Windows 11 - What are the requirements? Which processor to choose?

Windows 11 - What are the requirements? Which processor to choose?

The new version of the Windows operating system - marked with the number 11 - was released in October 2021. After the relatively successful and much appreciated "ten", it was time for an improvement. Windows 11, presented by Microsoft, represents a significant step in the evolution of the company's operating systems. It brings modern changes to the user interface, improved performance features and some innovative tools. Let's take a closer look at what's new in this system and what hardware requirements it has.

User interface and new features

Windows 11 brings significant changes to the look and functionality of the system. One of the most noticeable is the new taskbar with a centrally placed start menu. These changes were inspired by macOS and Chrome OS, giving Windows 11 a more modern and uncluttered look.

The start menu has been simplified and the tiles familiar from Windows 8 and 10 have been replaced by static icons. The system also introduces Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, which allow for more efficient management of open application windows and easy creation of different window layouts on the screen. Windows 11 also offers direct integration with Microsoft Teams, which facilitates communication and collaboration, especially in times of remote work. Also worth mentioning is the improved Microsoft Store, which now offers a larger number of applications, including support for Android apps thanks to the partnership with the Amazon Appstore.

What about performance and for better experiences?

Windows 11 has been optimized for performance, which translates into faster operation and better resource management. An important aspect is DirectStorage, a technology that enables faster loading of games through direct access to SSD resources, which significantly reduces loading times and improves overall game speed. In addition, Windows 11 introduces Auto HDR, which automatically improves the graphics quality of older games by adding high dynamic range (HDR). Integrated Xbox features such as Xbox Game Pass are an added benefit for gamers.

Hardware requirements for Windows 11 - What Tigers love most!

Windows 11 brings many new features and improvements, so the hardware requirements are more stringent than its predecessor. To install this system, the computer must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster, 2 or more cores, 64-bit, compatible with the list of supported processors.

Nowadays, most processors have at least 1 GHz - even the "budget models". Most, but not all. This is because computers and laptops such as Chromebooks or older devices will not be able to support Windows 11. Often, even if they have Windows 10, they will not receive an update or, worse still, it will remain an "invitation".

• RAM: 4 GB or more
• Storage space: 64 GB or more.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or newer, with WDDM 2.0 driver.
• Display: HD (720p) with a diagonal larger than 9 inches, 8 bits per color channel.

These requirements can be a challenge for older devices, which means that not every Windows 10 user can easily upgrade to the new version of the system. Microsoft has provided the PC Health Check Tool, which allows users to check whether their hardware meets the requirements of Windows 11.

Which processor to choose? What are the best and most economical options?

For users who mainly use their computer for everyday tasks such as web surfing, document work or watching movies, Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 series processors are ideal.

• The 12th generation Intel Core i3-12100 Alder Lake offers 4 cores and 8 threads, which is sufficient for smooth office work and multitasking. With a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 4.3 GHz, this processor offers fast everyday performance.
• The AMD Ryzen 3 4300G, based on the Zen 2 architecture, also has 4 cores and 8 threads. Its base frequency is 3.8 GHz, with a turbo frequency of up to 4.0 GHz. Thanks to the integrated Radeon Vega 6 graphics, it is an excellent choice for less demanding multimedia tasks.

For users who need more computing power for advanced work such as video editing or medium-duty gaming, the Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors are ideal.

• The 12th generation Intel Core i5-12400 Alder Lake offers 6 cores and 12 threads, with a base frequency of 2.5 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 4.4 GHz. This processor offers significantly higher performance, ideal for more intensive tasks and games.
• The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, based on the Zen 3 architecture, also offers 6 cores and 12 threads. With a base frequency of 3.7 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 4.6 GHz, it is an excellent choice for tasks that require more computing power and gaming performance.

For Gaming enthusiasts and demanding users who require the highest performance, higher class processors such as Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 are ideal.

• The 12th generation Intel Core i7-12700K Alder Lake offers 12 cores and 20 threads, with a base frequency of 3.6 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 5.0 GHz. This is the ideal choice for gamers and professionals who need the highest performance for resource-intensive tasks.
• The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, with 8 cores and 16 threads, operates at a base frequency of 3.8 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 4.7 GHz. This processor offers outstanding performance in games and advanced multimedia tasks.

For professionals who need maximum computing power for advanced applications such as video rendering, 3D modeling or big data analysis, Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 series processors are the best choice.

• The 12th generation Intel Core i9-12900K Alder Lake offers 16 cores and 24 threads, with a base frequency of 3.2 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 5.2 GHz. This processor is designed for the most demanding users and offers incredible performance and speed.
• The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, with 12 cores and 24 threads, operates at a base frequency of 3.7 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 4.8 GHz. This is an excellent choice for advanced professional applications and offers exceptional performance and efficiency.

Choosing the right processor for Windows 11 depends on the individual needs of the user. For everyday office work, the Intel Core i3 and AMD Ryzen 3 processors are best suited. For more demanding tasks and games, it is worth investing in Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7. Professionals who need maximum computing power should consider Intel Core i9 and AMD Ryzen 9 processors. By choosing a latest generation processor, users can be sure to have full compatibility with Windows 11 and future updates.