Buying a PC off-the-shelf offers convenience, but can also offer pre-installed software (or "bloatware). The programs can be unnecessary and may reduce performance, though Microsoft is offering a remedy: "Signature" PCs.

Microsoft has been selling the Signature PCs - customised versions of devices - in 16 retail stores and online, planning to expand to 21 stores. Everything about the PC is retained, such as the brand, but modified to remove programs.

The company is also offering a program for $99 that performs the function if PCs are brought into one of the stores. The Signature PCs include 90 days of free phone support and the option to use "Answer Desks," Microsoft's equivalent to the Apple Store Genius Bar.

"I've been testing three Signature models and comparing them with the same machines as sold elsewhere without the Signature modifications. I found the Signature versions much cleaner and easier to navigate and faster in a variety of tests," Walt Mossberg in The Wall Street Journal reported.

Store locations and information on Signature PCs can be found at microsoftstore.com and signature.microsoft.com respectively. Most of the stores are located in the West Coast of the U.S.

" [...] The hardware makers presumably believe, and some consumers may well agree, that the extra software, utilities, and settings, which Microsoft removes or buries, are beneficial. Some of these, like offers to join games or music services, may be viewed as welcome bonuses," The Wall Street Journal also said. It added services such as the manufacturer's own PC software may be viewed as a "better match" for the hardware. Without the Signature service, programs can be uninstalled or disabled.

Signature machines come with Microsoft's software - e-mail, photos and video programs -, Zune and a "Starter" edition of Microsoft Office that includes Word and Excel.

Programs users don't want can be removed, and competing services - such as the iTunes music service - can be downloaded. A deal made in 2009 requires Microsoft to offer alternative browsers to Internet Explorer, and prompt users if the default is used.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, a Microsoft official said the Signature PCs represent Microsoft's take on Windows.