On July 29, 2015, Windows 10 was released as the supposed final edition of the Windows series. It swiftly gained popularity due to its improved stability, user-friendly interface, and polish following the turbulent Windows 8.x period. However, with its tenth anniversary approaching, it’s time to say goodbye, as support for this version officially ends on October 14, 2025. From that date forward, no more complimentary updates will be provided unless you sign up for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
Across all versions, starting from 3.x, I’ve had experience with them all. While Windows XP and 7 were fantastic operating systems, Windows 10 stands out as exceptionally exceptional when it comes to user-friendliness, speed, and aesthetics.
It appears that Windows 11 showcases a forward-looking design, yet some of the straightforward and beneficial features cherished by users on Windows 10 have been removed.
Among the aspects that I will dearly miss as we embark on the new phase of our operating system, these stand out the most.
My list of features I’ll miss about Windows 10
Since Windows 10 is about to celebrate its anniversary and reach its ‘end-of-life,’ let me share the aspects I’ll miss the most from it.
1. Clean and functional Start menu design
Initially, the Start menu on Windows 10 struck a harmonious blend of aesthetics and personalization. It merged the conventional list interface from Windows 7 with dynamic Live Tiles from Windows 8, enabling users to attach apps, folders, and webpages in a layout that was both recognizable and adaptable.
As a researcher, I found the full-screen mode particularly useful, frequently employing it during my work. Moreover, the ability to manually adjust the size of the menu by simply dragging its borders offered an intuitive and effortless experience.
Instead, the Start menu in Windows 11 presents a more streamlined and fixed layout, encouraging users to primarily use search functions and providing limited customization opportunities. Compared to Windows 10, it simplifies the process of locating and running applications.
2. Taskbar flexibility that actually respected users
In Windows 10, you can adjust the location of your Taskbar – it can be placed at the top, left, or right side of the screen. Additionally, you have the flexibility to customize a wide range of its functions, such as choosing which system icons appear in the System Tray and even resizing the Taskbar to suit your needs.
In simpler terms, the Taskbar design for Windows 11 is fixed at the bottom, offering fewer functions compared to previous versions, and it’s yet to include some fundamental features that users have long requested, like the ability to move the bar around the screen.
3. Classic File Explorer that worked
The Windows 10 version of File Explorer, although not flawless, proved to be steady, swift, and free from feeling overly bulky. It offered all the essential features required without any noticeable gaps.
As a seasoned analyst, I’ve been exploring the new file manager of Windows 11, and while its contemporary design initially caught my eye, I’ve noticed a few incongruities in the interface, an overcrowding of commands that can sometimes feel overwhelming, and occasionally encounter issues along the way.
4. Less demanding hardware requirements
Over the past ten years, Windows 10 has been compatible with a wide range of computers. Unlike some modern systems, it doesn’t necessitate TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or more recent processors. This extensive compatibility spared both businesses and individual users from unnecessary hardware updates.
While I recognize the rationale behind the focus on security, the new criteria for Windows 11 have resulted in many devices that were previously functional being deemed outdated unexpectedly.
In the present day, it’s still beneficial for those using older computer systems to continue with Windows 10, despite the fact that its support is coming to an end.
5. No AI, fewer distractions
Windows 10 maintained a straightforward approach, even as they eventually added the Copilot application, which is a web-based tool that can be effortlessly removed through the Settings app. Fortunately, you seldom needed to contend with AI models disrupting your computer during most system updates.
For ordinary users, Windows 10 stands as one of the final consumer versions that does not primarily focus on artificial intelligence. Although AI could be our future, many people are not yet prepared for it or do not prefer it at this time.
Instead, Windows 11 persistently integrates AI throughout its entire system, ranging from the Start menu to the Settings application, regardless of whether or not you requested it.
In Windows 10, though the system is designed to gather data in the background as part of its normal functioning, it doesn’t give off a constant surveillance-like feeling.
6. Easy setup with local account during installation
During the initial setup process (Out-of-Box Experience) for Windows 10, particularly on the Home edition, users found it effortless to create a local account with just one simple click. This straightforward option was devoid of hidden steps or complicated workarounds, offering more autonomy and privacy preferences to the users. It was especially beneficial for those who preferred not linking their device to a Microsoft account.
In Windows 11, during the initial setup process, it prompts users to sign in using a Microsoft account. However, for those using the Home Edition, a clear method to create a local account isn’t immediately apparent unless you disconnect from the internet or employ specific commands.
The decision to use a cloud-connected account has frustrated many users who want a simple setup.
It’s time to upgrade
As Windows 10 reaches its tenth birthday, its user-friendly interface and design decisions continue to resonate in today’s tech landscape. In fact, it currently holds the top spot as the most widely used version of the operating system, accounting for 48.89% of the market share (Windows 11 trails slightly behind with 47.83%), according to data from StartCounter.
Regrettably, much like past iterations of the operating system, the support for Windows 10 will conclude following a ten-year period, on October 14, 2025.
Should you currently be using Windows 10, you possess two viable choices:
1. Opt for a complimentary upgrade to Windows 11.
2. Register your device in the Extended Security Updates program to secure regular updates till October 13, 2026.
Which aspects of this current operating system version are you going to find yourself missing the most? (Please share your thoughts in the comments.)
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2025-07-29 22:10