“674M views and they still don’t get the message”: Windows 10 users still aren’t sold on Windows 11

The most-watched video on Microsoft’s official Windows YouTube channel serves as a stark reminder of the company’s push for users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. With an astonishing 674 million views since its release on October 31, 2025, the video essentially functions as an advertisement, urging users to embrace the newer operating system. In a curious twist, this promotional content has garnered approximately 48 times more views than the introductory video for Windows 11, which has only around 14 million views. The top comment, highlighted in a Linus Tech Tips video, encapsulates the sentiments of many users: “674M views, 825 likes and they still don’t get the message.”

Despite Microsoft’s efforts to encourage an upgrade, a significant number of users remain steadfastly attached to Windows 10. The reasons for this reluctance are multifaceted, with hardware compatibility being a primary concern. Windows 11 mandates specific requirements such as TPM 2.0, UEFI with Secure Boot, and a supported 64-bit processor. Consequently, many PCs that currently run Windows 10 efficiently are unable to officially upgrade. One user poignantly remarked, “Hey jst quick question, what if I’m broke,” highlighting the financial strain many face amidst rising RAM and storage costs driven by AI advancements.

Windows 10 users still have good reasons to resist Windows 11

Another significant issue lies in the RAM usage of Windows 11, which has been criticized for being a memory hog. Microsoft itself has acknowledged this problem, with Windows chief Pavan Davuluri citing the increasing cost of memory as a reason for ongoing improvements. Users have expressed their frustrations in the comments, with one stating, “We’ll never forget what you’ve taken from us.”

Moreover, Windows 11 continues to experience a higher frequency of bugs compared to its predecessor, Windows 10, which is generally regarded as stable. A comparison of features reveals some stark differences:

Feature Windows 10 Windows 11
Hardware requirements Supports many older PCs Requires TPM 2.0 and a supported CPU
RAM usage Often lighter on older PCs Higher demands on some PCs; improving
Local account setup Available during setup Microsoft account required by default
Taskbar flexibility Drag to move and resize Reposition through Settings
Setup experience Fewer setup prompts More prompts and online requirements
Ads and upsells Some recommendations More visible promotions and suggestions
AI integration Less integrated AI More Copilot and AI features
Security updates ESU through October 2027 Ongoing support

In light of these challenges, some users have even suggested alternatives, with one comment advocating for a switch to “Windows 10 LTSC or Linux.”

Windows 11 looks better, but Microsoft took away what worked

While it is true that Windows 11 boasts a more aesthetically pleasing design, many users feel that Microsoft has sacrificed functionality in the process. The initial reception of Windows 10 was far from enthusiastic, with critiques highlighting inconsistencies in the user interface. When Windows 11 was unveiled in 2021, Microsoft promised a design that was “modern, fresh, clean and beautiful,” aiming to create a sense of calm and ease. Ironically, achieving this vision meant eliminating features that users had come to appreciate, such as the movable taskbar.

Although the movable taskbar has returned after a five-year absence, it still lacks the flexibility that users enjoyed in Windows 10. Many find themselves constrained by the need to navigate through settings to reposition the taskbar, a cumbersome process that detracts from user experience. Setting up Windows 11 has also proven to be a tedious endeavor, with users facing numerous upsells and prompts that extend the installation time significantly compared to Windows 10.

Microsoft is fixing Windows 11, but it has a perception problem

Microsoft has acknowledged the need for improvements and has committed to enhancing the performance of Windows 11. In a recent blog post, the company reported that the operating system is now up to 20% more responsive in key areas like Start, Search, Settings, and File Explorer. Additionally, users with 8GB of RAM can now manage up to 2GB more active data in memory, and background preloading of Widgets has been eliminated on lower-spec PCs, freeing up valuable resources.

Despite these advancements, the perception of Windows 11 remains a significant hurdle. The legacy of complaints regarding RAM usage, missing features, and the prevalence of upsells has left a lasting impression on users. Until Windows 11 can convincingly demonstrate that it offers a lighter, more efficient experience than its predecessor, the sentiment expressed in that widely viewed video will likely continue to resonate among the Windows community.

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"674M views and they still don't get the message": Windows 10 users still aren't sold on Windows 11