Windows 8 upgrade to cost just $39.99

Microsoft just revealed the Windows 8 upgrade prices at The Windows Blog. Upgrades will be cheaper than ever, users running Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 will be able to download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for just $39.99 in 131 markets, and receive the Windows Media Center addon for free.

An optical disc isn't included in this time-limited deal though, users can create their own bootable USB or DVD disc, or purchase one from Microsoft for $15 plus shipping and handling. The retail versions of the Windows 8 Pro upgrade will cost even more, it will set you back $69.99. Both deals run through January 31st, 2013.

We set out to make it as easy as possible for everyone to upgrade to Windows 8. Starting at general availability, if your PC is running Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 you will qualify to download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for just $39.99 in 131 markets. And if you want, you can add Windows Media Center for free through the “add features” option within Windows 8 Pro after your upgrade.

When you use Windows.com to purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro, the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant makes upgrading simple by walking you through the upgrade process step-by-step from purchase to download and then of course installation.

For new PC buyers the upgrade to Windows 8 may be even cheaper, as there's currently a promotion on some new Windows 7 PCs shipping since June 2 for a $14.99 upgrade to Windows 8 Pro.