How to Determine if Your Laptop is Running Windows 10 or Windows 11

With the release of Windows 11, many users are curious to know whether their laptop is running the latest operating system or if it’s still on Windows 10. Microsoft has made significant changes to the user interface and features in Windows 11, so it’s important to know which version you’re using to take full advantage of your system’s capabilities. In this article, we’ll guide you through several methods to determine whether your laptop is running Windows 10 or Windows 11.

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1. Check the Start Menu and Taskbar

One of the easiest ways to identify whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11 is by looking at the Start Menu and Taskbar. These elements have undergone significant changes in Windows 11.

Windows 10:

• The Start Menu is located in the bottom-left corner and features a list of apps on the left and live tiles on the right.
• The Taskbar icons are centered by default, but you can move them to the left if you prefer.
• The Search Bar is prominently displayed next to the Start Menu.

Windows 11:

• The Start Menu is centered by default and features a simplified design with pinned apps and a "Recommended" section.
• The Taskbar icons are centered, giving it a more modern and streamlined look.
• The Search Bar is integrated into the Taskbar and can be accessed by clicking the magnifying glass icon.

If your Start Menu and Taskbar look modern and centered, you’re likely using Windows 11. If they resemble the traditional Windows 10 layout, you’re still on Windows 10.

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2. Check the System Settings

Another reliable way to determine your operating system version is by checking the System Settings.

Steps:

1. Press Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to System > About.
3. Under the Windows specifications section, you’ll see the Edition, Version, and OS Build information.

• If it says Windows 10, you’re using Windows 10.
• If it says Windows 11, you’re using Windows 11.

This method provides detailed information about your operating system, including the version number and build.

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3. Use the Winver Command

The winver command is a quick and easy way to check your Windows version.

Steps:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type winver and press Enter.
3. A window will pop up displaying your Windows version and build number.

• If it says Windows 10, you’re on Windows 10.
• If it says Windows 11, you’re on Windows 11.

This method is particularly useful if you want a quick confirmation without navigating through multiple menus.

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4. Check the Desktop Context Menu

The right-click context menu on the desktop has also changed in Windows 11, making it another way to identify your operating system.

Windows 10:

• The context menu is compact and displays a list of options like New, Display settings, and Personalize.

Windows 11:

• The context menu is simplified and features icons next to each option. You’ll need to click Show more options to access the full menu.

If your context menu looks modern and minimalistic, you’re likely using Windows 11. If it’s more traditional, you’re on Windows 10.

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5. Check the Widgets Panel

Windows 11 introduced a new Widgets Panel that provides quick access to news, weather, calendar, and other information.

Steps:

1. Look for the Widgets icon on the Taskbar (it looks like a small square with weather information).
2. Click the icon to open the Widgets Panel.

• If the Widgets Panel opens, you’re using Windows 11.
• If nothing happens or you don’t see the Widgets icon, you’re likely on Windows 10.

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6. Check the System Tray

The System Tray (the area on the right side of the Taskbar) has also been updated in Windows 11.

Windows 10:

• The System Tray includes icons for Wi-Fi, volume, battery, and notifications.
• The Notification Center is accessed by clicking the speech bubble icon.

Windows 11:

• The System Tray has a cleaner design with rounded corners.
• The Notification Center and Quick Settings are combined into a single panel.

If your System Tray looks modern and rounded, you’re likely using Windows 11. If it’s more traditional, you’re on Windows 10.

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7. Check for Windows 11-Specific Features

Windows 11 introduced several new features that are not available in Windows 10. If you notice any of the following, you’re likely using Windows 11:

• Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on a window to see different layout options for multitasking.
• Virtual Desktops: Enhanced virtual desktop support with separate wallpapers for each desktop.
• Microsoft Teams Integration: A dedicated Teams icon on the Taskbar for quick access.
• Android App Support: The ability to run Android apps via the Microsoft Store (requires additional setup).

If you can use these features, you’re on Windows 11.

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8. Check Your Laptop’s Specifications

If you’re still unsure, you can check whether your laptop meets the system requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft has set specific hardware requirements for Windows 11, so if your laptop doesn’t meet them, it’s likely running Windows 10.

Windows 11 System Requirements:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.
• RAM: 4 GB or more.
• Storage: 64 GB or more.
• Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Display: 720p resolution or higher, 9-inch diagonal or larger.

You can check your laptop’s specifications by going to Settings > System > About.

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9. Use Third-Party Tools

If you prefer a more automated approach, you can use third-party tools like CPU-Z or Speccy to check your operating system version. These tools provide detailed information about your hardware and software, including the Windows version.

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Conclusion

Determining whether your laptop is running Windows 10 or Windows 11 is a straightforward process. By checking the Start Menu, Taskbar, System Settings, or using commands like winver, you can quickly identify your operating system version. Additionally, looking for Windows 11-specific features or checking your laptop’s specifications can provide further confirmation.

If you’re still on Windows 10 and want to upgrade to Windows 11, make sure your laptop meets the system requirements and follow Microsoft’s official upgrade instructions. Windows 11 offers a more modern and streamlined experience, so it’s worth considering if your hardware supports it.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to confidently determine whether your laptop is running Windows 10 or Windows 11.