In July 2025, according to data from the analytics firm StatCounter, Windows 11 has officially surpassed Windows 10 in global usage share within the Windows family of operating systems. This marks a significant milestone in Microsoft’s long-term transition strategy, nearly four years after the release of Windows 11.
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As of the latest report, Windows 11 holds a 52% share , while Windows 10 has declined to 44.6%. Analysts attribute this shift to multiple factors, including Microsoft's increasing promotion of Windows 11 in the light of the end-of-support timeline for Windows 10. The latter is scheduled for October 14, 2025. As that date is coming closer, users become more interested in upgrading to Windows 11. This will allow them to retain access to security updates, modern features, and latest apps.
The growth in Windows 11 adoption gained momentum at the beginning of 2025. By that time, Microsoft increased its efforts on promoting new Windows 11's features such as enhanced AI integration, improved accessibility tools, and the redesigned user interface of the Fluent Design System.
For gamers, Windows 11 offers several advantages not available in Windows 10. These include better integration with Copilot+ PCs, improved DirectStorage technology for faster game asset loading, and support for Auto HDR, that is greatly enhancing the game image. Additionally, the platform provides tighter Xbox ecosystem integration, making it easier for users to manage and play games across devices.
While Windows 10 remains widely used, particularly in enterprise environments and legacy hardware setups, the trend indicates a clear shift toward Windows 11.
Statcounter notes that its the method the use to build the usage stats is browser-based. Obviously, this may be not the best way to collect numbers from the accuracy point of view. But official telemetry sources are not available to the public. Anyway, the observed user preferences pattern now shows a big change.
At the same time, other Windows versions continue to decline significantly:
Windows 7 : 2.35%
Windows 8.1 : 0.29%
Windows 8 : 0.35%
Windows Vista : 0.04%
Windows XP : 0.38%
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