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