Moving to a Windows 10 PC

Making the move to a new Windows 10 PC? We’re happy you’re here and we’ve got you covered.

This guide will help you discover the best Microsoft has to offer and help you transfer your favorite files and apps to your new device so you can get up and running quickly, and get back to doing what you love.

If you’re on a Windows 7 device, note that support has ended and we recommend you move to a Windows 10 PC to stay secure. Learn more about the Windows 7 end of support and how to get Windows 10.

Step 1: Learn the benefits of a modern Windows 10 PC

Shopping for a new PC? Watch videos about common device-related terms you might come across in your research, including storage types, graphics processing units, and more.

Regular updates are built in to Windows 10, meaning you’ll always have the latest features. Explore what‘s new in the latest Windows 10 updates.

Get customized info about your current Windows 7 PC health and performance with the Guide to Windows 10 app (for Windows 7 devices).

Step 2: Purchase your new PC

For quicker startup times, longer battery life, and more responsive apps, a new PC has you covered. Find a new PC that fits your needs.

Step 3: Sign in with Microsoft to streamline your experience

Never forget a password again. Get personal access to all things Microsoft with a single, secure sign-on, plus get free OneDrive storage to help you move your files to your new PC. Good news—if you have an Xbox or Office account, you may already have a Microsoft account. You can also sign in with any email to get started.

Step 4: Bring your files and favorites with you

There’s no need to leave your files or browser favorites behind. Bring them with you to your new PC using one of the following options. We recommend using OneDrive so your files are backed up and protected in the cloud.

Select your current version of Windows to find instructions on how to move your files.

How to Use Windows 10

Windows 10 is the most powerful operating system that Microsoft has ever made, but it’s also the most complex. While the user interface is extremely intuitive, you’ll have to dig a little deeper to customize your experience, get maximum performance and make the most of features such as the Cortana voice assistant, Edge browser and multiple desktops. If you’re still using Windows 7 and dread its impending death, then we’ve put together this helpful guide to ease your transition into Windows 10.

Below, you’ll find over 100 Windows 10 tips and tutorials, split into nine categories and designed to help you learn the basics, disable common annoyances, save storage or be more productive.

Windows 10 Basics

Learn how to install Windows 10, tweak the most important settings, add users and perform key, everyday tasks.

Customize Windows 10

Tweak the Windows UI so it looks and feels just the way you like it. Change the theme, adjust the icon size, or turn the new OS into a dead ringer for Windows 7.

Fix Annoyances and Problems

We love Windows 10, but like a close relative, sometimes it can overstep boundaries and get on your nerves. Learn how to prevent the operating system from restarting to update without your permission, speed up a slow-opening Downloads folder or disable personalized ads. Also, find out how to fix serious problems by booting into your BIOS, running older programs in compatibility mode or even rotating your screen.

Cortana Tips

Windows 10’s built-in digital assistant can help you gather important information, manage your schedule, send messages and more. Find out how to wake Cortana with a voice command, use her to send email, have her ring your phone, change her accent and more.

Edge Browser Tips

The default Microsoft browser is blazing fast and dead simple. Here’s how to perform a variety of tasks in Edge, from common actions like blocking pop-ups, managing favorites and clearing cookies to tweaking key settings like the default search engine or crash-recovery options.

Performance and Productivity

Make both Windows 10 and yourself faster and more powerful. Configure the operating system to boot faster, mirror your screen to an external monitor, record your Xbox games, or activate the platform’s built-in «God Mode.»

Security and Networking

Connect your PC to a network or use it as a hotspot while keeping your system secure. Learn how to create limited-privilege guest accounts, password-protected folders and more.

Storage and Backup

Find extra space on your hard drive or SSD by making Windows as small as possible, installing apps on an SD card and deleting the unnecessary Windows.old folder. Make the most of Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud backup service by controlling which folders you sync, mapping your account as a network drive and more.

