Windows 11 increased its market share for the sixth consecutive month and reached historic usage levels in October. This growth went hand in hand with the drop in the percentage of computers that currently run Windows 10, although said operating system still remains unbeatable.
Last month, Windows 11 recorded 35.55% of the market share overall among PCs with Microsoft software. The bullish trend it started in may and has remained strong in the subsequent months, allowing the current version of the OS to reach the highest percentage of utilization since it was released in 2021.
It is important to remember that Windows 11 started the year with a share of 27.8%; However, it suffered a considerable drop in March and April that left it just above 26.1%. But starting in the fifth month of 2024, it chained a series of upward periods that have allowed it to be where it is today.
The rise of Windows 11 is surely explained by the marketing of new computers – especially laptops – that arrive with this version, and by the update of equipment already in operation because Windows 10 will be out of support in less than a year. Still, Microsoft’s latest software has a long way to go before matching the figures of his predecessor.
Since the beginning of the second half of 2024, it was evident that Windows 11 had begun to close the gap with Windows 10. In September, meanwhile, Microsoft’s most recent operating system became the favorite of Steam players, confirming its growth in the area of gaming.
Windows 11 usage reaches all-time highs; Windows 10 holds firm
Despite complaints against Redmond for harassment and intrusive Windows 11 promotion campaigns, everything indicates that the efforts have begun to bear fruit. However, as we said previously, the current OS is growing at a steady pace It does not imply that it is close to surpassing the almighty Windows 10.
From May 2024 onwards, Windows 10’s market share has fallen by almost 9%, yet it remains by far the most used version. Today it accounts for 60.97% of computers running Microsoft software. A beastliness that continues to eclipse both Windows 11 and rival platforms.
Let’s keep in mind that Windows—regardless of its version—is the most used computer operating system in the world with 74.41% of the market share. That of the total number of computers with the Microsoft OS, more than 60% continue to use Windows 10, is truly shocking.
Windows 11 growth likely remains at a good pace throughout 2025. Especially, as more computers migrate from Windows 10 that will be left without support. However, that does not necessarily mean that the most recent version of the operating system can become the most used in the world next year.
Many users surely choose to stay on Win10 indefinitely, even if you no longer receive updates. You can also pay $30 per year per device to receive extended updates, although in the case of consumers this will only be offered for one year. The option will be in force for longer for companies, educational institutions and government entities or agencies, although it will become more expensive each year.
