In an a recent notification that has left a number of users frustrated, Microsoft has advised Windows 10 users to consider purchasing new PCs to upgrade to Windows 11. This recommendation comes at a time when many people are struggling financially, making the prospect of buying a new computer an unwelcome suggestion. Even if they have the money, if there's nothing wrong with their system, why buy new? I can understand the security aspect as warned in the end of support notification, but you're not stuck!
For many users, the idea of having to buy a new PC just to upgrade to the latest operating system feels unnecessary and burdensome. The reality is that not everyone can afford to replace their current devices, especially when they are still functioning perfectly well. This situation has sparked a wave of frustration among Windows 10 users who feel that Microsoft should take a different approach.
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| Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop |
Instead of pushing users to buy new hardware, Microsoft could take a page from their Xbox strategy. The Xbox ecosystem allows gamers to enjoy their favorite titles across different generations of consoles, ensuring a seamless experience without the need for constant hardware upgrades. A similar approach could be applied in a slightly different way, where a lite version of Windows 11 could be developed to run on older hardware. Heads get scratched when their specs are better than a number of systems fresh off the lot.
A number of these users we've spoken with believe that the push for new hardware has more to do with selling desktops and laptops than with providing a better user experience. While upgrading to the latest technology can offer benefits, it shouldn't come at the expense of those who are barely getting by.
Alternatives Routes to Consider
For those who are not ready to make the leap to a new PC, there are alternatives that can provide a Windows 10, Windows 11 or a Windows 11-like experience:
Windows 11 OS Deals: Looking for deals on the Windows 11 OS that might make the upgrade more affordable without needing new hardware? We have crazy good deals you can nab for $9.75... because why not?! (Windows 11 + Office Lifetime Bundles also available.)
Linux Distributions: Consider using Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Mint, which offer a user-friendly experience and can run on older hardware. If the programs you use can work on Ubuntu, and you could careless about staying on Windows... are you losing anything? By the way, you can have both operating systems on the same system... just decide on which one you'd like to use at start up:
For gamers, no worries... Ubuntu has you covered. Ubuntu is a versatile operating system that supports a variety of gaming platforms. Here are some of the most popular ones:- Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms and has extensive support for Linux, including Ubuntu. With Steam Play and Proton, you can play many Windows games on Ubuntu.- Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that allows you to manage and play games from different sources, including Steam, GOG, and Epic Games. It also supports Wine, which enables you to run Windows games on Linux. We use the Epic Games platform even more so than we use Steam nowadays (which includes titles beyond just... Fortnite), and if you do too, you're good!
- Wine is a compatibility layer that allows you to run Windows applications, including games, on Linux. It's a powerful tool for playing games that don't have native Linux support.
- PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, making it easier to install and manage Windows games and applications on Linux.
- Heroic Games Launcher is an open-source game launcher for GOG and Epic Games Store. It provides a user-friendly interface to manage and play your games on Linux.
***You can use your Xbox Game Pass, but... take the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate route just like you would with Amazon Luna to stream to your hearts content without the headaches of a workaround.
While the push for new hardware may be frustrating, there are ways to navigate this challenge without breaking the bank... so hopefully you're able to adapt with the information we've provided by October 14, 2025. If it's the perfect opportunity for you to buy new, enjoy and... Game on!
