What is the difference between Windows 10 vs Windows 11?
Windows is one of the world’s most well-known and widely used operating systems. Developed by Microsoft, Windows has come a long way since its inception in the mid-1980s. With the recent release of Windows 11, users are curious about the differences between this latest version and its predecessor Windows 10.
Before knowing the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11, let us have a look at the history of the Windows operating system. Windows was first introduced in 1985 as a graphical user interface (GUI) for MS-DOS, an operating system that relied on command-line input. Over the years, Windows has evolved significantly, with each new version introducing various features and improvements.
Windows 10, released in 2015, was the last major release of the operating system until the release of Windows 11 in 2021. Windows 10 was designed to be a universal platform compatible with desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It introduced several new features, including a new Start menu, virtual desktops, and the Cortana virtual assistant.
Now, with the release of Windows 11, users are eager to know what has changed and what new features have been introduced. In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, covering everything from system requirements to user interface changes.
System Requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11
The system requirements of an operating system are critical to its performance and overall user experience. In this article, we will provide an overview of the importance of system requirements and how they affect the user experience of Windows 10 and Windows 11. We’ll also provide an overview of the minimum hardware requirements for these operating systems.
It is important to meet the system requirements of an operating system to ensure a smooth and efficient user experience. This ensures that the operating system continues to run smoothly without any performance or compatibility issues. This means that applications and software programs will launch and run faster, and the device’s overall performance will be smoother. Furthermore, meeting the system requirements can also improve the device’s security.
On the other hand, failing to meet the system requirements of an operating system can result in a slow and frustrating user experience. Applications may take longer to launch, and the device may freeze or crash frequently. In some cases, users may be unable to run certain applications or programs, which may limit the device’s functionality.
Now let’s have a look at the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Windows 10 requires 1 GHz or faster processor, 1 GB RAM for 32-bit or 2 GB RAM for 64-bit, 16 GB hard disk. Space for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit, and a DirectX 9 graphics card or later with WDDM 1.0 driver. On the other hand, Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor with at least 4 cores, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of hard disk space, and a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card or integrated GPU with WDDM 2.0 driver.
It is important to meet the system requirements of Windows 10 and Windows 11 to ensure a smooth and secure user experience. By ensuring that your device meets the minimum requirements, you can ensure that your device performs at its best and minimize the risk of security breaches or other potential issues.
Minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11
The minimum hardware requirements for an operating system are necessary to ensure that the system runs smoothly and without any performance issues. In this section, we’ll discuss the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11, covering processor, memory (RAM), storage, graphics, and performance requirements.
Processor Requirements:
The processor or CPU is the heart of any computing device, and it is important to have a powerful processor to ensure the device can handle multiple tasks without lag or delay. Windows 10 requires a 1 GHz or faster processor, while Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor with at least 4 cores.
Memory (RAM) Requirements:
RAM or random access memory, is the short-term memory of a computing device, and it is essential to have enough RAM to run multiple applications and programs simultaneously. Windows 10 requires 1 GB of RAM for 32-bit or 2 GB of RAM for 64-bit, while Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM.
Storage Requirements:
Storage is the long-term memory of a computing device, and it is essential to have enough storage to store all your files and documents. Windows 10 requires 16 GB of hard disk space for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit, while Windows 11 requires a minimum of 64 GB of hard disk space.
Graphics Requirements:
Graphics or video cards are essential for playing games or running software that requires high-end graphics. Windows 10 requires a DirectX 9 graphics card or later with a WDDM 1.0 driver, while Windows 11 requires a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card or integrated GPU with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
Performance Requirements:
The display or monitor is the primary output device of a computing device, and it is essential to have a display that can handle the resolution and display quality required by the operating system. Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 require a minimum display resolution of 800 x 600 pixels.
Meeting the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11 is important to ensure that the operating system continues to run smoothly without performance or compatibility issues. By meeting the minimum requirements for processor, RAM, storage, graphics, and display, you can be sure that your device performs at its best and provides an optimal user experience.
Comparison of System Requirements between Windows 10 and Windows 11
Windows 11, the latest version of the Windows operating system, comes with new features and improved performance. However, to enjoy these benefits, users must ensure that their system meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11. This section will compare the minimum system requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Processor Requirements Comparison:
The processor is one of the essential components of the computer system. Windows 10 requires a 1 GHz or faster processor with two or more cores, while Windows 11 requires a 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor with two or more cores. This means that Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor, which is a significant change from Windows 10.
