Windows 10 remains the king of operating systems, boasting double the users of its successor, Windows 11. This dominance can be attributed to a mix of factors, including user familiarity with Windows 10, stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11, and a cautious wait-and-see approach from many users. Let’s delve deeper into why Windows 10 holds on so tightly to its crown.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of why Windows 10 still has double the number of users compared to Windows 11:
Factors Contributing to Windows 10’s Dominance:
-
Newer Operating System: Windows 11 is a young operating system, launched in October 2021. Many users are comfortable and familiar with Windows 10, which has been around since 2015. They might not feel the immediate need to upgrade to a new and potentially unfamiliar interface.
-
Upgrade Requirements: Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10. It requires features like TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and a relatively new processor, which might not be present on older computers. This can prevent a significant portion of users from upgrading due to hardware incompatibility.
-
Unclear Upgrade Benefits: While Windows 11 boasts a fresh interface and some new features, the improvements might not be substantial enough for some users to justify the hassle of upgrading. Windows 10 is still receiving security updates and remains perfectly functional for many users’ needs.
-
Cautious User Approach: Upgrading to a new operating system can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with existing software or require users to learn new functionalities. Some users prefer to wait until Windows 11 has been around longer, has a proven track record, and has ironed out any potential bugs before making the switch.
-
Enterprise Rollouts: Enterprise environments, especially large organizations, often have longer deployment cycles for new operating systems. They might have specific software compatibility requirements or security protocols that need to be thoroughly tested before deploying Windows 11 to their entire workforce. This can contribute to the slower adoption rate in the business sector.
Windows 11 Adoption Trends: windows 10 still has double the number of users of Windows 11
-
While Windows 10 maintains a significant lead, Windows 11 adoption is gradually increasing. Microsoft has been working on improving compatibility and adding features to entice users to upgrade.
-
There’s a possibility that as hardware gets refreshed and more computers meet the system requirements, the user base for Windows 11 will grow organically.
-
Microsoft ending extended support for Windows 10 Home and Pro on October 14, 2025, might also nudge some users towards upgrading to Windows 11 to maintain security updates.
Overall, the continued dominance of Windows 10 is a combination of user comfort with the familiar system, stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11, and a wait-and-see approach to assess the benefits of the newer operating system.
Faqs
Q: How many people use Windows 11 over Windows 10?
A: As of today, Windows 10 holds a significantly larger user base compared to Windows 11. Statistics show Windows 10 has around a 67% market share, while Windows 11 sits around 28%. This gap is slowly closing, but Windows 10 remains the dominant force for now.
Q: Why do I have 2 user accounts on Windows 10?
A: There are a couple of reasons you might have 2 user accounts on Windows 10:
- Multiple Users:Â Your computer might be set up for multiple people to use, each with their own account and settings.
- Guest Account:Â You might have a default guest account enabled, which provides limited access to the computer.
You can check your user accounts and manage them in your system settings.
Q: Will Windows 10 Users get a Windows 11 upgrade?
A: Yes, some Windows 10 users are eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11. However, there are compatibility requirements. Microsoft offers a tool to check if your device meets the upgrade requirements.
Q: Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to 10?
A: Yes, Microsoft allows you to downgrade from Windows 11 back to Windows 10 within a limited window (usually 10 days) after the upgrade. This option might not be available after that timeframe, and a full system backup might be necessary for downgrading later.