Don’t buy into Microsoft’s “Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs” claim — Here’s why it’s stretching the truth

As the countdown to October 14, 2025, continues, Microsoft finds itself at a pivotal juncture with its flagship operating system, Windows 10, approaching its “End of Life.” The company is actively promoting Windows 11, urging users to upgrade to safeguard against the risks associated with running unsupported software. While the impending cutoff date has been on the radar since 2021, the urgency is palpable as Windows 10 enthusiasts face dwindling options.

In a recent development, Microsoft introduced its “Extended Security Updates” (ESU) program, which will be available at no cost for users who sync their Windows 10 settings to the cloud via a Microsoft Account, extending support until 2026. This initiative offers a lifeline to those who prefer not to transition to Windows 11, although it may not be a feasible option for everyone.

For those who remain skeptical about upgrading, a campaign titled “Stay secure with Windows 11” has emerged on Microsoft’s official Windows Experience blog. While it highlights several advantages, including enhanced performance, some claims warrant scrutiny. Notably, the controversial TPM 2.0 requirement for improved security has been a sticking point for many users since its announcement four years ago, leaving a significant portion of the audience unable to comply.

Performance Claims Under the Microscope

The campaign emphasizes speed and efficiency, boasting a “quicker response time when in sleep mode, faster web browsing, and overall improved performance” compared to Windows 10. However, one assertion stands out:

“In fact, Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs.”

Microsoft

To substantiate this claim, Microsoft references testing conducted in December 2024 using Geekbench 6, comparing a selection of Windows 10 PCs equipped with Intel’s 6th, 8th, and 10th generation processors against Windows 11 machines powered by Intel’s 12th and 13th generation chips. This generational distinction is crucial, as performance can vary significantly based on hardware and usage.

While installing Windows 10 on modern Intel Core CPUs typically presents no major compatibility issues, Microsoft’s testing appears to favor newer processors, potentially skewing the performance comparisons. A Dell Inspiron 7590 from 2019, for instance, equipped with an Intel Core i7-8565U, may not stack up against a more recent model like the Inspiron 7430, which features a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U.

Despite the marketing narrative, savvy users recognize that the performance gap is influenced by various factors, including the age and specifications of the hardware in question. The term “Windows 10 PC” encompasses a broad spectrum of devices, and while upgrading to Windows 11 is possible for many, the reality is that performance metrics can be misleading without context.

Ultimately, while Windows 11 is positioned as the modern successor to Windows 10, the differences in performance may not be as pronounced as advertised. Users are encouraged to approach claims of enhanced speed with a discerning eye, particularly when the phrase “up to” is employed. In the world of technology, where advancements are rapid, understanding the nuances of performance claims is essential for making informed decisions.

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