Custom PC Makers May Sell Windows 7 Early

Windows 7! Windows 7! Getcha Windows 7 here!

Sometimes it's tough being the little guy and going up against monolithic corporations like Dell and HP, but every once in a while, there can be a competitive advantage. Windows 7 is set to launch at retail on October 22, but small custom PC makers will be allowed to sell systems with the new OS before the official date.

Puget Systems has been receiving attention around the web for its announcement that it will be selling systems preloaded with Windows 7 on October 13.

"Customers who place orders for a full personal computer system, and who select Microsoft Windows 7 as their OS of choice, will be immediately placed in queue for shipment which will begin in earnest on October 13, 2009," read the notice on Puget System's website. "Orders will be placed in queue on first-come basis and Puget Systems standard shipping policies apply. Place your order early to ensure an early spot in our queue! Shipping dates are not guaranteed."

According to Ars Technica, Jon Bach, president of Puget Systems, after asking Microsoft for Windows 7 launch details, was told that system builders who buy the operating system through distribution channels may sell the new OS as soon as they receive their license keys. This rule, however, does not apply to OEMS and retailers.

So, if you're looking to pick up a new desktop ASAP with Windows 7, it's time to look at the little guys.