Memory (RAM) Requirements Comparison:
RAM is another essential component of a computer system, and it affects the overall performance of the system. Windows 10 requires a minimum of 1 GB of RAM for 32-bit systems and 2 GB of RAM for 64-bit systems. At the same time, Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM. This means that users with less RAM in their system may need to upgrade their memory to use Windows 11.
Storage Requirements Comparison:
Storage requirements are the same for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Both operating systems require a minimum of 64 GB of storage space. However, it is important to note that storage requirements may increase with the installation of updates and applications.
Graphics Requirements Comparison:
The graphics requirements for Windows 11 are higher than those of Windows 10. Windows 10 requires a DirectX 9 or later graphics card, while Windows 11 requires a DirectX 12 or later graphics card with a WDDM 2.0 driver. This means users with older graphics cards may need to upgrade to use Windows 11.
Performance Requirements Comparison:
Windows 11 also have higher performance requirements than Windows 10. Windows 10 requires a minimum display resolution of 800 x 600 pixels, while Windows 11 requires a minimum display resolution of 720p (1280 x 720 pixels). Windows 11 requires a display that supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) and a compatible graphics card.
Impact of Not Meeting System Requirements
System requirements are the minimum hardware and software specifications that a computer must have in order to effectively run a particular operating system such as Windows 10 or Windows 11. If your computer does not meet the system requirements of Windows 10 or 11, you may experience several problems, including performance issues, compatibility issues and security risks.
Performance issues:
If your computer does not meet the system requirements of Windows 10 or 11, you may experience slow performance, freezing, crashing, and other related problems. Operating systems require certain hardware resources, such as CPU speed, RAM, and hard disk space, to function optimally. If your computer falls below these minimum requirements, the operating system will struggle to perform tasks and run applications smoothly. This can significantly affect your productivity and user experience.
Compatibility issues:
Another problem you may encounter if your computer does not meet the system requirements of Windows 10 or 11 is compatibility issues. Some hardware components and software applications may not be compatible with the operating system, causing errors, crashes, and other problems. For example, if your computer doesn’t meet the graphics card requirement for Windows 11, you might not be able to run some high-end applications or games that require a dedicated graphics card. Compatibility issues can also cause problems with peripherals such as printers, scanners, and cameras, making them difficult to use with the operating system.
Security Risk:
If your computer does not meet the system requirements of Windows 10 or 11, you may be at greater risk of security threats. Newer operating systems are designed to provide better security features to protect your computer from malware, viruses, and other security threats. If your computer can’t run the latest version of Windows, you may miss out on important security patches and updates. This can make your computer vulnerable to cyber-attacks and data breaches.
Lastly, it is important to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements of Windows 10 or 11 to avoid performance, compatibility, and security risks. If your computer falls short of these requirements, consider upgrading your hardware components or purchasing a new computer that meets the system requirements.
User Interface
User interface (UI) refers to the graphical interface and interaction between a user and a computer or software application. It includes all elements with which the user interacts, such as menus, icons, buttons, windows, and other visual components.
Windows 10 User Interface:
Windows 10 features a modern, flat and minimal user interface designed to work across various devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones. The Start Menu is a central hub for accessing applications, settings, and other features. The customizable taskbar allows users to pin frequently used apps and access system notifications. Action Center is a centralized place to manage notifications and quick settings. The UI also includes virtual desktops, the Windows Explorer file manager, and touch and stylus input support.
Windows 11 User Interface:
Windows 11 features a new user interface that is more modern and streamlined. The Start menu is now centred and features a cleaner, more customizable design. The taskbar has been moved to the centre and now includes icons for accessing new features such as Snap Layout, Snap Groups, and Desktop. The Action Center has been redesigned to make it more intuitive and accessible. The UI also includes a new File Explorer design, a redesigned Microsoft Store, and touch and stylus input support.
Comparison of the two user interfaces:
Windows 11 has a more refined and polished user interface than Windows 10. The Start menu and taskbar have been redesigned to be more user-friendly, and the Action Center has been updated to make it more intuitive. Windows 11 also features rounded corners and new animations that give the UI a modern look and feel. Changes to the user interface aim to make the operating system easier to use and more aesthetically pleasing.
Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 have modern and intuitive user interfaces. However, Windows 11 features a more streamlined and polished design, which aims to make the operating system more user-friendly and visually appealing.
Start Menu
The Start Menu is a central hub in Windows that allows users to access their applications, settings, and other features. Significant changes have been made in Windows 10 and Windows 11 in this.
