Is It Time to Upgrade to Windows 11? Microsoft Says Yes—But Should You Really Buy a New PC?

When Microsoft introduced Windows 11, it came with a rather blunt message: upgrade your hardware or stay behind. This ultimatum, requiring devices to have a CPU that supports TPM 2.0, has left many users questioning whether they really need to buy a new PC to stay updated. As the clock ticks toward Windows 10’s end-of-support deadline in 2025, Microsoft is now doubling down, encouraging users to swap out their old systems in favor of new hardware. But is this really the best move for consumers—and the environment?

Microsoft’s Push for New PCs: A Bold Recommendation

Microsoft is clear about its stance. In a newly updated FAQ on their support page, the company doesn’t mince words: the best way to stay supported is to buy a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed. The FAQ reads:

“Recommended: New PC with Windows 11. Windows 11 is the most current version of Windows. If you have an older PC, we recommend you move to Windows 11 by buying a new PC. Hardware and software have improved a lot, and today’s computers are faster, more powerful, and more secure.”

While the company does acknowledge that Windows 10 will be supported for another year, it’s clear they’d much rather users embrace the future by investing in new hardware.

Why People Are Holding On to Windows 10

Despite Microsoft’s push, many users are reluctant to upgrade, and for good reason. Some Windows 10 machines are still perfectly capable of running Windows 11—sometimes with even better performance. In fact, a user with a decade-old CPU reported seeing performance improvements after installing Windows 11 24H2.

Instead of buying into the “out with the old, in with the new” mentality, a growing number of people are finding ways to bypass Windows 11’s strict system requirements. From modifying system files to using third-party tools, many have managed to run Windows 11 on older, unsupported devices. This makes it clear: just because a machine doesn’t meet Microsoft’s stringent criteria doesn’t mean it’s no longer viable.

The Waste Problem: Perfectly Good Hardware, Perfectly Bad Advice?

The environmental implications of Microsoft’s suggestion can’t be ignored. The push for new hardware adds to an already massive e-waste issue, where millions of perfectly functional computers are discarded simply because they don’t meet the latest software requirements. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor, over 50 million metric tons of e-waste is generated each year, and this number is only expected to rise. Encouraging users to throw away perfectly usable systems contributes to the growing landfill of electronics, amplifying a problem that the tech industry has yet to properly address.

Alternatives to Buying a New PC

If you’re determined to stick with your current machine, there are a few things you can consider instead of jumping on Microsoft’s upgrade bandwagon:

1. Keep Windows 10 – With support for Windows 10 still available until October 2025, there’s no immediate rush. You can continue to receive security updates and enjoy your current setup without worrying about performance issues.
2. Upgrade Select Components – If your system is lagging behind in certain areas, consider upgrading individual components like the RAM or hard drive. This can often extend the life of your PC for years without requiring a full system replacement.
3. Run Windows 11 on Unsupported Hardware – As mentioned, there are ways to bypass the official system requirements and still enjoy Windows 11. However, this option comes with risks, as future updates might not be guaranteed.
4. Repurpose Old Hardware – If you do decide to buy a new PC, consider repurposing your old machine. Turn it into a media server, donate it, or even use it for parts. This helps prevent adding more e-waste to landfills while getting extra mileage out of your device.

Should You Really Buy a New PC?

While Microsoft’s recommendation may seem like a straightforward solution, it’s not the only path forward. Many systems that don’t meet the official requirements for Windows 11 are still perfectly capable of running it. And with e-waste already being a massive global issue, the idea of discarding functional hardware should be reconsidered.

Ultimately, whether or not you buy a new PC depends on your specific needs. If your current system is truly outdated, it might be worth upgrading. But for those who can get by with a little tweaking—or are simply unwilling to part with a machine that still works fine—there are plenty of ways to keep your old hardware going strong.

In the age of sustainability and conscious consumption, perhaps it’s time to challenge the narrative that newer is always better.