This looks like an AI generated article.

Not to completely dismiss it but just be wary that I don’t know how much of it is actually fact checked. You may not be able to do this for any of em.

I didn't even think of doing this.

Thanks for this, maybe too late as I'm a year down the line on a new laptop. It would be great to challenge those who sell refurbished PCs also, they generally refuse to sell without a windows install. Arguing that I'm a Linux user just didn't matter, needless to say I didn't pursue this route (although it was preferred as I'm happy to run a lightweight OS, reduce E waste etc.).

Better idea:
Buy pc from big box store
Return it because you can't use it without creating a windows account online
Repeat once a month at every store in town until they know you by name

I did this too years ago, with varying levels of success.

Now I just buy Linux laptops instead - dell at work, Tuxedo computers for personal use. Less worry about supported hardware that way too.

Interesting. I should consider selling my pro key. Or just give it away. Any loss in profits is good