The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Yes—Microsoft currently offers a free upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for eligible PCs. The computer must meet Windows 11’s minimum system requirements, and Microsoft says the offer has no specific end date for eligible systems while reserving the right to end it. To check your PC, open Windows Update or run Microsoft’s PC Health Check app.
Why does Microsoft still allow the free upgrade?
Microsoft presents Windows 11 as the recommended destination for Windows 10 users and offers the upgrade without charge to eligible devices. That messaging, alongside the end of Windows 10 support, suggests the offer is intended to help users transition to a supported operating system. Microsoft has not published a definitive explanation of its corporate reasons for continuing the offer, so that rationale is an inference rather than a confirmed statement.
Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page says: “The free upgrade offer does not have a specific end date for eligible systems. However, Microsoft reserves the right to eventually end support for the free offer.” Because availability can change, check the page and Windows Update when you are ready to upgrade: Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page.
Is Windows 11 still free, and who can upgrade?
Microsoft’s support FAQ says upgrades from Windows 10 to Windows 11 are free, subject to the PC meeting Windows 11’s minimum system requirements. Not every Windows 10 computer qualifies. Check the device itself rather than relying on its age, brand, or the fact that it runs Windows 10. Microsoft’s current eligibility guidance is in its Windows 11 upgrade FAQ.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
- 4GB DDR4 System Memory; 128GB Solid State Drive
- 11.6" HD (1366 x 768) Multi-Touch Display
- Combo headphone/microphone jack - Noble Wedge Lock slot - HDMI; 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1
- Windows 11 Pro
For an eligible PC running a genuine Windows 10 copy, Microsoft says the free upgrade activates with a digital license. Its documented free-upgrade route does not require buying a separate product key. See Microsoft’s Windows activation guidance.
How do I get the free Windows 11 upgrade?
- Check Windows Update. In Windows 10, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then select Check for updates. If Windows 11 is offered for your PC, follow the on-screen instructions.
- Check compatibility if the offer is unclear. Run Microsoft’s PC Health Check app to assess whether the device meets Windows 11’s requirements. A work- or school-managed PC may also require an administrator’s approval or deployment schedule.
- Back up important files. Microsoft recommends backing up before you move to Windows 11. Its guidance mentions Windows Backup and OneDrive. The download is large and may incur charges if your internet connection is metered.
- Install Windows 11 and confirm activation. Follow the installation prompts. Afterward, check activation in Windows settings; an eligible device with a genuine Windows 10 installation should use a digital license.
Microsoft’s instructions and preparation guidance are available on its Windows 11 FAQ and Windows 10 end-of-support page.
Rank #2
- Everyday Performance for School and Light Work: A Core M3 2-core, 4-thread processor with a 1.1GHz base frequency and up to 3.0GHz turbo supports online classes, homework, documents, spreadsheets, email, web browsing and video calls for everyday study and entry-level office tasks.
- Crisp 15.6-Inch FHD IPS Display: The 1920x1080 Full HD IPS screen provides a clear, spacious view for homework, notes, presentations, online lessons, web research and streaming at home, school or work.
- 128GB SSD with Room to Grow: The M.2 2280 SATA SSD supports fast startup and everyday file access, with storage expansion up to 2TB. The laptop includes 4GB DDR3 1333MHz memory in two SO-DIMM slots with one slot currently in use.
- Versatile Ports and Wireless Connectivity: Connect accessories and displays through two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, USB-C for charging and USB 2.0 data, HDMI 1.4, a 3.5mm audio jack and a MicroSD card slot, plus dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.
- Lightweight for Study and Work: At 3.46 lbs and 0.76 inch thin, the DGBook is easy to carry between home, school and work. A 7.7V 5000mAh lithium-ion polymer battery, 2.0MP webcam, dual microphones and dual speakers support everyday portable use and video calls.
What changed when Windows 10 support ended?
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Windows 10 PCs still run, but Microsoft no longer provides standard Windows 10 software and feature updates, security updates and fixes, or technical support. Staying on Windows 10 therefore means using an operating system that no longer receives standard support.
Microsoft says security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will continue until October 10, 2028. That date applies to Microsoft 365 Apps security updates only; it does not extend Windows 10 operating-system support. See Microsoft’s end-of-support guidance.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
What if my PC can’t upgrade to Windows 11?
Microsoft identifies two alternatives for a Windows 10 PC that does not meet Windows 11 requirements:
- Consider the consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Microsoft describes this as a one-year security-update bridge for eligible Windows 10 consumers. It is not a free Windows 11 upgrade; check Microsoft’s current ESU information for eligibility and terms.
- Move to a Windows 11-capable PC. Microsoft lists replacing the computer as an option when the existing hardware cannot meet Windows 11 requirements. Verify any replacement against the requirements before buying.
Which option makes sense depends on ESU eligibility and terms, the cost and timing of replacement, and whether your existing hardware can run the software you need. Microsoft does not provide a universal cost comparison. Its alternatives and support details are on the Windows 10 end-of-support page.
Rank #4
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 1x USB Type C, 2x USB Type A, 1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS
Can I go back to Windows 10 after upgrading?
Microsoft says you have 10 days after upgrading to return to Windows 10 while retaining the files and data migrated to Windows 11. After that period, its described route is to back up your data manually and perform a clean Windows 10 installation. Since Windows 10 support has ended, returning to it does not restore a supported operating system. Check Microsoft’s Windows 11 FAQ for rollback guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics,
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 3x USB Type A,1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS, Dale Blue
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