Azure VM License

Question

When we use azure calculator we can select the operating system between linux and windows.

Actually for windows when we create the VM we can select between windows server, windows 10 or windows 11.

So when we estimate VM cost by selecting windows for the OS, this mean all windows version will have same price?

Answer 1

Hi @Stubbs Tristan ,
Thanks for contacting Microsoft Q&A platform.

when estimating the cost of running a virtual machine (VM) in a cloud environment and selecting a Windows operating system (OS), the price can vary depending on several factors, and it's not necessarily the case that all Windows versions will have the same price.

Different editions of Windows, such as Windows Server, Windows 10, Windows 7, etc., have different licensing costs. For example, Windows Server editions tend to be more expensive than client editions like Windows 10.
And as of now the feature of selecting image versions is not available in azure calculator.

You can write a review to the product team using below link where they can take your suggestions and improve the product.

https://feedback.azure.com/d365community

Hope this helps you.

Answer 2

Hi Tristan,

When you estimate using pricing calculator, Windows = Windows Server OS versions. So same price for Windows Server 2016/2019/2022/etc.

For Windows 10 or 11, you need to bring your own license. One example, each user accessing a Windows 11 VM would have Microsoft 365 E3/E5 license, which would give them rights to use Windows 11 in Azure VM.

Please click Accept Answer and upvote if the above was helpful.

Thanks.

-TP