Why 60% of Users Still Choose Windows 10 Over Windows 11

As we traverse the ever-evolving landscape of operating systems, Windows 11 has made its entrance with the fanfare typical of a major tech upgrade. Yet, here’s the kicker: three years post-launch, more than 60% of Windows users worldwide still cling to Windows 10. So, what gives? Why are so many folks opting for the tried-and-tested over the shiny new?

Windows 11’s Struggles​

Windows 11 aimed to bring fresh features and improved aesthetics, but its adoption hasn't skyrocketed as expected. The reality is that change can be daunting, especially when the upgrade comes packaged with complex requirements. Many users find their current hardware mismatched for Windows 11's stringent system requirements — specifically, a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 chip and recent CPUs, which precludes a significant number of desktops and laptops from making the leap to the latest OS.

Reasons for Sticking with Windows 10​

1. Feature Satisfaction: For many users, Windows 10 includes all the functionalities they need to get their work done efficiently. This includes solid gaming support, various productivity applications, and compatibility with a myriad of peripherals and software.
2. Support Until 2025: Microsoft has committed to supporting Windows 10 until October 2025. This assurance provides a safety net for users who prefer stability over the unknowns of a new OS. Why gamble with an upgrade when your current system is receiving all necessary security updates?
3. Compatibility Concerns: Once you’ve embedded a particular software suite into your workflow, the last thing you want is compatibility issues arising from a new operating system. For example, professional tools such as AutoCAD or industry-specific applications may not yet have been optimized for Windows 11.
4. Hardware Limitations: Some machines simply do not meet the upgrade criteria set by Microsoft for Windows 11. The last thing any user wants is to be forced into a full hardware upgrade when their current setup works perfectly fine.
5. Less Complexity: Windows 10 carries with it a straightforward interface that many users have grown comfortable with. The introduction of features like Snap Layouts in Windows 11 may improve productivity, but for some, the complexity of navigating a revamped interface is a barrier they prefer to avoid.
6. Cost of Upgrade: For personal users, the shift to Windows 11 isn’t just a matter of software; it may also involve an investment in new hardware. For businesses, the costs multiply exponentially with the need for new devices on a fleet-wide basis.

The Road Ahead​

Adopting a new operating system is a personal decision and involves assessing many factors, from hardware specifications to user comfort. Microsoft's ongoing support for Windows 10 provides a cushion for users who may not be ready to dive into the deep end of Windows 11 just yet.
If you find yourself in the 60% and are pondering your next steps, consider a few guiding questions:

• Are there critical features in Windows 11 that could significantly enhance your productivity?
• Does your current hardware meet the requirements, or will you need an upgrade?
• Are you aware of upcoming updates or features that might compel you to transition sooner rather than later?

Ultimately, the choice to stick with Windows 10 or to step into the world of Windows 11 includes balancing risks, benefits, and personal preferences. For now, it seems that countless users are perfectly happy with their Windows 10 experience — a testament to the operating system’s continued relevance even in the face of change.
Windows 11 may be the future, but Windows 10 is still holding its ground for the present, and it might just be the right place for you to stay for a little longer. Why be in such a rush to change when your current setting does the job?
Source: How-To Geek Why Are You Still Using Windows 10?