Windows 11

FAQs

What is the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Windows 10 has been a ridiculously popular OS for Microsoft but now the time has come for the Seattle giant to up its game even further, with a new version of the Operating system that has all the best features of Windows 10, with a modern, contemporary look. Windows 11 will make your PC look brand new again. It’s an exciting time.

When can I buy a PC that comes with Windows 11 pre-installed?

With Windows 11 releasing later this year we can expect pre-builts to land at the same time. OEM versions of the software will be with manufacturers well in advance of the launch so they should be available on Day one of release.

How much does a PC with Windows 11 cost?

That’s going to depend on the specs of the PC you want. Either way, you want one that will last at least some of the test of time so you should look to get the best one you can afford at a price point that suits.

Where can I buy a PC with Windows 11?

All the usual outlets will be stocking them later this year and when the time comes we will be featuring all the best deals out there as usual.

Will my accessories work with Windows 11?

We don’t see any reason that popular Windows 10 accessories won’t work with Windows 11. Where some issues may arise is with older items that require drivers that simply might not get updated as they are no longer supported by their own manufacturers. You can always check with them to see if they plan to support Windows 11.

I want to buy a PC now, will I be able to install Windows 11 later?

As long as you buy a PC that meets the minimum hardware requirements you should have no issues. The vast majority of Windows 10 PC out in the wild at the moment should have no issues running Windows 11.

How do I know if my current Windows 10 PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11?

You can check out Microsoft’s minimum requirements on our Windows 11 System Requirments page. You can also run the PC Health Check application which we talk about on our How to Upgrade Windows 11 page.

What if my PC doesn’t meet the minimum hardware specifications. Can I stay on Windows 10?

There is no indication that Windows 10 will be going anywhere soon. There are billions of PCs with it installed currently so Microsoft won’t be shutting down support any time soon. If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements however you will want to think about upgrading sooner rather than later.

How will I know when the upgrade is ready for my Windows 10 PC?

We only have to wait until the end of this year before the upgrades will start to become available. Microsoft has indicated that it will be a staged roll-out where they will be validating PCs before allowing upgrades, similar to some of the feature roll-outs this year for Windows 10. This will enable them to reduce the possibility of errors across large swathes of the PC world.

How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?

Upgrades to Windows 11 will be free, but you will have to be running the most current version of Windows 10 and will also need to have a PC that meets the minimum hardware requirements.

What’s the difference between Windows 11 upgrade and update?

Windows updates tend to be bug and security fixes whereas an upgrade will be a complete change of Windows versions, eg Windows 10 to Windows 11, or even Windows Home to Windows Pro

How long will the free Windows 11 upgrade offer last?

This is a little sketchy at the moment. Microsoft is saying there is no end date at this stage for eligible systems, however, they are reserving the right to stop the offer at any time, but have said it will go on for at least one year from release/

Can I continue to use Windows 10?

If you love Windows 10 so much you certainly can. Windows 10 will be supported at least until the end of October 2025.

Does Windows 11 take up more space on my PC than Windows 10?

Microsoft says no, but then Windows 10 was already a fairly sizeable beast. Windows 11 should take up approximately the same amount of disk space, but you will need extra hard drive space during the upgrade process. After about 10 days Windows 11 will remove all its temporary files giving you your hard drive space back.

Is Windows 11 a Windows 10 replacement?

Well, sort of. Windows 10 will continue to live with us until October 2025 but eventually, Windows 11 will be the operating system that remains standing.

If I upgrade to Windows 11, what will happen to my files?

Ah the eternal question! What should happen is absolutely nothing. Would we advise backing up your essentials before you upgrade? Absolutely. Only laziness would prevent you from doing something os important surely?

Can I go back to Windows 10 after I upgrade if I don’t like Windows 11?

You can indeed. You have about 10 days to decide you hate it and revert. If you decide to switch back after 10 days you will need to perform a clean install of Windows 10.

How long does it take to install Windows 11?

This will depend on factors such as your internet speed and PC. Expect it to take longer than a regular Windows Feature update, but you will still be able to use your PC while most of the work is going on. When it comes to the install itself, you can always schedule it so it doesn’t get in the way of what you are doing.

Can I upgrade my Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 if I am running S mode?

Again, you will need your PC to meet the minimum hardware specs. I fit does you can upgrade to Windows 11 in S mode. If your Windows 10 PC is running the Pro edition in S mode, you need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro is not available in S mode.

Can a really old PC run Windows 11?

Microsoft says that most PCs under four years old will be able to run Windows 11, so it all depends on what your definition of really old is. Use the PC Health Check app to make certain before starting out.