Windows 10 Start Menu:
The Windows 10 Start Menu sports a modern, flat, minimal design that is customizable and designed to work on various devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones. It’s divided into two sections: a column on the left containing pinned and recently used apps and a column on the right containing live tiles for apps and information such as news, weather, and calendar events. The Start menu can be resized and customized to display the apps, and features users use most often.
Windows 11 Start Menu:
The Windows 11 Start Menu is a significant departure from previous versions of Windows. It has a focused design with a cleaner and more customizable layout. The Start menu contains a grid of app icons that the user can pin or rearrange. The Start menu also includes a Recommended Apps section, which suggests apps based on a user’s usage history. There is no Live Tiles section in the Windows 11 Start Menu, but an option to add widgets has been introduced.
Comparison of the two Start Menus:
The Windows 11 Start Menu is more streamlined and user-friendly than the Windows 10 Start Menu. Windows 11’s Start menu is easier to navigate with a cleaner and more customizable design. The focused layout of Windows 11’s Start menu provides easy access to frequently used applications and features. The Windows 11 Start Menu does not include a Live Tiles section, which some users may miss. However, adding widgets to Windows 11’s Start Menu gives users more flexibility in adding and accessing information.
The Windows 10 and Windows 11 Start menus serve as central hubs for accessing apps, settings, and other features. The Windows 11 Start Menu sports a more streamlined and user-friendly design that is focused and features a cleaner layout with more customization options. Windows 11’s Start Menu significantly improves over Windows 10’s Start Menu, providing a more intuitive and aesthetically pleasing experience.
Taskbar
The taskbar is an essential Windows operating system component that allows users to launch and switch between open applications, access system settings and notifications, and manage other tasks. Significant changes have been made in Windows 10 and Windows 11 in this.
Windows 10 Taskbar:
The Windows 10 taskbar is a modern and customizable design that aims to work across various devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It includes a search bar, Start Menu button, Task View button, and icons for pinned and open applications. The taskbar also includes system notifications and shortcuts to frequently used settings such as Wi-Fi, volume, and battery settings. Users can customize the taskbar by pinning frequently used apps, resizing the taskbar, and changing its position on the screen.
Windows 11 Taskbar:
The Windows 11 taskbar has been redesigned to be more streamlined and focused on the screen. The taskbar includes icons for pinned and open applications, the Start Menu button, and the Task View button. Shortcuts to system notifications and frequently used settings have been moved to the new Action Center. The Windows 11 taskbar also includes new features such as Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops, which allow users to manage their open windows more efficiently. Users can customize the taskbar by adding or removing app icons, changing its position on the screen, and hiding it when not in use.
Comparison of the two taskbars:
The Windows 11 taskbar is a significant departure from the Windows 10 taskbar. The Windows 11 taskbar is centred and features a clean design with a greater focus on managing open windows. System notifications and shortcuts to frequently used settings have been moved to the Action Center to make the taskbar less cluttered. The Windows 11 taskbar includes new features such as Snap Layout and Snap Groups, which give users more flexibility in managing their open windows. However, the Windows 10 taskbar is more customizable, with more options for pinning apps, resizing the taskbar, and changing its position on the screen.
The Windows 10 and Windows 11 taskbars are essential components of the operating system, providing quick access to frequently used apps and settings. The Windows 11 taskbar is a more streamlined and user-friendly design focusing on the screen and has new features such as Snap Layout and Snap Groups. However, the Windows 10 taskbar is more customizable, with more options for changing its size and position on the screen.
Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops are a feature of operating systems that allow users to create multiple virtual screens or desktops on a single physical display. This allows users to organize their work in different spaces and easily switch between them. In this answer, we will explain virtual desktops in Windows 10 and Windows 11 and compare the two virtual desktop features.
Virtual Desktops in Windows 10
Virtual desktops were introduced in Windows 10, and they can be accessed by clicking the Task View button on the taskbar or by using the keyboard shortcut Win+Tab. This opens the Task View interface, which displays all currently open windows and allows users to create and switch between virtual desktops.
Click the “+ New Desktop” button in the Task View interface to create a new virtual desktop in Windows 10. Users can also move between virtual desktops by dragging windows to the desired desktop. In addition, Windows 10 allows users to switch between virtual desktops by pressing the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl+Win+Left Arrow or Ctrl+Win+Right Arrow.
