Half a Billion Reject Windows 11
Despite Compatibility
During its Q3 2025 earnings call, Dell disclosed that approximately 500 million users worldwide are refusing to upgrade to Windows 11, despite their computers meeting the necessary hardware requirements. This resistance highlights ongoing user hesitation to transition to Microsoft's latest operating system. Dell's report underscores the challenges Microsoft faces in pushing adoption of Windows 11 across the PC market.
The reluctance may be attributed to a variety of factors including user comfort with Windows 10, concerns about compatibility or performance, and preferences for existing workflows. Dell’s insight provides a unique perspective on real-world adoption trends beyond official upgrade statistics. As Windows 11 continues to mature, it remains to be seen how Microsoft and PC manufacturers will address this sizeable portion of the user base holding back from upgrading.