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Windows 10 vs Windows 11 — Which Is Right for You?
If you are buying a new Windows product key, setting up a new PC or wondering whether to upgrade your existing computer, this guide explains the key differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 in plain English — so you can make the right choice for your situation without getting lost in technical detail.
What Is the Difference Between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Windows 11 is Microsoft's most recent version of Windows, released in October 2021. It introduced a redesigned interface with a centred taskbar, rounded window corners and an updated Start menu. Under the surface, Windows 11 also brought performance improvements, better integration with Microsoft Teams and enhanced security features.
Windows 10 has been Microsoft's main operating system since 2015 and remains very widely used. It is a mature, stable and well-supported operating system that works reliably on a very wide range of hardware. However, Microsoft has announced that mainstream support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025 — after which it will no longer receive security updates.
Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 on 14th October 2025. After this date, computers running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats over time. If your computer is compatible with Windows 11, upgrading before this date is strongly recommended — particularly for business computers.
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 — Comparison
| Windows 10 | Windows 11 | |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Traditional Start menu and taskbar layout | Redesigned with centred taskbar, rounded corners and updated Start menu |
| Security support | Ends October 2025 | Ongoing — the current supported version |
| Hardware requirements | Runs on a wide range of older hardware | Requires TPM 2.0, 64-bit CPU, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage |
| Performance | Stable and well-optimised | Improved on compatible hardware — faster wake from sleep, better memory management |
| Microsoft Teams | Available to install separately | Integrated into the taskbar by default |
| Gaming features | Good gaming support | DirectStorage and Auto HDR for improved gaming on supported hardware |
| Recommended for | Older hardware that cannot run Windows 11 | Any compatible computer — the recommended choice going forward |
Which Should You Choose?
Your computer is compatible
Windows 11 is the recommended choice for any computer that meets the hardware requirements. It is the current version of Windows, will receive ongoing security updates and performs well on compatible hardware. Most computers made after 2018 support it.
Your computer cannot run Windows 11
If your computer does not meet Windows 11's hardware requirements — particularly the TPM 2.0 requirement — then Windows 10 is the appropriate choice. Be aware that security support ends October 2025, so consider whether it is time to upgrade the hardware too.
Does My Computer Support Windows 11?
Windows 11 has specific hardware requirements that some older computers do not meet. The key requirements are:
- Processor — a compatible 64-bit processor. Intel 8th generation or newer, or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, covers most cases.
- RAM — at least 4GB of RAM (8GB or more recommended for a comfortable experience).
- Storage — at least 64GB of available storage. An SSD is strongly recommended for the best performance.
- TPM 2.0 — the most common reason older computers cannot run Windows 11. TPM 2.0 is a security chip required by Windows 11. Most computers made after 2017 have it, but it may need to be enabled in the BIOS on some machines.
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot — required by Windows 11. Most modern computers support this, but older machines with legacy BIOS may not.
Microsoft provide a free tool called PC Health Check that will tell you instantly whether your computer is compatible with Windows 11. Download it from Microsoft's website, run it and it will list any requirements your computer does not currently meet. If you are unsure about the results, contact IT Done Right and we can help you interpret them.
What About Windows Home vs Windows Pro?
Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 come in Home and Pro editions. Here is a quick guide to which is right for you:
- Windows Home — suitable for the vast majority of home users and everyday personal use. Includes everything most people need.
- Windows Pro — includes additional features useful for businesses, including BitLocker drive encryption, Remote Desktop, Group Policy management and the ability to join a Windows domain network. Recommended for business computers.
If you are unsure which edition is right for your situation, contact IT Done Right and we can advise before you order.
Buy Windows Product Keys from IT Done Right
IT Done Right supplies genuine Windows 10 and Windows 11 product keys with digital delivery — your key and activation instructions are sent by email, usually within minutes during opening hours. Browse Windows product keys in the IT Done Right shop, or see our guide on how to activate Windows 11 Home and Pro if you need help with the activation process.
Get in touch with IT Done Right before ordering. Based in Basildon, Essex — happy to help home users and businesses across the UK choose the right Windows licence.