troubleshooting
Cons
- ✗ Maximum PC found no major new features over Windows 95
- ✗ Performance gains are minor tweaks, not a big jump
- ✗ Used disc; check the seller listing for current condition
- ✗ Legacy OS; check period driver support for your hardware first
Manufacturer description
Product descriptionDisc is in excellent condition. Product key is included.Amazon.comThe possibilities of your PC expand with Windows 98 Second Edition. Performance increases with improved system diagnostics, the latest graphics, high-quality sound, and multi-media technology. The Second Edition updates Internet networking, hardware, and entertainment.From Maximum PC -- Subscribe now!With no earth-shattering new features, the latest revision of Windows, Windows 98, sells itself merely as a spit-shined version of Windows 95. Beyond minor performance tweaks and better system utilities, little…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Microsoft Windows 98: Second Edition using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro software & media category. Microsoft's retro software & media lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for retro software & media of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Full Specifications
| Brand | Microsoft |
|---|---|
| IsAdultProduct | false |
| ItemPartNumber | 730-00847 |
Ready to buy?
Windows 98: Second Edition is vintage hardware; the used and vintage market on eBay carries most of the live inventory. Prices and condition vary by seller and move in real time, so we link the live listing rather than quote a cached price. It also has an Amazon listing — check it for current price and availability. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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