Windows 11 Criticized as “Pure Horror” by Users, Microsoft Responds to Feedback

Windows 11 continues to evoke strong opinions, particularly from users who feel dissatisfied with its transition from previous versions. As the mandatory upgrade date of October 14, 2025, approaches, feedback has been intensifying. One user, who switched from Windows to Fedora, described their experience with Windows 11 as “pure horror”in a recent post on X. This sentiment has not fallen on deaf ears, with Microsoft’s Insider Program head affirming that the company is taking user feedback seriously.

In their words, “I have grown increasingly frustrated with Windows since version 8 (with 10 being a slight improvement, and 11 feeling like a complete step backward), leading me to switch to Fedora more than a year ago. There’s no turning back now, ” highlighted a user who left Windows for the Linux distro.

This user cited a mix of privacy concerns, system bloat, performance issues, bugs, and poor UI/UX as their primary reasons for the switch. While there have been some improvements from Windows 10 to 11, such as certain aspects of the Control Panel, the overall sentiment indicated a significant amount of work remains.

Brandon LeBlanc, Senior Program Manager for the Windows Insider Program, expressed his regret in response to the user’s feedback, stating, “I’m sorry to hear we lost you to Fedora, ” and shared a hope that Microsoft might eventually win back their loyalty. He even acknowledged Fedora as his “favorite Linux distro.”

Despite the criticisms, Windows 11 has made strides in response to user feedback, showcasing that Microsoft is open to suggestions and is actively working on enhancements.

How Microsoft is Responding to User Feedback

Gradually, we have witnessed various features in Windows 11 improve. Notably, many functionalities from the Control Panel have been successfully integrated into the Settings app, streamlining the user experience.

Personally, the occurrence of using the Control Panel has decreased significantly since the arrival of Windows 11, largely due to these positive changes.

One can argue that Microsoft has positively managed the migration of features. While numerous enhancements are still overdue, the Settings application has improved from its Windows 10 version, setting aside the periodic promotional messages for services like Copilot Pro or Microsoft 365 that sometimes clutter the interface.

Moreover, in response to user wishes, recent updates enabled toggling off the Recommended feed in the Start menu, alongside offering a revamped design influenced by feedback from dedicated Windows Insiders and other users passionate about Microsoft’s vision.

The new Start menu exhibits a category layout, where applications are cohesively grouped. While it draws some inspiration from live tiles, the current icons remain static.

Microsoft has claimed that they utilized user feedback as a cornerstone for developing the new Start menu. Engaging true fans of Windows through the Feedback Hub and various interaction methods has been fundamental in refining the user interface.

The company engaged over 300 Windows 11 devotees in studies, as well as live co-creation discussions, meticulously analyzing user reactions to ensure that the transition remains intuitive for everyone.

“Through co-creation, we promise to preserve the essence of the Start menu: all that you require, at your fingertips, ” remarked Microsoft on their user-centered redesigning process.

Why Does Windows 11 Receive Such Harsh Critiques?

Many users find Windows 11 challenging to embrace, often pinpointing specific issues that make the operating system less appealing to them.

Among these concerns are the strict hardware requirements, performance slowdowns, and the intrusive promotions for Edge and Bing, which have been particularly noteworthy criticisms highlighted in various reports.

Fortunately, it appears that the aggressive marketing strategies have eased following a shift in leadership; hence, users may witness fewer pushy ads in their experience.

Ad promoting Bing in Chrome — A Bing pop-up in Chrome.

Many users may have varied opinions regarding feature shortcomings within Windows 11. Personally, my greatest frustration lies with the taskbar, as the inability to relocate it is particularly limiting. What irritates you about Windows 11? Your thoughts are welcomed in our comments section.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main criticisms users have against Windows 11?

The primary concerns include strict hardware requirements, performance issues, intrusive ads for Microsoft’s services, and general dissatisfaction with the UI/UX changes as compared to previous versions.

2. Is Microsoft responsive to user feedback regarding Windows 11?

Yes, Microsoft has shown a willingness to listen to user feedback through various channels, including the Windows Insider Program, and has implemented several updates based on community suggestions.

3. What notable improvements have been made in Windows 11?

Notable improvements include the integration of Control Panel features into the Settings app, a new design for the Start menu based on user feedback, and options to customize or disable the Recommended section in the Start menu.

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