Microsoft Windows XP Crocs Sweepstakes is Open Now

Microsoft originally offered these to employees for 80 dollars in August, and internal stock moved fast. Now they’re sweepstakes-only with no confirmed plans for public retail sales.

To enter, follow Microsoft on Instagram and comment with the hashtag #MicrosoftCrocSweepstakes on their official sweepstakes post. No purchase necessary, but you need an Instagram account. The sweepstakes closes October 7 at 11:59 PM PDT.

The Bliss wallpaper was photographed in Sonoma County in 1996 and became Windows XP’s default desktop in 2001. It’s one of the most viewed photographs in history, making it instantly recognizable for anyone who used a computer in the early 2000s.

You can check Microsoft’s official rules for the sweepstakes here. Their wording around the number of prizes is a little unclear; they seem to imply that only one pair will be given away, but they also make repeated references to multiple winners.

In any case, this is worth going for. Previous employee-exclusive Microsoft Windows XP Crocs are reselling for around $150, netting resellers about $70 after fees. This drop will be even more lucrative as you’ll receive your pair of Crocs for free.

If you win, keep the complete bundle together. Don’t separate the Crocs from the Jibbitz or backpack since collectors want the full package. List them fast and enjoy the profits.

The only risk would be Microsoft potentially opening these up for public retail sales later. Some reports suggested a wider release was always planned, though nothing’s confirmed. If they announce retail availability, early resale prices will drop immediately. For now, they’re sweepstakes-exclusive which creates scarcity and short-term hype.

This is worth the two minutes it takes to enter. Worst case you don’t win and lost nothing. Best case you can make a flip for clean profit on a genuinely limited Microsoft anniversary item.