Windows File Explorer Tips

Every time you browse through your hard drive, copy files over from a USB Flash drive or organize your photos folder, you’re using File Explorer. Make this most of this important utility by taking advantage of all its features and customizing the UI.

Paint 3D Tips

Learn how to make the most of Microsoft’s built-in drawing program.

Windows 10 laptops

Power, speed, and productivity—get it all with our best laptops.

Feature Key

Windows Hello is the password-free sign-in that gives you the fastest, most secure way to unlock your Windows devices. Using your face, fingerprint or companion device, it recognizes you apart from all others.

Cortana is your truly personal digital assistant designed to help you get things done. Ready on day one to provide answers and complete basic tasks, Cortana learns over time to become more useful every day.

Take notes, navigate, draw, doodle, and edit with a digital pen.

Windows enables your touchscreen PC or 2-in-1 to provide a touch-first experience for those times when you want your device to feel like a tablet.

As the most secure Windows ever built, Windows 10 delivers comprehensive protection—including anti-virus, firewall, and anti-phishing technologies—for the supported lifetime of your device.

Embedded SIM Card

These computers are equipped with eSIM. It means they have a SIM built in and you can set up the device from almost anywhere—even from home—by using the mobile plans app. You don’t have to go to a physical store.

SIM Card Required

These computers require you to purchase and activate a SIM card from your mobile provider separately. Insert the SIM card into the slot on your PC and you’ll be ready to go.

With Windows 10 in S mode, you can search the web or stream movies with Microsoft Edge, choose your own cloud storage, and download your favorite apps, with the most secure Windows experience ever. And if you want a choice of browsers, you can switch out of S mode at any time.

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The filters below will help you narrow your search. Select the show all filters button to see the complete list.

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Laptops

Windows 10 laptops give you everything you love and more. Browse our new laptops to find deals on laptop computers that deliver speed, power, familiarity, and the latest processors and features. Compare up to 3 Windows devices by selecting the compare checkbox below each device.

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 All specifications are subject to change without notice. Please check with each retailer for exact offers. Products may not be available in all markets. Displayed prices are current lowest prices offered by stated retailers and are subject to change. Prices are not offered by Microsoft unless stated.

2 Windows Hello requires specialized hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.

3 Cortana available in select markets; experience may vary by region and device.

4 Touch capable tablet or PC required. Pen accessory may be sold separately.

5 Windows 10 in S mode works exclusively with apps from the Microsoft Store within Windows. Some accessories and apps compatible with Windows 10 may not work (including some antivirus and accessibility apps) and performance may vary, even after switching out of S mode. If you switch out of S mode, you can’t switch back. Learn more at windows.com/SmodeFAQ.

6 System software uses significant storage space. Available storage is subject to change based on system software updates and apps usage. 1 GB= 1 billion bytes. See Surface Storage for more details.

7 Internet access required.

10 Games and certain content subscriptions sold separately. Ultra HD availability subject to your Netflix subscription plan, Internet service, device capabilities, and content availability. www.netflix.com/TermsOfUse to run Netflix in 4K on a PC device, it must have a 4K-capable screen and use a 7th generation (Kabylake) Intel chipset.

11 LTE connection requires wireless carrier plan, sold separately.

12 Up to 9 hours of battery life for local video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in June 2018 using preproduction Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y Processor, 128GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.

13 Up to 13.5 hours of battery life for local video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in August 2018 using preproduction Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.

14 Up to 14.5 hours of battery life for local video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in September 2018 using preproduction Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during local video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.

16 Up to 12.5 hours for video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in November 2017 using preproduction Intel Core i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM LTE device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: LTE enabled and device connected to LTE Network. WiFi and Bluetooth in airplane mode and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.

17 Listed battery life for each computer is provided by manufacturers or retailers unless otherwise stated. Please check individual specifications on retailer or manufacturer site for full battery life details. Battery life varies with settings, usage, and other factors.

