Every difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 that should interest you

The Windows 11 and Windows 10 operating systems have a lot in common, there are some big differences. The newer version offers a more Mac-like aesthetic and more productivity features—plus the ability to finally Use Android apps on your Windows 11 computer.

Let’s take a look at the big changes Microsoft has made and what’s actually different. And make sure you check out our favorite Windows 11 features and how to use them, everything we wanted in Windows 11 but didn’t get and how Set your default search engine. Once you’re ready, we’ll show you How to download the new operating system.


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Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: Every major difference in operating system

design and interface

Windows 11 desktop with a Microsoft Teams chat

Windows 11 has a new design with a centered Start menu and taskbar.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

Windows 11 brings a brand new, more Mac-like user interface to the operating system. It features a clean design with rounded corners and pastel tones. That iconic start menu also moves to the center of the screen along with the taskbar. Yes you can move it to the left againwhere they are located in Windows 10 if you prefer.

Continue reading: Windows 11 2022 Update: We love these updated features

Android app integration

Windows 11 desktop with Android App Store

With Windows 11, you can finally download Android apps to your PC.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

Android apps are now available for Windows 11 by the Microsoft store, via the Amazon App Store. (There were several ways to access Android apps on Windows 10, including if you had a Samsung Galaxy phonebut it makes it native.) This is what Windows users have been waiting for for years and marks another step towards the merging of mobile and laptop devices.

Continue reading: Windows 11 finally adds Android apps. How to download them

Better support for virtual desktops

Multiple virtual desktops displayed on one monitor

You’ll find that it’s easier to create and switch between different virtual desktops in Windows 11 than in Windows 10.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

Windows 11 lets you Set up virtual desktops similar to a Mac. It allows you to switch between multiple desktops at the same time for home, work, school or gaming. In Windows 10, this feature was more difficult to set up and use.

Continue reading: Windows 11 is here, so does that mean I should buy a new laptop?

Easy transition from monitor to laptop

Multiple app windows on one monitor

Thanks to snap layouts and snap groups, it’s easier to group different sets of windows and apps and switch between a desktop and a monitor.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

The new operating system includes features called Snap Groups and Snap Layouts – Collections of the apps you use at the same time, which are in the taskbar and can be shown or minimized at the same time for easier task switching. They also allow you to easily connect and disconnect a monitor without losing where your open windows are located.

Added Microsoft Teams to the taskbar

A person waves in a Microsoft Teams video

Microsoft Teams is built right into the taskbar in Windows 11 for easier video calling.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

Teams got a facelift and is now built right into the Windows 11 taskbar, making it easier to access (and a bit more like Apple’s FaceTime). You can access Teams on Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS.

Widgets (well, sort of)

Widgets on Windows 11 desktop

Launch widgets from the taskbar in Windows 11 to see information like weather, news, and stocks at a glance.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Josh Goldman/CNET

Although they’ve been around for a while (remember desktop gadgets on Windows Vista?), including in a current Windows 10 updateyou can now Access widgets right from the taskbar and personalize them to see what you like.

Improved touchscreen, voice and pen support

A Windows 11 tablet displays a Pride Month film collection

Microsoft has made using Windows 11 on tablets easier than Windows 10.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

For tablets, Microsoft aims to improve the touch experience, with more space between icons on the taskbar and support for gestures. Windows 11 also adds haptics to your digital pen, so you can hear and feel vibrations when you use it to take notes or draw. Finally, the operating system introduces voice input and commands throughout the system.

Xbox technology to improve the game

Video game astronaut sitting in a spaceship cockpit

Windows 11 brings some technical additions from Xbox for better gaming.

Microsoft/Screenshot by Sarah Tew/CNET

Windows 11 gets certain features found in Xbox consoles, like Auto HDR and DirectStorage to enhance gaming on your Windows PC. This marks another step towards PC and Xbox console integration for Microsoft.

For more information, see everything we know about Windows 11 and How to download the latest operating system from Microsoft.


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