Virtual Desktops in Windows 11:
Virtual desktops in Windows 11 have seen some changes and improvements compared to Windows 10. In Windows 11, virtual desktops can be accessed by clicking the Task View button on the taskbar or by using the keyboard shortcut Win+Tab. This opens the Task View interface, which displays all currently open windows and allows users to create and switch between virtual desktops.
Click the “+ New Desktop” button in the Task View interface to create a new virtual desktop in Windows 11. Users can also move between virtual desktops by dragging windows to the desired desktop. Windows 11 also allows users to switch between virtual desktops using Win+Ctrl+Left Arrow or Win+Ctrl+Right Arrow keyboard shortcuts.
Comparison of the two virtual desktop features:
While virtual desktops are similar in Windows 11 and Windows 10, Windows 11 introduces some improvements. One significant improvement is the ability to snap windows to the edges of the screen when moving them between virtual desktops. This feature can be enabled by going to Settings > System > Multitasking and toggling on the “When I snap a window, what can I snap next to it” option.
Another improvement in Windows 11 is creating and naming custom virtual desktops. Users can create a new virtual desktop and give it a custom name by clicking the “+ New Desktop” button and then clicking “New Desktop” again. This opens a menu where users can enter a custom name for the desktop.
Windows 11 also offers a new feature called “Snap Layouts,” allowing users to snap windows to pre-defined layouts quickly. This feature can be accessed by hovering over the maximize button on any window and selecting a layout from the available options.
Overall, virtual desktops in Windows 11 offer several improvements and new features compared to Windows 10. However, both versions of virtual desktops provide a great way to organize work and improve productivity by allowing users to create multiple virtual screens on a single physical display.
File Explorer
File Explorer is a tool in the Windows operating system that allows users to navigate and manage files and folders on their computers. In this answer, we will cover the details of File Explorer in Windows 10 and Windows 11 and compare the two File Explorer features.
Windows 10 File Explorer:
File Explorer in Windows 10 is a powerful and intuitive tool that provides easy access to files and folders on the computer. File Explorer’s main interface is divided into two panes: the navigation pane on the left, which contains shortcuts to frequently used locations such as the Desktop, Downloads, Documents, and Pictures folders, and the main pane on the right, which displays the selected folder or folder.
File Explorer in Windows 10 provides various options to manage files and folders, such as copying, moving, deleting, renaming, and creating new files and folders. It also allows users to change the view of files and folders, sort them by various criteria, and search for specific files using keywords.
Windows 11 File Explorer:
File Explorer in Windows 11 has undergone some design changes compared to Windows 10. The navigation pane on the left now has a new “Quick Access” section that contains shortcuts to frequently accessed files and folders. This section can be customized to add or remove items and shows recently opened files.
The main pane on the right has been updated in Windows 11 with a new design that includes rounded corners and a new “command bar” at the top of the window. This command bar includes options for managing files and folders, such as cut, copy, paste, delete, and rename, and includes options for changing the view of files and folders, sorting them by various criteria, and searching for specific files using Also includes options. Keyword.
Windows 11 also introduces a new feature called “Snap Layouts, ” allowing users to quickly snap windows to pre-defined layouts. This feature can be accessed by hovering over the maximize button on any window and selecting a layout from the available options.
While File Explorer in Windows 11 includes some design changes and new features compared to Windows 10, the tool’s core functionality remains unchanged. Both versions of File Explorer provide easy access to files and folders, allowing users to manage files and folders, change the view of files and folders, sort them by various criteria, and search for specific files using keywords. Let’s give
One notable improvement in Windows 11 is the Quick Access section in the Navigation Pane, which provides quick access to frequently used files and folders. Additionally, the new command bar at the top of the window in Windows 11 provides easy access to file management options.
Overall, File Explorer in Windows 11 offers an updated and more modern interface with some new features, but the tool’s basic functionality remains the same as in Windows 10.
Performance
Performance refers to the ability of a computer system or software application to function efficiently and effectively. Regarding operating systems such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, performance can be evaluated based on various factors such as boot-up speed, shutdown speed, and general system performance.
Boot-up Speed Comparison:
Boot-up speed refers to the time it takes for a computer to turn on and be ready for use. Windows 11 has been optimized for faster boot times than Windows 10. One of the main reasons for this improvement is the use of Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) firmware instead of the traditional BIOS firmware used in Windows 10. UEFI firmware has been designed. To work more efficiently with modern hardware, resulting in faster boot times. Windows 11 also features a more streamlined boot-up process that uses fewer system resources, contributing to faster startup times.
