When purchasing a new laptop, one of the most important considerations is the operating system (OS) it comes with. For many years, Windows has been the dominant OS for laptops, and Windows 10 has been the most popular version in recent times. However, with the release of Windows 11, the question on many people’s minds is: do new laptops come with Windows 10?
Understanding the Windows 10 and Windows 11 Landscape
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand the current landscape of Windows 10 and Windows 11. Windows 10 was released in 2015 and has been the most widely used OS for laptops and desktops. It has undergone several updates and improvements over the years, making it a stable and secure OS.
On the other hand, Windows 11 was released in 2021, and it’s the latest version of the Windows OS. Windows 11 offers several new features, improvements, and enhancements over Windows 10, including a redesigned interface, improved performance, and enhanced security.
Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: Key Differences
Before we dive into whether new laptops come with Windows 10, it’s crucial to understand the key differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11. Here are some of the main differences:
- Design and Interface: Windows 11 has a redesigned interface that’s more modern and sleek. It features a centered Start menu, a new Taskbar, and improved animations.
- Performance: Windows 11 is optimized for performance and offers faster boot times, improved multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance.
- Security: Windows 11 includes several security enhancements, including improved biometric authentication, enhanced data protection, and better malware detection.
- Compatibility: Windows 11 is compatible with most Windows 10 apps, but some older apps may not work.
Do New Laptops Come With Windows 10?
Now, let’s answer the question: do new laptops come with Windows 10? The answer is: it depends. While Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows OS, many laptop manufacturers still offer Windows 10 as an option.
There are several reasons why laptop manufacturers may still offer Windows 10:
- Cost: Windows 10 is generally cheaper than Windows 11, which can make it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Compatibility: Some older apps and hardware may not be compatible with Windows 11, so Windows 10 may be a better option for users who need to use these apps or hardware.
- Familiarity: Some users may be more familiar with Windows 10 and prefer to stick with what they know.
That being said, many new laptops do come with Windows 11, especially high-end models. Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows OS, and it offers several improvements and enhancements over Windows 10.
Laptop Manufacturers That Still Offer Windows 10
Some laptop manufacturers that still offer Windows 10 include:
- Dell: Dell offers Windows 10 on many of its Inspiron and XPS laptops.
- HP: HP offers Windows 10 on many of its Envy and Pavilion laptops.
- Lenovo: Lenovo offers Windows 10 on many of its ThinkPad and IdeaPad laptops.
- Acer: Acer offers Windows 10 on many of its Aspire and Predator laptops.
How to Check If a Laptop Comes With Windows 10
If you’re in the market for a new laptop and want to know if it comes with Windows 10, here are some steps you can follow:
- Check the manufacturer’s website: Visit the manufacturer’s website and check the specifications of the laptop you’re interested in. Look for the “Operating System” or “OS” section to see if it comes with Windows 10.
- Check online marketplaces: Check online marketplaces like Amazon or Best Buy to see if the laptop comes with Windows 10.
- Contact the manufacturer: If you’re still unsure, contact the manufacturer’s customer support to ask if the laptop comes with Windows 10.
Upgrading to Windows 11
If you purchase a laptop with Windows 10 and want to upgrade to Windows 11, you can do so for free. Microsoft offers a free upgrade to Windows 11 for eligible Windows 10 devices.
To upgrade to Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Check if your device is eligible: Visit Microsoft’s website to check if your device is eligible for the free upgrade.
- Backup your data: Backup your important files and data before upgrading.
- Download the upgrade: Download the Windows 11 upgrade from Microsoft’s website.
- Install the upgrade: Install the upgrade and follow the prompts to complete the installation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows OS, many new laptops still come with Windows 10. Laptop manufacturers may offer Windows 10 as an option due to cost, compatibility, and familiarity. However, many new laptops do come with Windows 11, especially high-end models.
If you’re in the market for a new laptop and want to know if it comes with Windows 10, be sure to check the manufacturer’s website, online marketplaces, or contact the manufacturer’s customer support. Additionally, if you purchase a laptop with Windows 10 and want to upgrade to Windows 11, you can do so for free.
