Windows 10 or Windows 11 — which version to choose in 2026

You are wondering whether to stay on Windows 10 or move to Windows 11 now that Windows 10 support ended on 14 October 2025. If your computer has an activated Windows 10 and meets the requirements, moving to Windows 11 is free; you only need a licence for a new or non-activated computer, or if you want a different edition.

The most important point first: Windows 10 support

Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Since then the system has received no free security updates. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme for home users covered only one year, until 13 October 2026; businesses can continue with paid ESU.

Windows 10 still runs and activates normally. But if your hardware allows Windows 11, there is no reason to stay on 10.

The Windows 11 requirements – where many computers fall short

Windows 11 requires:

• a 64-bit 1 GHz processor with at least 2 cores from Microsoft’s approved list – Windows 11 exists only as a 64-bit version;
• 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage;
• TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in UEFI;
• graphics with DirectX 12 support.

TPM 2.0 is the most common reason a computer fails the check. Sometimes it is present but switched off in the BIOS – it is worth checking before you give up. Detailed steps are in our article on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

The quickest check is Microsoft’s PC Health Check app – it shows exactly which component falls short.

What you actually gain with Windows 11

• Support – Windows 11 receives regular security updates and new features.
• Snap Layouts – arranging windows to a template, useful on a wide monitor.
• Better multi-monitor handling – windows remember their place.
• DirectStorage and Auto HDR – noticeable with modern games and a fast SSD.
• Stricter security requirements – TPM and Secure Boot are mandatory, which makes some attacks harder.

If you mainly work in a browser and Office, the day-to-day difference is modest. The main argument is support, not features.

When Windows 10 is still a reasonable choice

• The computer does not meet the Windows 11 requirements and you are not planning to replace it.
• You use specific software or peripherals with drivers for Windows 10 only.
• A second computer that is used rarely and mostly offline.

In all three cases, bear in mind that Windows 10 no longer receives free security updates.

Upgrading – will I lose my files?

When you upgrade an existing system, your files and programs are kept. Even so, make a backup – always.

If Windows 10 on the computer is activated, Windows 11 of the same edition activates automatically after the upgrade. The edition must match: a Home licence does not activate a Pro installation. On a fresh install, Windows 11 Home and Pro require a Microsoft account and an internet connection during initial setup; you can add a local account afterwards under Settings → Accounts.

Which licence you need

If your computer meets the requirements, choose Windows 11 Pro – it gives you BitLocker, Remote Desktop and business management features. Windows 10 Pro is for computers that cannot move to Windows 11.

With both licences the key arrives by email within 15 minutes during working hours, activation goes through Microsoft’s official servers and you receive an invoice. If the key does not activate, we replace it free of charge or refund you.

What to do now

Run PC Health Check. If your computer meets the requirements, get Windows 11 Pro or, for home use without the Pro features, Windows 11 Home. If it does not, Windows 10 Pro will work, but without free security updates – plan for Windows 11 when you next replace the computer.

For the difference between Home and Pro, see our comparison of the two editions or the frequently asked questions. If you have a question, our support answers every day from 09:00 to 20:00.