Windows 10 vs Windows 11

Windows 11: Familiar Yet Refreshed

When hearing about a new operating system, it's natural to feel uneasy. However, the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 isn't as dramatic as it sounds. The underlying code for both systems is largely the same, ensuring a seamless experience for most users. While there are new features and visual updates, the core functionality remains familiar.

A New Look for the Start Menu

One of the first changes users will notice is the updated Start Menu.

• Windows 10 Start Menu: Located in the bottom-left corner, it prominently displays apps and frequently used features.
• Windows 11 Start Menu: Centered on the screen, it takes a minimalist approach, requiring users to click "All Apps" to view the full list. This can be changed in the settings.

While the relocation and streamlined layout might take some getting used to, the functionality is consistent, making the adjustment relatively straightforward.

The Start Menu Details: Compact and Simplified

In Windows 10, the "Me" menu—accessible via icons in the bottom-right corner—offers quick access to settings such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Windows 11 condenses these options into a smaller, more streamlined design. While the functionality hasn't changed significantly, the visual difference might make you pause for a moment as you navigate these settings for the first time.

Desktop Right-Click Menu: Rounded and Icon-Focused

Right-clicking on the desktop in Windows 10 displays a list of options with a traditional, angular layout.

Windows 11 updates this menu with:

• Rounded corners for a modern aesthetic
• Icons next to menu items for quicker visual recognition

While the core options remain the same, these visual enhancements contribute to the refreshed look and feel of Windows 11.

File Explorer: Tabs and Recommendations

File Explorer, a vital tool for many users, receives several updates in Windows 11:

• Frequent Folders vs. Recommended Files: Windows 11 introduces a "Recommended" section that suggests files you might want to revisit, alongside the familiar "Recent Files" feature.
• Updated Icons: Many icons, such as the "Downloads" folder, have been redesigned.
• Tabs for Multitasking: Windows 11 allows users to open multiple folders in tabs within a single File Explorer window, similar to a web browser.

These changes aim to enhance productivity and provide a more intuitive user experience.

Enhanced Multitasking with Advanced Window Snapping

For users who juggle multiple tasks, Windows 11 offers significant improvements to window snapping.

• Windows 10 Snapping: Dragging a window to the edge of the screen automatically resizes it to fill half the display.
• Windows 11 Snapping: Adds advanced options, allowing users to organize multiple windows into layouts with ease.

Dragging a window to the top of the screen reveals layout templates for dividing the screen into two, three, or four sections. This feature is ideal for those working across multiple applications simultaneously.

Windows Co-Pilot: Your Built-In AI Assistant

One of the standout features of Windows 11 is Windows Co-Pilot, an AI-powered assistant similar to ChatGPT.

Co-Pilot allows users to:

• Ask questions and receive quick answers.
• Generate text, such as emails or jokes.
• Create tables for comparison shopping.
• Plan itineraries and more.

This tool is integrated directly into the Windows desktop, providing quick, AI-powered assistance for both personal and professional tasks.