Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Microsoft lists a one-time $30 USD option for eligible personal Windows 10 PCs to receive critical and important security updates after support ends—but the current U.S. program runs through October 12, 2027, not just one more year. In the U.S., eligible users can also enroll by syncing PC settings or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The available methods and terms may vary by region.
What the $30 Windows 10 offer actually covers
Windows 10 reached its end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft’s current U.S. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) guidance says enrolled eligible devices can receive critical and important security updates through October 12, 2027. The program gives users more time to transition; it does not restore full Windows support. Microsoft’s Windows 10 ESU page describes the program as a way to continue using PCs more securely after the end-of-support date.
The title’s “another year” framing reflects earlier guidance, not the current U.S. consumer end date. Microsoft’s older end-of-support page listed October 13, 2026; its current U.S. guidance now gives October 12, 2027. Earlier guidance and current U.S. guidance show the change.
ESU provides critical and important security updates, as classified under Microsoft Security Response Center severity definitions. It does not include feature improvements, other types of fixes, or general technical support. Microsoft also says ESU does not extend Windows 10’s product lifecycle or its general-support period. See Microsoft’s Product Lifecycle FAQ for Extended Security Updates.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
What enrollment costs in the U.S.
Microsoft currently lists three consumer enrollment methods for eligible U.S. devices. The cash option is a one-time $30 USD payment, plus applicable tax, rather than an annual subscription. The other listed methods do not require that payment:
- Pay $30 USD: a one-time purchase, plus applicable tax.
- Sync PC settings: enroll at no additional cost through Microsoft’s settings-sync option.
- Redeem Microsoft Rewards points: use 1,000 points.
Microsoft says options and timing can differ by region, including in the European Economic Area. These U.S. terms should not be assumed to apply everywhere; check the enrollment offer shown in Settings and Microsoft’s current ESU guidance.
Rank #2
- 15.6" diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge, BrightView, 220 nits, 45% NTSC.
Who can enroll and how
The consumer program is for personal-use PCs running Windows 10 version 22H2 in most markets where Windows is available. Devices managed by an organization or enrolled in enterprise licensing programs are excluded. A Microsoft account sign-in is required. Microsoft says enrollment is available until the program ends, but joining later does not move the October 12, 2027 coverage end date.
- On an eligible Windows 10 version 22H2 PC, open Settings and go to the built-in Windows 10 ESU enrollment tool. Microsoft says eligible devices can enroll through Settings; the exact prompt may depend on the device and region.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account when prompted.
- Review the available enrollment methods and terms displayed for your region, then choose an option to complete enrollment.
If the enrollment option does not appear, check that the PC is on version 22H2 and is not organization-managed or covered by enterprise licensing. Microsoft’s ESU page has the program’s eligibility and enrollment details.
Rank #3
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor
- 12GB system memory for full-power multitasking
- 256GB Solid State Drive
- 15.6" Micro-edge touchscreen display
What happens if you do not enroll
A Windows 10 PC will continue to function after end of support, but Microsoft says it will no longer receive regular security updates, feature updates, or general technical support. Antivirus software alone cannot replace operating-system security updates. ESU is therefore a limited security bridge, not a guarantee that a Windows 10 PC has the same support or protection as a supported operating system. Microsoft explains end-of-support consequences on its Windows end-of-support page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you pay for ESU or move to Windows 11?
The practical choice depends on whether your current PC can run Windows 11, whether you want to keep it, and whether one of the no-additional-cost enrollment methods suits you. Microsoft says eligible existing PCs can upgrade to Windows 11 for free; if your PC is ineligible or you are ready to replace it, a Windows 11 PC is another option. ESU is not a requirement to buy a new computer.
Rank #4
- Latitude 7480 Laptop 14"
- Intel Core i7 6th Gen i7-6600U -Core Processor 2.6GHz (3.4GHz With Turbo Boost)
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive & 16GB Memory
- 1920x1080 FHD resolution Non-Touch with Webcam and an integrated graphics chip
- Wireless Wifi & Bluetooth
- Consider ESU if you need more time with your current PC and accept that the program supplies only critical and important security updates through a fixed end date.
- Check the Windows 11 upgrade path if preserving the current PC is your priority and it qualifies for the free upgrade.
- Consider a replacement PC if your existing device cannot upgrade or you are ready for new hardware.
- Compare the enrollment methods before paying: the U.S. offer also lists settings sync and 1,000 Rewards points, while regional terms may differ.
Microsoft’s lifecycle FAQ lists October 13, 2026 as the year-one ESU end date, October 12, 2027 as the year-two end date, and October 10, 2028 as the year-three end date. Those lifecycle milestones are distinct from the current consumer guidance’s stated coverage through October 12, 2027; consult the applicable program terms rather than assuming the consumer offer extends to the later lifecycle date.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
