Microsoft Windows upgrades often receive negative reactions, and although Windows 11 has faced less criticism compared to previous versions, it is not without its flaws. The main issue revolves around its hardware requirements, while minor complaints involve interface changes that long-time users may find frustrating. Despite these drawbacks, Windows 11 functions similarly to Windows 10, supporting the same software and peripheral hardware. However, there are valid reasons to avoid upgrading to Windows 11.

One primary goal of major operating system releases, be it from Microsoft, Apple, or Google, is to encourage users to purchase new hardware rather than upgrade their existing devices. Tech giants prioritize revenue from new hardware rather than upgrading older models. As someone who primarily uses Windows 11 on a desktop PC, I can attest that transitioning between Windows 11 and Windows 10 is not a significant adjustment. Nevertheless, there are aspects of Windows 10 that I miss and that may make you prefer sticking with this tried-and-true operating system. Many of the reasons revolve around Windows 10’s strengths, which Windows 11 fails to replicate.

However, it is important to note that Microsoft will no longer offer support for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. It is highly recommended not to use an unsupported operating system as it will leave your device vulnerable to security risks. Until that time, if you still have a choice, here are some reasons to consider remaining on Windows 10 and postponing the upgrade. You are welcome to share your own reasons in the comments section below.

1. You Might Need to Purchase a New PC for Windows 11: One of the major concerns raised by Windows commentators following the launch of Windows 11 is the new hardware requirements. The need for a TPM security chip received significant attention, but in practice, the more common barrier to upgrading is the requirement for a more recent CPU. Several PCs I tested met the TPM chip requirement but had CPUs that were not recent enough for the upgrade. Microsoft’s decision is not arbitrary, as older chips’ device driver support often leads to more frequent kernel crashes. Additionally, Windows 11 can only be installed on 64-bit Intel/AMD and Arm chips, eliminating compatibility with 32-bit processors. If you are in the market for a new computer, there are still reasons to consider buying one that comes preinstalled with Windows 10, as discussed below. Furthermore, you can always downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.

2. The Taskbar in Windows 10 is Superior: Windows 10 offers wider, more informative taskbar buttons and the flexibility to place the taskbar on any side of the screen, including the top. Windows 11 lacks these features. In Windows 10, the taskbar entries are always in the same position, but in Windows 11, if you use the default center alignment, the icon positions, including the Start button, change as you open and close apps. However, in Windows 11, you can left-align the taskbar, resolving this issue. But other problems persist. For instance, the Taskbar calendar in Windows 11 does not allow you to add or view events as in Windows 10. On the other hand, the 22H2 update for Windows 11 addresses one of the common complaints by allowing users to drag and drop files onto taskbar app icons.

3. Ads Are Introduced in Windows 11: Microsoft is venturing into a new practice called “badges,” which some users view as ads, by incorporating them into basic operating system features like the Start menu, search box, notifications panel, and File Explorer. These badges promote Microsoft services that enhance the feature you are currently using. It is noteworthy that these ads have only been for Microsoft services like OneDrive and Microsoft 365, which some users may find helpful. However, Windows 10 users do not have to worry about these ads.

4. Windows 11 Offers a Subpar Tablet Experience: Using Windows 11 on a tablet can be frustrating. While Microsoft claims to have improved the tablet experience, my experience suggests the opposite. Windows 10 allows for easy access to the Task View and Action Center by swiping in from the left and right, respectively. Closing an app is as simple as dragging a finger down from the top of the screen, and apps naturally open in full-screen mode on tablets. Windows 11 introduces new gestures that require multiple fingers, resembling Apple’s approach. However, it is questionable whether these gestures will attract iPad users to switch to Surface Go devices. The 22H2 update for Windows 11 added some touch functionality, but it still falls short of the pleasant tablet experience offered by Windows 10.

5. Windows 11 Requires Signing In to a Microsoft Account: While most Mac, Chromebook, and Android users sign in to their respective accounts, some Windows users prefer not to sign in to an account on their PC. This requirement exists in the Home edition of Windows 11. However, the Pro edition currently allows users to bypass this requirement, although this loophole may be closed in future releases based on preview versions. With the Home edition, signing in to the account is only necessary during setup, after which you can use a local account for regular PC usage. Signing in to a Microsoft account brings various benefits, such as OneDrive backup, Store apps, Xbox games, Microsoft Family parental controls, and Phone Link for integrating Android phone functions with the PC.

6. The Action Center is Removed in Windows 11: Instead of the consolidated Action Center for notifications and quick settings present in Windows 10, Windows 11 separates these functions into a disjointed and somewhat illogical arrangement. While not as messy as the notification boxes in macOS, Windows 11 organizes these options differently. In Windows 10, you can adjust sound, change Wi-Fi settings, and view battery status by tapping the respective icons. However, in Windows 11, these conveniences are grouped together, so tapping the sound icon also brings up battery and Wi-Fi options, which may not be your immediate concern.

It is essential to carefully consider these reasons when deciding whether to upgrade to Windows 11 or stick with Windows 10. Each operating system has its advantages and disadvantages, and your specific needs and preferences should guide your decision-making process. Remember, Microsoft will eventually cease support for Windows 10, which may make the transition to Windows 11 inevitable in the long run.