Why I Haven’t Upgraded to Windows 11 After Four Years

Since its launch in October 2021, Windows 11 has undergone significant scrutiny, including my initial assessment where I rated it a modest 6.5/10. While I acknowledged its visual appeal, I argued that it tended to compromise functionality. Since then, I’ve explored this operating system further through a series of Closer Look articles, pondering whether it could eventually serve as my primary operating system. Now, nearly four years later, I revisit this question to see if my stance on Windows 11 has evolved.

My Experience with Windows 11: A Split Decision

My daily computing relies on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 in nearly equal measure. I am equipped with two laptops: my personal device runs Windows 10, while my work machine is built around Windows 11. This split was largely necessitated by a hardware failure on the work laptop that led to an SSD replacement. When I was given the choice of operating systems, I opted to try Windows 11, motivated by curiosity rather than necessity. For the last six months, I’ve integrated it into my workflow, using a dual-boot setup on my personal laptop which has allowed me to experience both systems fully.

So, am I using Windows 11 as my primary OS? The answer is complicated. I enjoy the established familiarity of Windows 10 while appreciating the fresh experience of Windows 11, leading me to maintain both in my daily routine.

Why Windows 11 Still Isn’t My First Choice

To clarify, I don’t have major grievances with Windows 11; however, I find its absence of certain functionalities—deemed essential by some—does not impact my usage significantly. My engagement with Windows is rather conventional: I write articles, create presentations, develop dashboards, and participate in Teams meetings. Since I do not game, any differences in gaming performance do not affect my experience.

My reluctance to fully switch to Windows 11 stems primarily from a lack of compelling reasons. While it introduces a refreshed aesthetic, the additional features haven’t notably influenced my daily activities.

Recent Developments in Windows 11

Let’s review some of the recent enhancements Microsoft has rolled out with Windows 11:

Redesigned Start Menu: I can’t recall the last time I accessed it directly; I primarily utilize Windows Search instead.
AI Features: Many functionalities, like Recall, are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs.
Refined Context Menus: Windows 10’s menus serve me well enough.
Upgraded Microsoft Store: Does anyone genuinely use this feature?
Updated Settings App: Improvements are welcome, though I rarely access the Settings app daily.

While there are various other updates, my sentiment remains clear: I see merit in many of Windows 11’s enhancements, yet Windows 10 remains adequate for nearly all user requirements. Although the latest version offers advancements, they are not substantial enough to prompt users to abandon a well-functioning OS that they are already accustomed to. Thus, while Windows 11 is not a poor operating system, it doesn’t present a pressing need for an upgrade.

Future Considerations

What would convince me to switch to Windows 11 instantly? Features that would significantly improve my productivity. If the integration of Teams became seamless or if AI tools were offered that demonstrably enhance my output, it would be worth considering. However, none of these enhancements exist at present.

On a more pressing note, Windows 10 is reaching its end of life (EoL) shortly, leaving users like myself with critical decisions about security and functionality. We must weigh the choice between sticking with an unsupported OS, upgrading to Windows 11, potentially requiring new hardware, or possibly even migrating to Linux.

Moreover, there’s a possibility that Windows 10 could experience a fate akin to Windows 7, suggesting that despite Microsoft’s efforts, compelling reasons to transition to Windows 11 are still lacking. The current Windows market share reflects this struggle, as Windows 10 continues to dominate.

In an attempt to encourage upgrades, Microsoft is likely making last-minute pushes before Windows 10’s EoL deadline. Ultimately, tangible changes or innovative features that differentiate Windows 11 significantly may be required for a true migration surge. Until then, we might metaphorically find ourselves in the era of a new Windows 7.

Have you made the leap to Windows 11? If so, what motivated your decision? If not, what keeps you on the sidelines? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

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