Windows 10 vs Windows 11: Key Differences
We compare design, performance, requirements and features to help you decide which version to stick with.
Before comparing features and design, there is one fact that outweighs everything else when it comes to deciding.
The most important fact: free support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. Since then, Windows 10 no longer receives free security updates — any new vulnerability discovered from that date onward goes unpatched, unless you enrol in the paid ESU programme (Extended Security Updates), available to individuals until October 2026.
Comparison
| Windows 10 | Windows 11 | |
|---|---|---|
| Free security support | Ended (Oct. 2025) | Active until 2031 or later |
| Hardware requirements | More flexible | TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, recent processor |
| Start menu | Left-aligned, tiles | Centred, no tiles |
| Snap Layouts (window organising) | No | Yes |
| Built-in Copilot | No | Yes |
| Performance on old hardware | Lighter | Somewhat more demanding |
Should you upgrade?
For the vast majority of people with a machine from the last 5-6 years, yes — the security reason alone is usually enough, regardless of whether you prefer the new design or not. First check whether your machine meets the Windows 11 requirements, especially TPM 2.0, which is what rules out the most older machines.
If your machine does NOT meet the requirements and you cannot or do not want to upgrade the hardware, the paid ESU programme is a reasonable temporary option while you decide your next step — not a permanent solution, since it also has an expiry date.
Performance: the real difference
On modern hardware (2020 onward, with an SSD), Windows 11 usually runs the same or slightly better. On older hardware with a mechanical drive or little RAM, Windows 10 can feel a bit snappier — it uses somewhat less memory at idle. For normal everyday use (browsing, office work), the performance difference between the two is minimal on modern machines.
Tip: if your machine meets the requirements, there is no real reason to keep waiting — Windows 11's security advantage outweighs the familiarity of an interface you already know. If the design change worries you, our guide on making Windows 11 look like Windows 10 smooths out that transition quite a bit.
Frequently asked questions
Does Windows 10 still work even though support has ended?
Yes, the machine keeps starting up and running normally. What has ended is the arrival of free security patches — the system stays operational, but grows increasingly exposed over time.
What is the ESU programme and is it worth it?
It is a paid Microsoft programme that extends Windows 10 security updates for those who cannot or do not want to upgrade to Windows 11 yet, available to individuals until October 2026. It is a temporary solution, not a permanent one.
Is Windows 11 much slower on old machines?
It can feel somewhat heavier on machines with a mechanical drive or little RAM, but for normal everyday use on hardware from the last few years, the performance difference versus Windows 10 is minimal.