Windows

Windows 10 or Windows 11: which to buy

Before buying a key, know two things: can your PC run Windows 11, and does Windows 10 still get security updates? This guide answers plainly.

Last updated: 20 October 2026 · 4 min read

The key fact: Windows 10 support

Regular support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, so Microsoft no longer issues free security updates for it in general. Any extended-support program has a limited term and conditions, so check its current status on Microsoft’s site.

The system keeps working, but security risk grows over time and some apps and games start requiring Windows 11.

The summary

  • PC can run Windows 11? Choose it. It is the version Microsoft keeps developing.
  • Older PC that does not meet the requirements? Windows 10 works until you replace it, with care when browsing and downloading.
  • New PC or a new build? Windows 11, no debate.

The requirements (modern CPU, TPM 2.0, UEFI with Secure Boot, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage) and how to check them are in Windows 11 requirements and TPM 2.0.

Home or Pro?

HomePro
Everyday use and gamingEnoughEnough
BitLocker disk encryptionNo (simplified device encryption)Yes
Remote Desktop as the hostNoYes
Join a company domainNoYes
Hyper-V virtual machinesNoYes

Home is enough for gaming and home use. You need Pro for BitLocker, remote access, virtual machines or a work domain. The key must match the edition; see OEM vs Retail.

Questions that come up before buying

  • Is Windows 11 slower than 10? On a qualifying PC, everyday and gaming performance is mostly similar; the clearer difference is features and support, not speed.
  • Will my old software run? Most programs that run on Windows 10 run on 11, but if you have a very old program or a rare device driver, test it before depending on it.
  • Can I go back to Windows 10 after upgrading? Rolling back is available for a short window after the upgrade, but do not rely on it; a backup is safer.
  • Which edition if I am not sure? Home is enough for home use and gaming; choose Pro if you need business features.

A practical rule: if your PC qualifies for Windows 11, buy a Windows 11 key from the start instead of buying 10 and moving later. A Windows 10 key remains a sensible choice only for PCs that cannot run 11.

Upgrading from 10 to 11: what happens to my files?

If your PC meets the requirements, upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 through Windows Update normally keeps your files and apps. Still, back up important files before any upgrade, because any change to the system carries a small chance of error. If you have an activated Windows 10 license, whether activation carries over depends on the license type and its terms, so check before you start.

Clean install or upgrade?

  • Upgrade: faster and keeps your files and apps, but it may carry old system problems with it.
  • Clean install: starts fresh and usually performs better, but you must copy your files and reinstall apps.

If your PC is slow or has accumulated problems, a clean install is better. If everything works and you want the least effort, upgrading is enough.

What actually changes in Windows 11

  • A redesigned Start menu and taskbar with centered icons.
  • Snap Layouts to arrange several apps on screen.
  • Gaming improvements such as Auto HDR and DirectStorage support on suitable hardware.
  • Ongoing feature updates, while Windows 10 no longer receives new features.

Our keys

We offer Windows 11 and Windows 10 in Home and Pro: online activation with Arabic steps, delivered to My library, and if it fails on first activation we replace it or refund you.

After buying: how to activate Windows 11 with a key. Everything is in Windows & Office.

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