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Windows 11 and 'old 'PC' - do I need to replace it?

(16 Posts)
rowyn Fri 25-Jul-25 12:09:51

My desktop ( Dell) PC is about 10 years old and still working well (Fingers crossed - should never make statements like that - its bound to go wrong now!)

I've recently had a few messages from Microsoft popping up out of nowhere to tell me that when the new Windows comes in (October) my 'device' will not be able to cope with it because it's too old and wont have whatever is needed to get the best from the new Windows.

'Obviously over the last 10 years I've coped fine when a new Windows' arrives, ( sometimes with the help of an expert) but now I'm not sure what to do.

Do I ignore and hope for the best, or should I be looking for a new desktop P.C?

If the latter, would it be best to buy before October and get all the present stuff ( loads of it) from my old PC onto a new one now, ( by a professional) or should I buy once Windows 11 has arrived. I'm beginning to think that it might be better to be prepared, as I would end up with a new device and new Windows and a limited ability to deal with technical stuff.

Or are Microsoft just trying to scare me?

Oh and I have a separate Screen (HP) with speakers - would that still be OK?

rowyn Fri 25-Jul-25 12:12:38

PS,
I mean should I buy a new PC NOW or wait until Windows arrives?

Beechnut Fri 25-Jul-25 12:23:22

Is it just that old Windows won’t be supported?

petra Fri 25-Jul-25 12:23:42

The update means that you won’t be able to download new apps because your device is too old.

Flippinheck Fri 25-Jul-25 12:34:29

If having the latest version of Windows is important to you then get a new PC or laptop. Your old PC will be fine but gradually you will find that Windows updates, and others, no longer work eventually causing some security and functionality issues. If you share files you may also encounter compatibility problems on Microsoft products. I’d tend to carry on until those issues present themselves and then upgrade, but that’s just me.

shysal Fri 25-Jul-25 15:37:17

As I understand it Windows 11 has been with us for quite a while, it is not something new that is coming in October. It is just that the support for version 10 will no longer be available. I think my laptop is new enough to allow the upgrade, so will go ahead nearer October, as I am nervous to attempt it.

ferry23 Fri 25-Jul-25 15:55:48

Which? has an online compatibility checker -

www.which.co.uk/reviews/laptops/article/windows-11-requirements-check-if-your-computer-is-compatible-aMG8l9e7lj56#check-for-windows-11-compatibility

Hithere Fri 25-Jul-25 16:07:11

Honestly, as long as your computer works for your purposes, you are good

I have a 14 year old Mac and I feel no need to replace it yet

Oreo Fri 25-Jul-25 17:29:02

petra

The update means that you won’t be able to download new apps because your device is too old.

Exactly.
We have just updated to a new computer rowyn for the same reason.
Got Windows 11 now with security backup and cloud back up as a package from Currys.Pay a fee for them to set it up for you.

Cabbie21 Tue 30-Dec-25 11:49:24

Jumping on this thread as I am thinking about getting a new laptop. I think mine would take Windows 11 but it is developing a fault which suggests it might die anytime. Also Windows 10 is not supported any longer,

I am daunted at the prospect!
What do I choose?
What do I need?
Will my printer still be compatible?
How do I transfer all my documents, photos etc?
In particular, I still like using Lotus Word Pro for some documents and that is ancient but I still have the software discs.

My husband would have sorted all this for me but sadly he cannot do so from beyond the grave.
I don’t know where to start,

HelterSkelter1 Tue 30-Dec-25 12:08:43

Some Grans often mention seeing their PC advisor or wizard to help with PC problems. I suppose like a financial advisor but for PCs or smart phones etc.
I wonder how they find one. Maybe someone will hop on this thread and tell me....and you.
Sorry I cannot help at all. But I sympathise with your dilemma.

Moth62 Tue 30-Dec-25 12:31:40

We bought a new laptop in October for this reason, as I transcribe interviews, research projects, etc so I need to be sure of updated security. We didn’t want to spend a fortune, so I just googled a person to help us. He transferred everything across for us and was very reasonably priced. If you’re not tech savvy (we aren’t) and you have family who are, but who live a long way away so can’t help (we do), then it really pays to get someone who can look at your old one, advise on a possible new one and then transfer everything across smoothly.

Allira Tue 30-Dec-25 13:20:29

I've recently had a few messages from Microsoft popping up out of nowhere to tell me that when the new Windows comes in (October) my 'device' will not be able to cope with it because it's too old and wont have whatever is needed to get the best from the new Windows.

Be careful - this could be a scam.
Don't press on any links or call any numbers. You could find malicious software downloaded on your PC.

It happened to me a few years ago. Luckily, my PC was still under a five year warranty from JL and they fixed it for me.

If you want to find out about the compatibility of your pc, do so in another way.

Allira Tue 30-Dec-25 13:21:49

Unsolicited Calls/Pop-ups: Microsoft won't call or send pop-ups asking for personal info or to fix your computer if you didn't initiate contact.

bookwormbabe Tue 30-Dec-25 13:39:49

I got a new laptop (Samsung) for this reason. I am trying to learn to love it, although I must admit I prefer the desktop. As an aside, just this morning I was reading that a lot of people think Windows 11 is rubbish, with updates causing al sorts of problems. Some are abandoning Windows and turning to Linux. I know nothing about Linux but I might investigate.

Allira Tue 30-Dec-25 13:51:02

www.which.co.uk/reviews/laptops/article/windows-11-requirements-check-if-your-computer-is-compatible-aMG8l9e7lj56?source_code=911CQJ&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=generic&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21423541351&gbraid=0AAAAADoAS43MjrRyx3IFbUK2X6pWyxIkl&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-IP04LnlkQMVCZFQBh3RhQs4EAAYAiAAEgIKpfD_BwE

Or search for 'Which - check to see if your device is compatible with Windows 11' if you don't want to follow the link.