Shutdown Speed Comparison:
Shutdown speed refers to the time it takes for the computer to shut down after the user initiates the process. Windows 11 even beats Windows 10 in terms of shutdown speed. Windows 11 has improved power management capabilities, allowing it to shut down faster and consume less energy during the shutdown process. This improvement is due to the use of a hybrid shutdown mechanism that combines the features of a traditional shutdown with a hibernation process, allowing Windows 11 to save system state information to disk and quickly restore it during the next boot-up.
General system performance comparison:
General system performance refers to a computer system’s overall speed and responsiveness when performing everyday tasks such as browsing the web, opening applications, and multitasking. Windows 11 is expected to perform better than Windows 10 due to several optimizations in the operating system. Windows 11 has improved memory management capabilities, allowing it to make better use of available RAM and allocate system resources more efficiently. Newer operating systems also have improved task scheduling capabilities that prioritize high-priority tasks and allocate system resources accordingly. Combined with streamlined and faster boot-up and shutdown processes, these optimisations contribute to a noticeable improvement in general system performance.
However, it’s worth noting that the actual performance gain from upgrading to Windows 11 may vary depending on the computer’s hardware configuration. Older computers with limited hardware resources may not see significant performance gains, while newer and more powerful systems may see noticeable improvements. Before upgrading to Windows 11, it is recommended to check the system requirements and compare them with the computer’s specifications to ensure optimum performance.
Security Features
Security features refer to various tools and mechanisms used to protect computer systems and their data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. In the context of operating systems such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, security features are important to ensure the security and privacy of users’ information.
Overview of Windows 10 security features:
- Windows 10 has several security features to protect users from cyber threats. Some notable security features in Windows 10 include:
- Windows Defender Antivirus: This built-in antivirus program provides real-time protection against malware and other threats.
- Windows Firewall: This is a built-in firewall that controls network traffic and prevents unauthorized access to the computer.
- BitLocker Drive Encryption: This feature allows users to encrypt their hard drives, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to access data.
- Windows Hello: This biometric authentication system uses face recognition or fingerprint scanning to log in to a computer.
- Windows Information Security: This feature allows users to protect their data from unauthorized access by separating personal and work data.
Overview of Windows 11 security features:
- Windows 11 includes several security features that build on the security features of Windows 10. Some notable security features in Windows 11 include:
- Windows Hello Improvements: Windows 11 improves Windows Hello by adding support for enhanced facial recognition technology and fingerprint authentication.
- Windows Defender Application Guard: This feature allows users to open untrusted websites and files in a secure environment while keeping the main system safe from malware.
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoints: It is an enterprise-grade security solution that provides advanced threat detection and response capabilities.
- Hardware-based isolation: Windows 11 uses hardware-based isolation to protect sensitive data and processes from malware attacks.
Comparison of the two security features:
Windows 11 builds on the security features of Windows 10 and adds several new features to enhance security. For example, Windows 11 includes advanced biometric authentication, improved browser protection with Windows Defender Application Guard, and advanced threat detection with Microsoft Defender for Endpoints. Windows 11 also uses hardware-based isolation to protect sensitive data and processes from malware attacks. Additionally, Windows 11 is designed to provide better overall security by including more secure defaults, such as disabling unsigned drivers and enforcing Secure Boot on compatible devices.
While Windows 10 has many strong security features, Windows 11 takes security to the next level with improved biometric authentication, advanced threat detection, and browser protection.
Finally, the article “What is the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?” highlights some of the key differences between the two popular operating systems.
To recap, Windows 11 offers a more modern and streamlined user interface, better touch support, better performance, and advanced security features. On the other hand, Windows 10 is a time-tested operating system that is still widely used and supported by Microsoft.
It is important to note that Windows 10 and Windows 11 have strengths and weaknesses. Users who prioritize stability and compatibility with older applications may prefer to stick with Windows 10, while those who value a more modern user interface and better touch support may find Windows 11 more appealing.
The choice between Windows 10 and Windows 11 depends on individual needs and preferences. For most users, upgrading to Windows 11 may result in some noticeable improvements in performance and usability, but Windows 10 remains a reliable and functional operating system that Microsoft will support for years to come.
Ultimately, Windows 10 and Windows 11 have advantages and drawbacks, and the decision to upgrade should be based on individual needs and preferences. Whatever the choice, Microsoft continues to provide users with reliable and robust operating systems to meet their computing needs.
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