Microsoft really wants you to ditch Windows 10 - fresh deadline warning issued

When Windows 10 support ends, Microsoft wants you to update your PC - or buy a new one

By Henry Burrell, Deputy Technology Editor covers the latest consumer tech news that affects you, from broadband to software, and reviews new gadgets to recommend the best buys

Windows 10

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 (Image: Microsoft/Getty)

Even though it’s still the most popular version of Windows in use around the world, Windows 10 is being phased out by Microsoft in favour of the newer Windows 11. The tech giant has decided to end support for the older operating system, with the clock ticking for loyal users. In an attempt to persuade Windows 10 holdouts to upgrade their PCs, Microsoft has created a new webpage that details the advantages of Windows 11 and provides advice about buying a new computer.

As spotted by Windows Central, the new page details the end of support for Windows 10 and its last official day supported by Microsoft on 14 October 2025. From that date, Windows 10 will no longer receive software updates or security updates.

“Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11,” Microsoft says, before linking out to a page called ‘Meet Windows 11’: “Intuitive navigation. Easy organisation. Faster performance. Plus, new features to unlock your productivity and creativity.”

Microsoft also says Windows is easier to use, more secure, and better for gaming compared to Windows 10. Given the company is choosing to end support for Windows 10, it’s no surprise it is trying to move users to Windows 11 - recent stats suggest Windows 10 accounts for almost 70 percent of PCs worldwide, far more than those on the newer software. Maybe people don’t like change, or don’t want to pay for a new PC.

There’s also a link from the new webpage to a comparison of Windows 11 and Windows 10, highlighting the features that Windows 10 misses out on. It’s quite a long list that includes a new user interface, widgets, smart recommendations in the File Explorer and Start Menu, passkey integration, smart app control and more besides.

Microsoft introduces Windows 11 in 2021

There’s also a link from the new webpage to a comparison of Windows 11 and Windows 10, highlighting the features that Windows 10 misses out on. It’s quite a long list that includes a new user interface, widgets, smart recommendations in the File Explorer and Start Menu, passkey integration, smart app control and more besides.

There is also a section on the site called ‘How to shop for a laptop’ that includes a laptop buying guide and multiple choice questionnaire designed to help you pick a new Windows 11 PC based on your needs. If you currently own a Windows 10 PC, you might be able to update it to Windows 11 for free - you can check this in the Settings app on your computer. But if your machine is too old or doesn’t have the minimum required specifications, it’ll be permanently stuck on Windows 10.

This means that come October 2025 if you want to be fully up to date and secure, Microsoft suggests you buy a new computer. The webpage links out to a guide on how to transfer your data ‘to your new Windows 11 PC’ and how to use OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage platform.

“If you plan to keep using your Windows 10 PC, we understand,” Microsoft states. “Though the end of support date for Windows 10 won’t occur until October 2025, we recommend keeping your files backed up and easily accessible across devices using OneDrive.”

Last week dubbed ‘Copilot+’ PCs. They run processors made by Qualcomm called the Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite, promising much improved performance, battery life, and AI smarts.

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