18 Surface Go with LTE Advanced: Up to 8.5 hours of battery life for local video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in October 2018 using preproduction Intel® Pentium® Gold 4415Y Processor, 128GB, 8GB RAM LTE Advanced device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: LTE enabled and device connected to LTE Network. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in airplane mode and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.

19 LTE functionality only available on the following consumer configuration: Surface Go Intel® 4415Y/128GB SSD/8GB RAM with LTE Advanced. Service availability and performance subject to service provider’s network. Contact your service provider for details, compatibility, pricing, SIM card, and activation. See all specs and frequencies at surface.com.

20 eSIM capable PC required. Not all carriers support eSIM.

21 Mobile Plans application requires specialized hardware, including cellular modem and SIM card or eSIM. Please check with PC manufacture for details. SIM may be sold separately.

22 LTE functionality only available on Surface Pro i5/256GB SSD/8GB with LTE Advanced. Service availability and performance subject to service provider’s network. Contact your service provider for details, compatibility, pricing, SIM card, and activation. See all specs and frequencies at surface.com. Availability of data plans for eSIM varies by market and by carrier.

23 Up to 15 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in September 2020 (Surface Pro X with Microsoft SQ® 1 and Surface Pro X with Microsoft SQ® 2) using preproduction software and preproduction configurations of Surface Pro X. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. Tested with Windows Version 10.0.19041.1(20H1) and Edge version 85.0.564.51. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

24 Up to 11.5 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in September 2019 using preproduction software and preproduction 13.5” Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM and 15” AMD Ryzen™ 5 3580U Mobile Processor with Radeon™ Vega 9 Graphics Microsoft Surface® Edition devices. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

25 Up to 10.5 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in September 2019 using preproduction software and preproduction Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

26 Up to 17 hours of video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in October 2017 using preproduction Intel® Core™ i7, 512GB, 16 GB RAM dGPU device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

27 Up to 17 hours of video playback. Testing conducted by Microsoft in October 2017 using preproduction Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and Auto-Brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

28 Surface Go 2: Up to 10 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in February 2020 using preproduction software and preproduction configurations of Surface Go 2. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

29 Surface Go 2 with LTE Advanced: Up to 10 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in February 2020 using preproduction software and preproduction configurations of Surface Go 2. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage.

30 LTE functionality available on select configurations only. Service availability and performance subject to service provider’s network. Contact your service provider for details, compatibility, pricing, SIM card, and activation. See all specs and frequencies at surface.com.

31 Up to 15.5 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in April 2020 using preproduction software and preproduction configurations of Surface Book 3 13.5” Intel® Core™ i5, 256GB, 8 GB RAM. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

32 Up to 17.5 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in April 2020 using preproduction software and preproduction configurations of Surface Book 3 15” Intel® Core™ i7, 256GB, 16 GB RAM. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

33 Up to 13 hours of battery life based on typical Surface device usage. Testing conducted by Microsoft in September 2020 using preproduction software and preproduction Surface Laptop Go Intel® Core™ i5, 128GB, 8 GB RAM Microsoft Surface® Edition devices. Testing consisted of full battery discharge with a mixture of active use and modern standby. The active use portion consists of (1) a web browsing test accessing 8 popular websites over multiple open tabs, (2) a productivity test utilizing Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook, and (3) a portion of time with the device in use with idle applications. All settings were default except screen brightness was set to 150nits with Auto-Brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.

† Games, apps, and certain content subscriptions sold separately and required for 4K streaming or gaming. 4K functionality available with supported monitors and graphics chips. Check PC to determine graphics chip compatibility. Broadband internet may be required; ISP fees apply.

* Roaming fees may apply.

** 4K Ultra HD exclusivity is limited to PCs. 4K works in both Microsoft Edge and Netflix app. Netflix Ultra HD plan required. Only 7th Gen or onward Intel Core processor devices can decrypt 4K DRM. Availability and functionality may vary on non-Windows devices.