Ultimately, the choice between Windows 10 and Windows 11 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to do your research and choose the OS that’s right for you.
Do new laptops come with Windows 10?
New laptops may come with Windows 10, but it’s not a guarantee. Many laptop manufacturers have started shipping their devices with Windows 11, which is the latest version of the operating system. However, some laptops, especially budget-friendly options or those designed for specific tasks, may still come with Windows 10.
It’s essential to check the specifications of the laptop you’re interested in purchasing to confirm which operating system it comes with. You can usually find this information on the manufacturer’s website or by contacting their customer support. Additionally, some laptops may offer the option to upgrade to Windows 11, so it’s worth exploring that possibility as well.
Can I still buy a laptop with Windows 10?
Yes, it’s still possible to buy a laptop with Windows 10. Although Windows 11 is the latest version, many manufacturers continue to offer Windows 10 as an option, especially for business or enterprise customers. You can search for laptops with Windows 10 on online marketplaces or visit the websites of laptop manufacturers to see what options are available.
When purchasing a laptop with Windows 10, make sure to check the system requirements and specifications to ensure it meets your needs. Additionally, consider the support lifecycle for Windows 10, which is expected to end in 2025. This means that after that date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for the operating system.
What are the benefits of buying a laptop with Windows 10?
One of the benefits of buying a laptop with Windows 10 is that it’s a familiar operating system that many people are comfortable using. Windows 10 has a wide range of software applications available, and it’s compatible with many hardware devices. Additionally, Windows 10 is a stable and secure operating system, with regular security updates and patches.
Another benefit of buying a laptop with Windows 10 is that it may be more affordable than a laptop with Windows 11. Since Windows 10 is an older operating system, laptops with this OS may be priced lower, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, it’s essential to weigh the cost savings against the potential drawbacks, such as limited support and compatibility with newer software applications.
Will I be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if I buy a laptop with Windows 10?
It’s possible to upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10, but it depends on the laptop’s hardware specifications. Microsoft has set specific system requirements for Windows 11, including a 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. If your laptop meets these requirements, you may be able to upgrade to Windows 11.
However, it’s essential to check with the manufacturer to confirm that the laptop is eligible for an upgrade. Additionally, you should also consider the potential costs and compatibility issues associated with upgrading. It’s recommended to back up your data and create a system image before attempting an upgrade to ensure a smooth transition.
How long will Microsoft support Windows 10?
Microsoft has announced that it will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, the company will no longer provide security updates, technical support, or software updates for the operating system. This means that laptops with Windows 10 will no longer receive critical security patches or bug fixes.
Although Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, it’s likely that many software applications will continue to be compatible with the operating system for some time. However, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and limitations of using an unsupported operating system, especially for business or enterprise customers who require high levels of security and compliance.
Can I install Windows 10 on a laptop that comes with Windows 11?
It’s technically possible to install Windows 10 on a laptop that comes with Windows 11, but it’s not a straightforward process. You’ll need to purchase a valid license for Windows 10 and ensure that the laptop meets the system requirements for the operating system.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and compatibility issues associated with downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10. You may need to reinstall drivers and software applications, and some features may not work as expected. Additionally, you may need to perform a clean install, which will erase all data on the laptop, so be sure to back up your files before attempting the installation.
What are the alternatives to buying a laptop with Windows 10?
If you’re not set on buying a laptop with Windows 10, there are several alternatives to consider. One option is to purchase a laptop with Windows 11, which is the latest version of the operating system. Another option is to consider a laptop with a different operating system, such as macOS or Chrome OS.
You could also consider purchasing a laptop with a Linux distribution, such as Ubuntu or Linux Mint. Linux laptops can offer a cost-effective alternative to Windows laptops, and many distributions are compatible with a wide range of software applications. Additionally, you could consider purchasing a laptop with a dual-boot option, which allows you to install multiple operating systems on the same device.