Even After Support Ends
As Microsoft pushes forward with Windows 11, many users find themselves reflecting on the operating system that has been a steady companion for nearly a decade: Windows 10. With its end-of-support date drawing closer, the pressure is on to upgrade devices or risk being left behind.
Yet, despite Microsoft’s encouragement to move on, some users still prefer Windows 10. Not out of stubbornness, but because it continues to deliver on the essentials. Here are key reasons many people plan to keep using Windows 10 for as long as possible.
1. Hardware Compatibility That Just Works
One of the strongest points in Windows 10’s favor is its broad hardware compatibility. It runs smoothly on both modern machines and older systems, allowing users to extend the life of devices that are still perfectly functional.
Windows 11, on the other hand, enforces strict requirements such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and newer CPUs. Even with workarounds, the processor must support the POPCNT instruction—otherwise, starting with version 24H2, Windows 11 won’t boot at all. This limitation primarily impacts hardware made before 2007, leaving many PCs without a viable upgrade path.
For those with older but capable devices, Windows 10 remains the only practical choice.
2. A User Interface That Respects Choice
Windows 10 has long been appreciated for the flexibility of its interface. Its Start menu combined the familiarity of Windows 7 with the modern touch of Live Tiles, and even after those tiles became static, the menu remained versatile. Users could resize it, switch to full screen, and navigate efficiently with its left-aligned layout.
The Taskbar offered similar freedom—resizable, movable to any edge of the screen, and backed by complete context menus that put every option within a single click.
By comparison, Windows 11 looks similar but strips away much of that control. The centered Start menu is a jarring change for many, customization is more limited, and simplified right-click menus often slow down power users.
3. No AI Overload
Windows 10 includes only minimal AI features, largely confined to Microsoft Edge or the optional Copilot app, both of which can be removed. This makes the system feel less intrusive and more private, which appeals to users who prefer a straightforward computing experience.
Windows 11, however, is weaving AI deeply into the operating system. With features like Windows Recall, AI-powered assistants in Settings, and the new Copilot Runtime that allows apps to plug directly into system-level AI, the shift toward AI-first computing is clear.
While some users may welcome these features, others prefer the simplicity and control that Windows 10 still provides.
4. Familiar, Stable, and Battle-Tested
Windows 10 has been in use since 2015, giving Microsoft nearly a decade to refine it. Bugs have been patched, stability has improved, and businesses worldwide rely on its consistent performance. For many, it feels like the most dependable Windows release since XP.
Windows 11, while evolving, is still finding its footing. It has its share of bugs, interface changes, and shifting features. Even upcoming adjustments—such as merging pinned and “All apps” into one scrollable Start menu—may streamline things but won’t necessarily appeal to everyone.
For users who value stability and familiarity, Windows 10 still feels like the safer, more comfortable choice.
Final Thoughts
Yes, Windows 10’s support will end, and eventually, security updates will stop. But for now, many users are choosing to stay with the operating system that supports their hardware, respects their customization preferences, avoids heavy AI integration, and provides a stable, familiar environment.
Windows 11 may represent the future, but Windows 10 continues to meet the needs of countless users in the present—and that’s reason enough for many to hold on.