iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For everyday sign-in to a personal Windows 11 PC, a Windows Hello PIN is a practical default if you can protect the device and keep your account recovery options current. It is tied to that device and is different from your Microsoft account password. The password does not necessarily disappear: you may still need it to recover access or use your Microsoft account elsewhere.
PIN vs. password: what is the difference?
A Windows Hello PIN is associated with one device, while a Microsoft account password is an account credential. Microsoft states that the PIN used to access a device is different from the Microsoft account password. That means your Windows PIN is not simply the same password saved in a shorter form; it is intended for sign-in on the device where it was set up. Microsoft’s Windows Hello guidance explains the PIN’s device association, and its PIN reset guidance distinguishes it from the account password.
This difference matters if a credential is exposed. A device-associated PIN does not have the same account-wide scope as a password that you also use for Microsoft account services. Reusing an account password across other services can increase the consequences if that password is compromised. A PIN should still be kept private, and a password remains important for account access and recovery.
Recommended Free Tools
Which sign-in method should you choose?
| Consideration | Windows Hello PIN | Traditional password |
|---|---|---|
| Credential scope | Associated with one device. | Microsoft account password applies to the account and may be used for other account access. |
| Everyday entry | Usually convenient for signing in on that PC; Windows Hello also supports face or fingerprint when the device has compatible hardware. | Requires entering the account password at sign-in when password sign-in is available. |
| Forgotten credential | Microsoft-account users may see “I forgot my PIN” on the sign-in screen; local-account users need a different route. | Reset steps depend on whether the account is a Microsoft account or a local Windows account. |
| Measured security or speed advantage | The cited Microsoft guidance does not provide controlled head-to-head testing establishing that one is categorically safer or faster. | |
For most personal PCs, use a PIN for routine local sign-in and retain a working way to recover the Microsoft account or local account. A password can still be preferable when PIN recovery is not practical or when you need to sign in using the password, but the choice is not a universal security ranking: Microsoft’s cited pages document how each works and how to recover, not a quantitative comparison.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
How to set up or manage Windows Hello
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Choose the Windows Hello option you want, such as PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint, and follow the on-screen setup.
Face and fingerprint sign-in require compatible hardware; if the PC does not support them, a PIN remains a Windows Hello choice. Microsoft lists these options in its Configure Windows Hello guidance. Available sign-in options can also depend on device configuration, as described in Sign-In Options in Windows.
Can you make Windows sign in without the Microsoft account password?
On a device signed in with a Microsoft account, Windows offers an account-specific setting that removes the password sign-in option on that device. Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and turn on For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device. With the setting enabled, use Windows Hello face, fingerprint, or PIN to sign in to that Microsoft account on the device. Microsoft says this setting is available only for Microsoft accounts; it does not mean the account password has ceased to exist for other account uses or recovery.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
See Microsoft’s Go passwordless in Windows instructions before enabling it, particularly if you depend on password sign-in as a fallback on that PC.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What to do if you forget your Windows 11 PIN
- At the Windows sign-in screen, select I forgot my PIN if the option appears. Microsoft documents this route for Microsoft accounts, not local accounts.
- Complete the identity and account recovery prompts to set a new PIN.
- If that sign-in-screen option is unavailable, sign in with your password and reset the PIN under Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
Microsoft’s PIN change and reset instructions cover these routes. Password recovery is separate: use the reset process for the account type you have, since Microsoft-account and local-account password resets differ.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Other sign-in options: security keys
A FIDO2-compatible physical security key is a separate sign-in method, not a requirement for setting up or using a PIN. Microsoft documents USB and NFC security keys for Microsoft-account sign-in and includes security keys among Windows sign-in options. Check that the key and account support the sign-in flow you intend to use; see Microsoft’s security key sign-in instructions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
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.
