Microsoft has acknowledged the sluggish performance of Windows 11’s File Explorer and is taking steps to address this concern. The company recently introduced a preloading feature designed to enhance the speed at which File Explorer opens, allowing it to be ready for use almost instantly. Initial tests have shown that this new process does indeed result in a faster launch compared to the non-preloaded version, consuming approximately 30MB of additional RAM—a relatively minor increase in the grand scheme of system resources.
However, the improvements in Windows 11’s File Explorer still fall short when compared to its predecessor, Windows 10. Recent evaluations conducted by Windows Latest revealed that even without the preloading update, Windows 10’s File Explorer outperforms the preloaded version of Windows 11 in both opening and closing speeds. This raises a significant challenge for Microsoft as it seeks to encourage users to transition to the newer operating system.
Performance Insights
The testing highlighted a few key points:
- The preloaded File Explorer in Windows 11 opens faster than its non-preloaded counterpart, particularly when the system is under heavy load.
- Despite these enhancements, Windows 10’s File Explorer remains quicker, which could deter users from upgrading to Windows 11.
- This performance gap may hinder the adoption of Windows 11, keeping many users firmly anchored to Windows 10.
Microsoft faces a pivotal moment in its efforts to promote Windows 11. With reports indicating that a substantial number of PCs are compatible with the new operating system yet remain on Windows 10, the company must address the performance issues that could be a barrier to adoption. The recent preloading update is a positive move, but it appears that further enhancements are necessary to match or exceed the responsiveness of Windows 10’s File Explorer.
As Microsoft navigates this landscape, the question remains: can they elevate Windows 11’s File Explorer to a level that not only meets but surpasses the expectations set by Windows 10? The journey ahead may require more than just incremental updates; it may demand a reimagining of user experience to win over those who are hesitant to make the switch.
