The majority of third-party software is compatible with the free Windows 11 upgrade that Microsoft is providing for Windows 10 PCs. Up until October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will receive support, but it’s unknown how many upgrades there will be. If users wish to benefit from Windows 11’s new features, such as Microsoft Copilot, which went live on September 26, they can upgrade to it.
Here are some of the differences between Windows 11 and Windows 10 to help you determine if upgrading is the correct choice for you and learn about the newest Windows 11 features. Additionally, you can explore the latest Windows 11 features, all while keeping in mind the availability of a “Windows 11 retail key for sale“.
Design
Windows 11 and Windows 10 have a lot of design differences. With its pastel colors, rounded corners for every window, and a cleaner interface than its predecessor, Windows 11 delivers an interface that resembles a Mac more than anything else. Microsoft tried to keep the user interface (UI) as simple as possible to provide room for both work and pleasure.
The taskbar and Start menu have been moved to the center of the screen by Microsoft, although users can move them to the left. Windows 10 is the best option for quick access to Start menus because Windows 11 does not support live tiles, which show useful information without starting the app.
Snap Layouts
With the introduction of Snap Layouts in Windows 11, users will be able to neatly arrange programs and windows, much to how apps are grouped in Android and iOS. With the help of Snap Layouts, users can logically arrange programs and windows on the screen by choosing from a variety of layout options for distinct windows. By employing certain keyboard shortcuts or by moving their cursor to the left or right of the screen, users can manually organize their windows. When hovering above the taskbar, users may instantly access their Snap Layouts thanks to Snap Groups.
Microsoft Store
In Windows 11, Microsoft updated the Microsoft Store to make it simpler for users to find things like apps and movies. Users of Windows 11 and Windows 10 can download all Windows programs via the Microsoft Store.
The Microsoft Store is updated separately from Windows 11 because it is an app for the Universal Windows Platform.
Android apps
Through the Your Phone app, users can now utilize Android apps on Windows 10 that Microsoft has added to its Store. The Amazon App Store must be downloaded from the Microsoft Store for Android apps to function on Windows 11.
Teams, moving from Skype
With Teams integration into the Windows 11 taskbar, Microsoft has replaced the Windows 10 Meet Now function of Skype to streamline communication access and entice users to use Teams chat features. On July 31, 2021, Skype for Business Online will be discontinued; however, users can still use the Microsoft Store to obtain Skype for Windows and Mobile at no cost.
Touch or tablet mode
With touchscreen and 2-in-1 devices, Windows 11 switches to tablet mode by default, eliminating the taskbar’s ability to turn it on or off. Larger touch targets and visual clues are also included for simple window resizing and shifting.
Virtual desktops
Windows 10 allowed users to create several virtual desktops and included the Task View capability, but the options were restricted. Users of Windows 11 can set up virtual desktops similarly to how they could on a Mac. Users can switch between several computers at once for personal, professional, and educational purposes.
Gaming upgrades
DirectStorage, a feature in Windows 11 that employs contemporary storage hardware to speed up data processing, improves PC gaming. Additionally, Auto High Dynamic Range (HDR) is included to enhance color range in games, even in the absence of HDR settings. Additionally, Windows 11 comes with an Xbox Game Pass.
Performance improvements
Performance enhancements in Windows 11 include quicker online surfing, quicker wake-from-sleep mode, and speedier Windows Hello logins. For safe access, biometric-based technology is used. The 40% reduced size of Windows 11 updates, along with the quicker download and installation times, will help prolong the life of laptop batteries.
Copilot
The AI-powered assistant Windows Copilot is compatible with Microsoft 365, Windows 11, and the Edge web browser. Photos, Paint, and Clipchamp are just a few of the applications that Copilot will impact. On September 26, Microsoft Copilot went generally available. On November 1st, Microsoft 365 Chat and Copilot become generally accessible to business clients. You can use the Windows key + C keyboard shortcut or the taskbar to open Copilot.
