Where to get separate Visual C++ compiler for Windows SDK 8?

Question

In Windows SDK 8 "Visual C++ Compilers and C Runtime (CRT)" was removed:

The following items were either changed or removed from this version of the Windows SDK.

1. Command-line Build Environment The Windows SDK no longer ships with a complete command-line build environment. The Windows SDK now requires a compiler and build environment to be installed separately.

Where can I get these separately, without downloading Visual Studio? I want to get old command line build environment, but can't find download link.

Answer 1

http://www.visualstudio.com/downloads/download-visual-studio-vs#d-express-windows-8

This is the Express edition page for Visual Studio 2013. These can all be installed at the same time to give Web/Store/Desktop/Console based application development.

They can be used for commercial purposes and also download as ISO files for reinstall at a later time.

You can install the desktop version and select what components to install to get a copy of the visual C++ compiler installed. This applies for the 2010 editions as well.

Answer 2

The Command-line build environment is now available as the Visual C++ 2015 Build Tools and can be downloaded from here

These tools allow you to build C++ libraries and applications targeting Windows desktop. They are the same tools that you find in Visual Studio 2015 in a scriptable standalone installer. Now you only need to download the tools you need to build C++ projects.