Windows 11, the latest Windows iteration, represents a significant leap from its predecessor, Windows 10. While inheriting some elements, Windows 11 boasts a distinct identity with a revamped aesthetic, advanced features, and enhanced security. If you’re still using Windows 10, this article provides a comprehensive overview of Windows 11’s key features and helps you decide whether an upgrade is right for you.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 sitting on a table.
The Latest and Greatest: Windows 11 2024 Update (24H2)
The 2024 update (24H2), the most recent version of Windows 11, introduces a wealth of improvements. Released in October 2024, it enhances core functionalities and introduces new capabilities, especially for Copilot+ devices.
The Phone Link app, now conveniently located in the Start menu, displays essential information like phone battery life, connectivity, and recent calls/messages. AI-powered message replies and the option to use your phone’s camera as a webcam are notable additions.
Windows Search receives a significant upgrade, enabling searches using descriptive phrases instead of just filenames. The right-click context menu gains intuitive text labels for functions like Cut, Copy, and Rename. Archiving now supports TAR and 7z formats.
New power settings cater to the latest Intel and AMD CPUs, including an “Energy Saver” feature that reduces background app power consumption. This feature can be triggered at a specific battery level, maximizing battery life.
Copilot’s integration deepens in this update. It now resides in its own app window and enjoys enhanced functionality. Copilot+ devices gain “Click to do” context menus for quick actions like sharing or Bing searches based on selected images or documents. Generative text functions within documents are also readily accessible.
Copilot+ users unlock advanced AI capabilities in Paint. While all Windows 11 users benefit from AI image generation, Copilot+ users can leverage Cocreator to upscale, restyle, or complete artwork.
Web elements in Recall being called up and interacted with.
The controversial Recall feature, technically part of this update, remains in Insider testing. Windows Studio Effects adds AI-powered enhancements to video calls on platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet. These include eye contact filters, background blur, and improved lighting.
Live Captioning, available for Copilot+ users, provides captions and translations for spoken audio in up to 40 languages (language packs may be required). Automatic Super Resolution enhances image resolution within the Photos app, similar to FSR and DLSS in games.
Windows 11 24H2 also features improved support for Bluetooth LE audio, Wi-Fi 7, a unified Teams app, HDR background support, and Sudo for Windows.
Upgrading to Windows 11
The Windows Update screen in Windows 11.
Upgrading from Windows 11 is straightforward: search for “Windows Update” and select “Check for updates.” Install all important updates and restart your PC as prompted.
Upgrading from Windows 10 requires meeting specific system requirements:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores, 64-bit compatible, Intel 8th gen or newer/AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer.
- RAM: 4GB (consider adding more if necessary).
- Storage: 64GB or larger.
- System Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot.
- TPM: Version 2.0.
- Graphics Card: DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display: 720p, 9+ inches diagonally, 8-bit color.
- Internet: Windows 11 Home requires internet and a Microsoft account.
Various upgrade paths exist, including directly through Windows Update.
Windows 11 vs. Windows 10: Key Differences
Two windows laptops sit on a wooden table.
While sharing some DNA, Windows 11 and Windows 10 differ significantly in design and features.
Design and Features
Live Captions in Windows 11.
Windows 11 centers the Start menu and Taskbar, similar to macOS and ChromeOS, though it can be moved back to the left. The Taskbar remains at the bottom, though third-party apps can modify this. Rounded corners, new app icons, and Fluent Emojis further distinguish Windows 11.
New features include live captions, Focus mode, and a revamped File Explorer with tabs and upcoming design changes.
Start Menu and Taskbar
Taskbar settings in Windows 11.
Windows 11’s Start menu simplifies the experience, displaying a static app list and recent documents. Live Tiles are removed. The Taskbar replaces the search box and Cortana with Copilot, now movable. A dedicated Teams icon is present (removable). Weather information moves to the left, integrated with Widgets.
Gaming Enhancements
Windows 11 benefits gamers with features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage. While some features are also available on Windows 10, Microsoft’s focus on gaming positions Windows 11 as the superior platform. Enhanced refresh rate support and wider DirectStorage adoption further benefit gamers.
Snap Layouts and Multitasking
The Windows 11 snap groups and snap layouts feature.
Windows 11 introduces enhanced Snap Layouts, streamlining window management and multitasking. It also addresses multi-monitor issues by remembering window arrangements.
Copilot and AI Integration
The Surface Laptop shown in front of a Copilot+ sign.
Windows 11 integrates Copilot, an AI chatbot, directly into the OS. Copilot+ devices unlock additional features like Recall, which contextualizes AI interactions based on user activity. Windows 10 lacks these integrated AI capabilities.
Enhanced Tablet Mode
Surface Pro 8 tablet view with Windows 11 screen.
Windows 11’s tablet mode behaves like an iPad, offering touch-friendly gestures and enhanced pen functionality. Improved voice navigation provides comprehensive OS control.
Performance
Windows 11 optimizes memory management, prioritizing foreground applications. Faster wake-from-sleep times and enhanced scheduling contribute to improved performance, especially noticeable on less powerful hardware.
Collaboration and Remote Work
The AI features in Windows 11 for Teams
Windows 11 enhances remote work with features like background blur, eye contact adjustments, and automatic framing in Microsoft Teams. These AI-powered features are absent in Windows 10.
Android App Support
While initially a distinguishing feature, the Amazon App Store for Android apps on Windows 11 will close in March 2025. Pre-installed apps will continue to function.
Windows vs. Mac: A Brief Comparison
While both provide robust platforms, Windows 11 and macOS differ fundamentally in operation and user experience. Key distinctions include screenshot methods, window management, keyboard shortcuts, and available applications. Gaming remains a Windows stronghold, while macOS offers exclusive software like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro. AI integration also differs, with Windows featuring Copilot and macOS offering Apple Intelligence and ChatGPT integration.
