Iteca BalticLTTo the shop →
Home › Guides › ESD or BOX

ESD or BOX licence: the difference and which to choose

When buying Microsoft or other software you have to choose between an ESD (digital) and a BOX (physical) licence. Both are genuine and activate identically — the only difference is how you receive them.

What an ESD licence is

ESD (Electronic Software Delivery) is a digital licence. After payment you receive the activation key and installation instructions by email, with nothing shipped physically. It is the fastest route and often cheaper.

What a BOX licence is

BOX is a physical package containing the licence key, often with USB or DVD media. It is delivered by courier or parcel locker. Suitable if you want physical packaging or installation media.

Comparison

ESD (digital)BOX (physical)
DeliveryBy email, about 1 business dayCourier or parcel locker, 1–3 business days
MediaKey by email onlyBox, USB or DVD
Documents / VAT invoice
PriceOften lowerIncludes physical media

And how do OEM and Retail differ?

That is the other important distinction. An OEM licence is tied to the motherboard of the first computer and cannot be transferred — which is why it costs less. Retail (FPP) and usually ESD licences can be moved to another device. If you change computers often, choose Retail or ESD.

Not sure which licence to choose?

Write or call +370 606 03553 — we will help you pick the right edition. All Iteca Baltic licences are genuine and come with purchase documents.

Go to the shop →
Read also: Windows 11 Home or Pro — how to choose? Office 2024 or Microsoft 365 — what to choose? All Microsoft licences in the shop