In the ever-shifting landscape of operating systems, Windows 10 remains the undisputed champion, capturing a staggering 71.64% of the global Windows-based operating system market. Surprisingly, its successor, Windows 11, lags behind with a modest 23.61% share, despite being released two years ago.
StatCounter’s comprehensive analysis, spanning Microsoft’s operating systems from Windows 11 down to XP, paints a vivid picture. Windows 7, a stalwart in the digital realm, secured a 3.34% market share, while Windows 8.1 and 8 garnered 0.61% and 0.35%, respectively. Even the ancient Windows XP still clings to relevance with a matching 0.35% share.
Reflecting on this data, it’s evident that Windows 11 hasn’t garnered the rapid adoption its predecessor enjoyed. Two years post-launch, Windows 10 had claimed a substantial 32.84% market share, leaving Windows 11 trailing by a significant 10%.
Currently, over 1.4 billion active devices worldwide run Windows 10 or Windows 11, a testament to Microsoft’s enduring influence. Windows 11, heralded for its enhanced features, like the AI assistant Copilot, widgets, and full DirectStorage support, still falls short in several areas. Criticisms range from its revamped Start menu to a taskbar lacking some of Windows 10’s essential features.
Interestingly, the gaming community, a significant part of the OS user base, also favors Windows 10. According to the September Valve Hardware Survey, it maintains a commanding 58% share, with Windows 11 trailing at 37%, a slightly better result than the global average.
In the dynamic world of operating systems, Windows 10’s resilience showcases the enduring appeal of familiarity and reliability. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Windows 10 stands tall, a testament to Microsoft’s legacy in the tech domain.