Windows 11 Review 2025: Features, Hardware Requirements, and Upgrade Guide

Windows 11 stands on the brink of a milestone anniversary, rapidly approaching its fourth year since launch and installed across hundreds of millions of PCs worldwide. As Microsoft’s latest flagship operating system prepares for yet another season of change—amid swirling rumors of Windows 12 and an evolving ecosystem—users and enterprises face urgent decisions. With Windows 10 support ending soon and a wave of stricter hardware requirements, is now the time to upgrade? This deep dive cuts through marketing gloss, incorporating the latest facts, critical perspectives, and firsthand user experiences to answer every key question about making the leap to Windows 11.

Understanding Windows 11: What’s Actually New?​

To understand the realities of Windows 11, it’s helpful to separate hype from substance. Launched in October 2021, Windows 11 marked a notable visual departure from Windows 10, introducing a more refined, fluent user interface. The most immediate and apparent change is a reimagined desktop environment: icons are newly colored and rounded, with system fonts updated for readability; the Start menu and taskbar are now center-aligned by default, culminating in a subtle but distinct break from decades-old habits. Yet beneath the surface, much of the core system architecture remains effectively identical to Windows 10.

The Essence of Windows 11’s Redesign​

• Start Menu and Taskbar: The Start menu ditches Live Tiles, relying instead on pinned apps and a list of recommended documents. The taskbar, while visually centered, is less customizable than before—you can no longer move it to the top or sides, nor can you resize the Start menu.
• Settings and File Explorer: The entire Settings app receives a streamlined, left-pane navigation, addressing one of Windows 10's biggest complaints—its confusing settings sprawl. File Explorer now supports tabs, and the home view prominently surfaces recent items and pinned folders.
• Widgets and Quick Settings: New Widgets bring glanceable, modular content (albeit mostly focused on Microsoft services), while the improved Quick Settings panel allows faster access to WiFi, audio, and brightness controls.

Subsequent updates have introduced features like a tabbed File Explorer, enhanced Snap window layouts, and—most buzzworthy—Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant designed to help with both productivity and support tasks.

The New Hardware Reality: Why Many PCs Are Left Behind​

The real story, and where Windows 11 drew the most early criticism, is its unprecedented hardware requirements. For decades, Windows championed backwards compatibility; Windows 11 breaks that tradition with what many call “unusually restrictive” criteria.

Official Minimum Specifications​

• Processor: 1GHz+, 2 or more cores, on a compatible 64-bit CPU or SoC
• RAM: At least 4GB
• Storage: At least 64GB
• Security: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, UEFI firmware (no legacy BIOS)
• Graphics: DirectX 12-compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver
• Display: HD (720p+), 9-inch+ diagonal, 8-bits per color channel

These requirements mean that only PCs built in 2019 or later are guaranteed compatible; in practice, many systems built as recently as 2020, especially budget models, fail to qualify due to unsupported CPUs or missing TPM modules. Most Intel 7th Gen and earlier CPUs, as well as AMD Zen 1 chips, are formally excluded. Microsoft’s own documentation and the widely circulated PC Health Check app verify these requirements and offer explicit explanations for any detected incompatibilities.

Security First—But at What Cost?​

Security is the watchword: mandatory TPM 2.0, UEFI with Secure Boot, and device encryption out of the box. These protections defend against firmware attacks and support advanced security features, but critics claim Microsoft’s decision effectively forces millions to buy new hardware ahead of schedule. For some, this hardware reset is a feature, signaling a clear break from the past. For others, it’s a “planned obsolescence” that undermines one of Windows’ greatest historic strengths.

Apps, Drivers, and Compatibility: What Breaks?​

Windows 11 is, at its core, built on Windows 10’s codebase, so virtually all traditional apps and device drivers remain compatible—especially on x86-based systems. However, there are a few caveats that deserve attention.

Snapshots of Compatibility​

• Traditional x86 Apps: Vast majority run without issue. Custom or deeply integrated apps relying on low-level drivers, such as disk utilities, anti-virus suites, or VPN software, may require updated drivers.
• Copilot+ PCs and Arm-based Machines: Microsoft’s push into Arm architecture brings high efficiency but introduces new hurdles. On Copilot+ PCs, most x86 apps run in emulation, but system-level drivers must be explicitly recompiled for Arm. Without official Arm drivers, certain hardware peripherals or utilities may not function.
• Legacy Devices: Some older printers, webcams, and specialty hardware with unmaintained drivers may stop working. Users are advised to check vendor support before upgrading.

If issues surface post-upgrade, Microsoft does allow a 10-day window to roll back to Windows 10. After that, returning to a previous OS requires a full reinstall.

The Question of Cost: Is Windows 11 Really Free?​

For most users, the price tag is straightforward: new consumer PCs come preloaded with a “free” copy of Windows, though technically the cost is incorporated into your hardware purchase.

