It doesn't add value, and upgrading isn't necessary.
It doesn't add value, and upgrading isn't necessary.
I've been using Windows 11 on my Dell Latitude E5450. Honestly, I'm confused about its purpose. It feels like just a fresh look for Windows 10. But overall, Windows 11 doesn't seem useful to me. I won't upgrade my main workstation to Windows 11. I turned off my TPM on the motherboard because it's unnecessary and I don't want Microsoft controlling what I run. Plus, many of my DAW plugins probably won't work with it. I haven't noticed any performance gains either. At the end of the day, this is just about the marketing hype that Microsoft is known for. Windows 10 works just fine as it is, and I wish I had Windows 10 LTS on my machine—something like a Ryzen 5950x with 64GB RAM and an RTX 3060 12GB. Even if Windows 10 support ends, I won't waste time reinstalling it just because someone big says so. Please tell me others share this view—it's not worth it.
The main improvements in Windows 11 are mostly hidden in the core operating system, so you won’t notice them right away. For example, DirectStorage will likely become clearer as more games adopt it. Regarding the user interface, I feel the 11 version is a significant step back, but I’ll keep using it for security and gaming performance. For everyday tasks, I’m mainly a Linux user, so if I had the chance, I’d switch to Linux completely—it felt like a drop in quality after version 7.
I dislike many aspects of this situation. The constant false information from Microsoft about Windows 10 being the final version and their ongoing support for it is frustrating. My workflow prevents me from using Linux, so I remain tied to Windows 10, which isn’t terrible but definitely not ideal. I also dislike technology marketing in general. The upcoming AI integration only adds more confusion, as it’s a niche feature that benefits barely anyone. I’m considering reverting to Windows 10, though I already have some newer software installed on my 11 system. I only tried 11 on my E5450 just for testing purposes.
I need Windows for gaming and AI enhancement, mainly commercial tools. It’s a bit ironic since the upscaling software relies on open-source solutions, yet its integration is what poses the challenge. Commercial programs make things more practical, especially because they handle model training—a process that requires skill and time. I’ve always disliked all the enhancements added to Windows (and smartphones with MacOS) that automate tasks; it goes against my workflow. I prefer keeping files in familiar places without worrying about metadata or indexing. I’d rather let my OS search only within local apps, not rely on external services. That’s why I share concerns about AI impacting the operating system. The exception might be face detection for organizing photos, but if I need it, I’ll install Nextcloud outside of OS control. This highlights another issue: after Windows 7, it became harder to disable unwanted features, and that’s why I feel things deteriorated. I get why Windows 11 was introduced, as it would have offered clearer boundaries—especially since updates for 10 already brought significant changes. They labeled it Windows 11 to signal a major shift, hinting at a point where older hardware would be better left untouched.
Fortunately, I relied on WinAeroTwerker and PowerToys on both my Windows versions. This prevents online searches when looking for my PC. The main issue is that there aren't many options left, and Microsoft seems to ignore feedback outside their own circles. My concern is what happens after Windows 10 support ends—should I continue using it or wait for a better solution? Just keep going?
Most people have noted that Windows 11 includes more underlying improvements. Personally, I find Windows 11 excellent because it pushed me to completely revert to using Linux on my systems. Don’t look back. Keep using Windows 10 as long as possible. An LTSC might be worth considering. Another choice is to set up Linux and run Windows 10 in a virtual machine.
I don't know if software like FL Studio and VST/VST3 plugins would play very nicely or not. I've also locked my Windows 11 on my laptop to 21H2 using Group Policy. Do you know how to switch Windows 10 to LTSC with my current install? I don't want to switch by reinstalling. I wonder how many users Microsoft is gonna have to lose before they revert back and listen to people.
On LTSC it seems like just a minor upgrade. From a design standpoint, LTSC appears similar to regular retail Windows 10. I think Windows 12 would likely be a superior version. LOL. It feels like Microsoft is stuck in a Tick-Tock cycle. At the same time, Linux is becoming increasingly acceptable for users each day.
I’m not sure about purchasing a Windows LTSC key at a low cost. Let me know if you’d like advice on other options or alternatives.