Microsoft has made a striking assertion regarding the performance of its latest operating system, claiming that laptops and desktop PCs running Windows 11 are “up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs.” This announcement comes just before the end of support deadline for Windows 10, which has left many users vulnerable as the decade-old operating system will no longer receive critical security patches and bug fixes.
For those still relying on Windows 10, which estimates suggest includes around 5 million Britons, the implications of this transition are significant. The risks associated with using an unsupported operating system are particularly concerning for individuals who engage in online banking, manage sensitive financial data, or store personal photographs. Cybercriminals may exploit the vulnerabilities inherent in Windows 10, and with Microsoft no longer providing updates, users are left exposed.
Options for Windows 10 Users
As Windows 10 reaches its end of support, users are faced with several choices. One prominent option is to upgrade to Windows 11, which Microsoft touts as offering impressive performance enhancements. The claim of a 2.3x speed increase is based on benchmarking data from Geekbench 6, comparing a new Windows 11 laptop against older Windows 10 systems. However, this comparison has drawn some criticism, as it juxtaposes modern hardware with machines that are nearly a decade old.
For those contemplating a switch, Microsoft suggests that 2025 could be the “year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.” While the performance figures are enticing, it’s essential to note that users upgrading existing Windows 10 devices may not experience the same level of improvement. In fact, some may find that their current hardware cannot even support the new operating system.
Since the introduction of Windows 11, the minimum system requirements have sparked controversy, with estimates indicating that around 240 million working machines could be rendered obsolete. Nevertheless, Microsoft is offering a free upgrade to Windows 11 for users with a legitimate copy of Windows 10, although the transition may not be seamless for everyone.
With the termination of support for Windows 10 on October 14, Microsoft has begun rolling out Windows 11 Version 25H2. This update promises a smoother installation experience than previous versions, utilizing an “enablement package” approach that allows for a quick restart rather than a lengthy installation process. As Microsoft’s Jason Leznek noted, this new method aims to minimize disruption for users.
The upcoming 25H2 update will also introduce several features designed to enhance user experience. A redesigned Start menu will allow for better organization of applications into categories such as creative tools, games, and social media, facilitating quicker access. Additionally, a new CPU throttling feature will help reduce power consumption during idle periods, extending battery life for laptops and decreasing energy use for desktops.
In a bid to encourage users to transition to Windows 11, Microsoft will provide free security updates to any Windows 10 user who subscribes to OneDrive cloud backup. For those who choose not to subscribe, a one-time fee of £22 will be required to maintain security updates. Despite this temporary solution, the company is clearly advocating for an upgrade to Windows 11.
However, the decision to switch is not straightforward for all users. Some have reported that Windows 10 offers superior gaming performance in certain scenarios, which may deter gamers from making the leap to Windows 11. Compatibility issues with specific accessories or software could also pose challenges for those considering the upgrade.
