After nearly four years since its launch, Windows 11 has finally outpaced Windows 10 to become the most popular operating system from Microsoft. This transition comes just months before Windows 10 is set to lose support on October 14, 2025.

The rise to prominence for Windows 11 wasn’t entirely unexpected, given the limited time left for Windows 10 users. The adoption of Windows 11 has been gradual over the years, but recent data indicates that in July 2025, the number of Windows 11 users finally eclipsed those remaining on Windows 10.

A contributing factor to this substantial shift might be the fact that since 2021, all new Windows laptops have been shipped with Windows 11, leading many users to naturally migrate to the latest OS when acquiring new hardware.

As users continue to transition from Windows 10, Microsoft has recently provided some options for those hesitant to upgrade. They have introduced solutions allowing users to stay on Windows 10 for a little longer, albeit this option is intended to be temporary.

While some holdouts may continue to use older Windows versions, it is not advisable for individual users to stay on Windows 10 post support cessation, given the risks involved with security updates ending. As with technology, change is inevitable—and adapting to Windows 11 might open users to newer, more efficient capabilities, including integrated AI tools.

For those discontent with Windows, Linux distributions present viable alternatives, especially for users with older hardware, thanks to their compatibility with various applications. Regardless of the shifts, the popularity tide has clearly turned towards Windows 11 as many Windows 10 users are set to follow suit.