The tech world never fails to surprise us, and it seems AMD is playing an interesting game with their Ryzen 7000 series of mobile CPUs, particularly the Mendocino-based chips like the Ryzen 3 7320U and Ryzen 5 7520U. If you’re trying to install Windows 10 on these CPUs, you’re about to hit an unexpected roadblock. But let’s break down what this drama between AMD and Windows 10 is all about and how it could impact users.
For instance:
For AMD, these restrictions appear tied to:
For Windows Forum users, the takeaway is simple: if you’re still sticking with Windows 10, double-check compatibility with new hardware before buying. Moreover, consider whether it’s time to take the leap to Windows 11 or explore Linux—because the era of Windows 10-first hardware is rapidly coming to a close.
Source: Neowin AMD doesn't want you installing Windows 10 on these Ryzen PCs despite Microsoft's support
The Core of the Conflict: Operating System Support
So, what’s the fuss about? AMD's popular Ryzen 7000 series, specifically the Mendocino-based models, isn’t officially supported on Windows 10. Despite Microsoft listing these processors in their official Windows 10 supported CPU list, AMD explicitly marks them as Windows 11-only in their documentation.AMD's Stance
AMD has noted on their product specifications pages that these CPUs, including the Ryzen 3 7320U and Ryzen 5 7520U, only support Windows 11 (64-bit) and Linux distributions like Ubuntu (x86, 64-bit). Windows 10 is conspicuously absent from the compatibility list. For example:- Ryzen 3 7320U OS Support:
- Windows 11 - 64-Bit Edition
- Ubuntu x86 - 64-Bit
Here’s Where it Gets Confusing
AMD’s Mendocino APUs use the Zen 2 architecture for their CPU core. Historically, we’ve seen Zen 2-based processors like the Ryzen 5 4500U handle Windows 10 with ease. Even more perplexing, AMD explicitly provides Windows 10 drivers for older chips with similar architecture. To add insult to injury (or rather confusion), Mendocino’s sibling chips within the Ryzen 7000 lineup seem perfectly fine supporting both Windows 10 and Windows 11.For instance:
- Non-Mendocino Ryzen 7000 CPUs:
- Windows 11 - 64-Bit Edition
- Windows 10 - 64-Bit Edition
- Ubuntu & RHEL Linux Distributions
Who’s Right—AMD or Microsoft?
From Microsoft’s end, the Ryzen 7320U and 7520U appear in their official Windows 10 supported processor list. This suggests that, technically, these processors meet Windows 10's requirements. If the hardware supports Windows 10 and the OS maker vouches for it, why would AMD block or fail to officially endorse compatibility?For AMD, these restrictions appear tied to:
- Driver Support Discontinuation: AMD has been phasing out new driver updates for Windows 10.
- Marketing Push Towards Windows 11: As Windows 11 adoption grows, AMD seems intent on positioning Mendocino exclusively in the "Windows 11" camp, potentially nudged by industry trends or commercial deals.
What This Means for Users
Are you considering purchasing a budget-friendly laptop with a Ryzen 3 7320U or Ryzen 5 7520U CPU? Here’s what you need to know:- Windows 10 Installation is Possible But Not Recommended
While you could technically install Windows 10 on these chips given Microsoft’s compatibility acknowledgment, the lack of official AMD support means driver availability could be limited. This could result in sub-optimal performance or missing features (like certain power and thermal management capabilities). - Potential DIY Driver Workarounds
Enthusiasts might find ways to force older AMD Zen 2-compatible drivers onto Mendocino systems running Windows 10. Though this might work for basic operation, long-term stability and support remain a concern. - Linux as an Alternative
If you’re not inclined towards Windows 11, AMD does officially support Linux distributions like Ubuntu for these processors. Linux users might fare better with AMD's Mendocino APUs, as AMD generally provides robust Linux drivers. - Windows 11 is the Future
While Windows 10 remains officially supported by Microsoft until October 2025, AMD’s move reflects the broader industry trend of pushing Windows 11 as the standard. Anyone hanging onto Windows 10 might eventually face increasing compatibility challenges across new hardware.
Why This Matters: Implications Beyond the CPUs
This issue isn’t just about Mendocino chips—it’s a reflection of larger industry dynamics:- End-of-Life for Windows 10: AMD’s Mendocino strategy underscores the shift away from Windows 10 as end-of-life looms. Newer hardware increasingly assumes Windows 11 as the default OS.
- Fragmentation in Compatibility: The inconsistency between AMD’s documentation and Microsoft’s supported CPU list is a wake-up call. Users need to take extra caution when evaluating hardware for older OS versions.
- Confusion in Product Lineups: AMD’s Ryzen lineup is already a bit of a maze with overlapping architectures and naming conventions. Plus, Mendocino chips label themselves as part of the "Ryzen 7000" series but feature older-generation Zen 2 cores, making it harder for consumers to understand what they’re getting.
Final Thoughts: Where Do We Go From Here?
AMD’s decision to limit Mendocino CPUs to Windows 11 may frustrate users who prefer Windows 10, but the signal is clear: the tech world is moving onwards. Mendocino processors are positioned as budget-friendly, modern-day solutions, and AMD seems uninterested (or unable) to expend resources ensuring full Windows 10 compatibility.For Windows Forum users, the takeaway is simple: if you’re still sticking with Windows 10, double-check compatibility with new hardware before buying. Moreover, consider whether it’s time to take the leap to Windows 11 or explore Linux—because the era of Windows 10-first hardware is rapidly coming to a close.
Source: Neowin AMD doesn't want you installing Windows 10 on these Ryzen PCs despite Microsoft's support