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Since the launch of Windows 10 in 2015, several updates and variants have improved the operating system’s usability and functionality. Recently, a more significant leap was introduced: Windows 11. Yet, what sets Windows 11 apart from Windows 10? Let’s dive into their differences.
An All-New Look
One of the most noticeable differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 lies in the visual design.
1. Start Menu & Taskbar
In Windows 11, the Start Menu and Taskbar get a complete makeover. The Start Menu is now centered, compared to the left-aligned design in Windows 10. Live Tiles are replaced with static icons, with a heavy emphasis on Microsoft’s cloud services.
2. Snap Layouts & Snap Groups
Windows 11 introduces “Snap Layouts” and “Snap Groups,” enhancing multitasking capabilities. While Windows 10 has a Snap Assist feature allowing users to pin applications side by side, the Snap Layouts in Windows 11 offers much more flexibility, allowing windows to be arranged in a variety of formats.
3. Rounded Corners
Windows 11 adopts softer, rounded corners for open windows, taking a departure from Windows 10’s sharper, boxier look.
Enhanced Productivity & Performance
Windows 11 introduces several enhancements to the user experience aiming to improve productivity and operating speed.
1. Direct Integration of Microsoft Teams
Windows 11 introduces direct integration of Microsoft Teams into the taskbar, allowing users to chat, call, or video conference directly from their desktops – a feature nonexistent in Windows 10.
2. Virtual Desktops
While Windows 10 did introduce the concept of virtual desktops, Windows 11 takes it a step further by allowing users to customize each virtual desktop to different tasks or modes (work, personal, gaming, etc.), each with different wallpapers and settings.
3. Gaming Improvements
Windows 11 offers a superior gaming experience to Windows 10, with features like Auto-HDR for a broader range of colors and DirectStorage for faster load times. Xbox Game Pass is also integrated more naturally into the new system.
4. Performance Efficiency
Windows 11 places a high emphasis on performance efficiency. It promises faster updates (that happen in the background), faster wake-up times, and better overall performance.
Substantial System Requirements
Windows 11 calls for more substantial system requirements compared to Windows 10. The minimum requirements include a 1 GHz processor with two or more cores, 4 GB RAM for 64-bit systems (or 2 GB RAM for 32-bit systems), and 64 GB or bigger storage. Windows 11 also mandates the presence of a compatible 64-bit processor, TPM version 2.0, compatible graphics card, and a system firmware that can support Secure Boot.
In contrast, the requirements for Windows 10 are considerably less demanding.
App Integration and Android Compatibility
Windows 11 reveals a greatly improved Microsoft Store, with a wider range of apps and an entirely new layout. Besides, it introduces Android App Integration. Windows 11 users can use Android apps on their system via the Amazon Appstore—a feature Windows 10 lacks.
Final Thoughts
Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 incorporate excellent functionality and user-friendliness into their designs. Windows 11, with its simplified, centered design, embedded Microsoft Teams, customized virtual desktops, enhanced game features, and Android app compatibility, takes a leap forward.
However, it’s essential to consider Windows 11’s more stringent system requirements before upgrading. As Microsoft continues to support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025, users can safely wait until their current hardware reaches end-of-life or a compelling business reason compels an earlier switch to Windows 11.