Upgrading an Existing PC​

• Windows 10 to 11: If your current PC is running a legitimately activated copy of Windows 10 (Home or Pro), the upgrade to Windows 11 is free.
• Custom Builds & VMs: If you build your own PC or install Windows in a virtual machine, an official license is still required. Windows 11 product keys (and even Windows 10 keys, at time of writing) activate both systems due to Microsoft’s interchangeable licensing scheme.

Retail licenses remain available for around the same price as their Windows 10 counterparts. Variants include Home, Pro, and Pro for Workstations.

The Great Cutoff: Windows 10 Support Timeline​

Windows 10, the world’s most-used desktop OS for years, approaches end-of-life on October 14, 2025. Post-EOL, security and quality updates cease, except for customers purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESUs)—available at a “steep” price for businesses, and as a temporary, one-year free option for personal users in some cases.

Transition Implications​

• No new security patches means increased vulnerability to exploits.
• Organizations with critical legacy systems must evaluate costly ESU options or pursue alternative upgrade paths.
• Most app and hardware developers will stop targeting Windows 10, accelerating obsolescence.

PCs purchased with downgrade rights (i.e., shipped with Windows 11 Pro but preinstalled with Windows 10) are allowed, but “fresh” Windows 10 systems are no longer officially for sale. Reputable sources confirm that digital and retail product keys for Windows 11 and Windows 10 remain interchangeable, simplifying reuse or migration for DIY users.

Feature Updates, Servicing Schedule, and Insider Preview​

Another fundamental change: Windows 11 follows an annual feature update cadence, abandoning Windows 10’s twice-yearly schedule. These updates typically arrive in the second half of the year (“xxH2” style), with minor new features or improvements delivered between releases via the Microsoft Store or monthly “Moment” updates.

Support Timeline Breakdown​

• Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations/Education: 24 months of updates per feature release.
• Enterprise/Education: 36 months for feature releases.
• Monthly Security/Quality Updates: Delivered on “Patch Tuesday.”

Insider Preview users can opt into one of four channels—Canary, Dev, Beta, and Release Preview—to test upcoming features. However, switching away from “insider” builds typically requires a full reinstall.

The Microsoft Account Debate: Is It Required?​

With Windows 11, setting up for “personal use” now mandatorily requires both an internet connection and a Microsoft account during out-of-box setup—a major shift. Local accounts may still be created on Windows 11 Pro if configured for “business use,” or by applying certain widely documented workarounds during setup. While Microsoft claims account integration improves security and enables cloud features like device encryption/recovery, many privacy-conscious users see it as a forced tethering to Microsoft’s ecosystem. After setup, users can create local admin accounts and remove their Microsoft identities if desired.

Extended Compatibility: Workarounds for Older PCs​

Though the official upgrade path is blocked for unsupported systems, two main workarounds emerge:

• Registry Edit: Modifying specific registry keys before installation allows the setup program to bypass CPU checks (though TPM is still required).
• Rufus Utility: This open-source tool can create Windows 11 installation media that skips both TPM and CPU checks.

While many users have successfully used these methods, it’s important to heed Microsoft’s warnings: unsupported systems are officially ineligible for updates or warranty coverage, though, in practice, updates have continued to flow as of this writing. Microsoft reserves the right to block these systems in the future.

Performance Realities: Does Windows 11 Run Better?​

Performance assessments from both anecdotal reports and third-party benchmarks generally show that Windows 11 performs as well as, or slightly better than, Windows 10 on supported hardware. On technically “unsupported” hardware, results are mixed but often equally satisfactory, provided the baseline specifications (4GB RAM, SSD storage, modern CPU) are met.

Key User Interface (UI) Innovations​

Windows 11’s UI refresh garnered both praise and condemnation.

Highlights​

• Modernization: Vibrant icons, smoothly animated transitions, and consistent design language.
• Start Menu Evolution: Emphasis on pinned apps and recent documents allows for a cleaner, arguably more focused experience.
• Snap Layouts: Enhanced window management for power users and those with large external monitors.
• Tablet Mode Improvements: Devices like Surface Pro enjoy smoother transitions and an improved pen/touch interface.
• Voice Typing: Native dictation (Windows Key + H) offers increased accessibility.

Criticisms​

• Reduced Customization: Loss of taskbar repositioning, unresizable Start Menu, and the inability to ungroup taskbar icons hinders some power users.
• Persistent Legacy Elements: The Control Panel and some system dialogs still reflect a patchwork of old and new interfaces.
• Widgets: Critics argue that Widgets currently offer limited value and feel redundant or too focused on Microsoft’s own services.
• Ads and Recommendations: While Windows 11 lacks traditional third-party ads, users encounter frequent “recommendations” for Microsoft services (OneDrive, Xbox, Microsoft 365) and suggested app installs.

