Should You Upgrade Or Replace Your Devices? A Guide For Windows 10 Users

Hodgson Consulting & Solutions

With Windows 10 support officially ending in October 2025, it’s time for businesses and individuals to decide whether to upgrade their current device to Windows 11 or invest in a replacement. Making the right choice depends on several factors, including compatibility, performance, and budget.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine the best option for your needs.

Step 1: Check Compatibility

Before making any decisions, verify if your current hardware meets Windows 11’s system requirements. Microsoft has set strict system requirements to ensure the new operating system runs smoothly and securely. Key requirements include:

A compatible 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores)
4 GB of RAM (8 GB or more is recommended for optimal performance)
64 GB of storage
TPM version 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)

How To Check:

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to quickly assess compatibility.
Review your device’s specifications manually if needed.

Outcome:

If your system fails the compatibility test, you’ll need to upgrade your hardware or consider replacing the device.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Device’s Age

How old is your current hardware? Devices older than 5 years are often slower and less efficient and may not support Windows 11’s requirements.

Reasons To Replace Older Devices:

They’re likely nearing the end of their life cycle.
Upgrading components (like RAM or storage) may not deliver significant performance improvements.
They pose greater security risks due to outdated firmware and hardware vulnerabilities.

Step 3: Assess Your Performance Needs

Does your current hardware meet your day-to-day needs? Consider the following factors:

Speed: Are your devices slowing you down during critical tasks?
Reliability: Do you experience frequent crashes or malfunctions?
Scalability: Will your current hardware handle future software updates and workloads?

When To Upgrade:

If your devices are still performing well, upgrading to Windows 11 may be the most cost-effective solution.

When To Replace:

If performance issues are impacting productivity, replacing your hardware can save you money in the long run by avoiding downtime and inefficiencies.

Step 4: Weigh The Costs

Budget is always a factor when deciding whether to upgrade or replace.

Upgrading Existing Devices:

Costs less up-front (if compatible with Windows 11).
May require additional expenses for component upgrades (e.g., adding more RAM).

Replacing Devices:

Higher up-front cost but better long-term value.
Includes newer hardware designed for Windows 11’s features and security.

Step 5: Consider Future-Proofing

Newer devices come equipped with the latest technology, offering:

Enhanced security features like hardware-based encryption.
Faster processing speeds and improved energy efficiency.
Greater compatibility with modern applications and peripherals.

Investing in replacement devices now can position your business for growth and innovation, ensuring your systems remain efficient for years to come.

Pro Tip: Involve An IT Professional

If you’re still unsure, partnering with an IT provider can simplify the decision-making process. They can:

Assess your current setup.
Recommend whether to upgrade or replace based on your specific needs.
Handle the transition to minimize downtime and disruption.

Take The Next Step

Deciding whether to upgrade or replace your devices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with a FREE Network Assessment to evaluate your systems and get expert guidance on a smooth transition to Windows 11.

Click here to schedule your FREE assessment today! Don’t wait until the October 2025 deadline—take proactive steps now to ensure your business stays ahead.