The Microsoft Store: A New Chapter​

One of Windows 11’s subtler but significant changes is a complete overhaul of the Microsoft Store. It now supports traditional Win32 apps (not just Universal Windows Platform apps), opening the door for a wider, more useful app catalogue. Developers can distribute “classic” desktop applications, while command-line aficionados can leverage the powerful Winget package manager for streamlined software deployment.

AI Comes to the Desktop: Windows Copilot​

Windows Copilot, Microsoft’s ambitious foray into embedding AI agents into the core Windows experience, is now a staple of every Windows 11 edition. As of the current release, Copilot is delivered as a standalone app, with integration points throughout the OS. Early reviews are mixed: the tool simplifies some support and research tasks but remains somewhat dependent on Microsoft’s own online ecosystem. Competition in AI assistance is fierce, and time will tell if Copilot becomes a must-have or an ignorable novelty.

Security, Privacy, and the TPM Mandate​

Security Features on by Default​

• TPM 2.0: Cryptographic processor to enable secure boot, drive encryption, Credential Guard, and cloud key backup.
• UEFI and Secure Boot: Block low-level malware and kernel exploits by confirming the integrity of the early boot process.

Privacy Implications​

While many of these features are undeniably positive from a pure security perspective, mandating cloud account sign-ins, telemetry data, and device registration with Microsoft raises valid privacy questions for some advanced users.

The End of Android Apps—At Least for Now​

At launch, Windows 11 included a Windows Subsystem for Android, enabling the running of Android apps natively via Amazon’s Appstore partnership. This highly promoted feature was discontinued in 2024. Microsoft and analysts cite low adoption and technical complexity; those who relied on Android apps must now look to third-party solutions.

Running Windows 11 on a Mac or in Virtual Machines​

Windows 11 runs in VMs, with the option to create “virtual” TPMs for full compatibility. On modern Intel Macs, third-party hypervisors support Windows 11. Users with Apple Silicon chips (M1/M2/M3/M4) must use authorized platforms like Parallels Desktop, and can expect some feature limitations. Licensing remains a hurdle, particularly for VM installations, but digital delivery and activation are straightforward for most.

Windows 11 Adoption: Where Does the Market Stand?​

Microsoft’s precise figures are closely guarded, but industry trackers estimate that Windows 11 runs on between 35% and 45% of all Windows PCs globally. Growth is slow and largely limited by hardware requirements; as older Windows 10 machines are replaced, adoption rises primarily through new device sales rather than direct upgrades.

Windows 12: The Road Ahead​

Speculation about Windows 12 increased in early 2024, but Microsoft ultimately doubled down on Windows 11 with its 24H2 and 25H2 updates. Reliable sources confirm no Windows 12 release in the immediate future; a possible launch window begins no sooner than 2026. If history is any guide, any major leap will come with little warning and likely introduce another set of strict requirements.

The Verdict: Should You Upgrade to Windows 11?​

The decision to move to Windows 11 should be informed by practical, forward-looking considerations.

Notable Strengths​

• Security: Hardware-rooted protection (TPM, Secure Boot) is a real advance against sophisticated attack vectors.
• Refined UX: A modern, visually cohesive environment with meaningful productivity enhancements for most users.
• Annual Updates: Simplifies planning for IT pros and reduces the churn of major migrations.
• Application Ecosystem: Improved Microsoft Store, support for Win32 apps, and cross-platform tools for developers (WSL, Winget).

Potential Risks and Weaknesses​

• Hardware Exclusion: Many still-capable PCs are left behind, potentially contributing to e-waste and added costs.
• Customization Shortfalls: Power users may resent lost features around taskbar, context menus, and advanced configuration.
• Evolving Account Requirements: Increasing reliance on Microsoft cloud identity may not suit privacy-minded individuals.
• Shifting Feature Set: Some capabilities (Android apps, advanced snapping, deep widget customization) face removal or uncertainty.
• Uncertain Support for Unsupported Installs: Future updates could lock out “bypassed” systems at any time.

Expert Recommendations​

• Users with Supported Hardware: Upgrading is recommended—if only to remain in the security/feature mainstream and benefit from continued development.
• Legacy/Unsupported Hardware: Carefully consider the risks, including potential future update lockouts. If security is vital, upgrade hardware.
• Business/Enterprise: Begin testing widely now, exploit the longer support cycles, and align migration before Windows 10’s end of life.
• Privacy Advocates: Be aware of tighter cloud integration and telemetry defaults, and seek appropriate configuration or alternative platforms if necessary.

Closing Thoughts​

Windows 11 is a decisive step forward for Microsoft—modern, secure, and aligned with how people use PCs in 2025. Yet for every well-polished feature, there are trade-offs: stricter requirements, a firmer grip on user journeys, and an undeniable push to cloud-centric computing. For most, the choice is clear: adapt, upgrade, and embrace the future—or risk being left behind as Windows 10 rides into the sunset. As with every major OS migration, planning and timely action are the keys to a smooth transition.

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Source: ZDNET Have Windows 11 upgrade questions? Here's everything you need to know - before you make the leap