How to tell if Windows 10 Home or Pro is right for you

You’re interested in upgrading or making the switch to Windows 10, but you’re not sure which edition is right for you. Like previous versions of Windows, there are a handful of options to choose from. Most have the same core features, plus some extras for specific types of users. Here’s a breakdown of each edition and what it has to offer to help you decide which PC edition of Windows 10 is best for you.

Do you need a 64-bit version or a 32-bit version of Windows 10?

Before choosing an edition of Windows that suits your needs, you must determine what bit version is right for your PC’s hardware. The primary determinant there is the processor. Microsoft offers the option of 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10 — 32-bit is for older processors, while 64-bit is for newer ones.

Essentially, if your computer was made after 2007 it more than likely has a 64-bit processor in it. The 64-bit architecture allows the processor to run faster and more efficiently, and it can handle more RAM and thus do more things at once.

While a 64-bit processor can easily run 32-bit software, including the Windows 10 OS, you’ll be better off getting a version of Windows that matches your hardware.

How to check if your PC can run a 64-bit version of Windows

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Click System.

Verify the System type line. It will tell you which OS you’re currently using, and what type of processor (64-bit or 32-bit) you’re using.

If it says that you have an x86-based processor your computer has a 32-bit processor.

If it says that you have an x64-based processor your computer has a 64-bit processor.

Windows 10 core features

These core features really make Windows 10 what it is and can generally be found in most versions of Windows (although some regions prohibit certain features).

Cortana is Microsoft’s version of a digital assistant. It will set reminders, give information, and help you write text messages and emails — it also knows a joke or two.

Windows Hello is a biometric security system that uses facial recognition or a fingerprint scan to log you into Windows 10 and authenticate Store purchases. Some apps have also begun including Windows Hello integration, a step in the secure direction.

Virtual Desktop allows you to create multiple desktops that you can switch between with the click of a button. You can move windows between desktops and easily keep track of multiple ongoing projects.

Windows Ink has a growing number of compatible apps that let you edit, annotate, and doodle with a digital pen. It’s incredibly easy to take notes, and you can even create works of art.

Edge is Microsoft’s signature web browser and its Internet Explorer replacement. It’s designed for the modern internet user. With an e-reader function, new extensions, and constant updates coming all the time, there’s no telling how far Edge can go.

Windows Defender is software that protects your computer from viruses and malware. It runs full-time and will let you know if anything suspicious is happening or if it thinks you’re about to do something unsafe. It also receives constant updates to ensure it’s protecting as well as possible.

Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) is Microsoft’s step into VR. Windows 10 includes the software needed to get started, though the hardware from various third-party manufacturers is sold separately. For more information, be sure to have a look at our Windows Mixed Reality ultimate guide.

Windows 10 Home

Windows 10 Home edition is perfect for anyone who wants that familiar, streamlined Windows experience everyone loves. Users who are not super concerned about the security of business data and who don’t have a ton of devices to manage will not feel there’s anything missing from Windows 10 Home.

For the gamers out there, Windows 10 Home allows you to sync Xbox Live accounts, giving you full access from your PC. If you own an Xbox One, you’ll even be able to stream and play games on any PC on your local network. There’s also a Game Mode that increases performance while gaming and a broadcast feature that lets you stream straight from your PC to Mixer without any third-party software.

Included in the Home edition are familiar productivity apps such as Calendar, Mail, Maps, Movies & TV, and Photos. Windows 10 Home is a one-time purchase that currently costs about $120.

Bottom line: Windows 10 Home edition has everything a standard PC user wants and will deliver a familiar Windows experience.

Windows 10 Pro

If you’re running a small business and feel you need an assistant, why not hire Windows 10 Pro? You’re getting the same core features, same gaming perks, and same productivity apps as Windows 10 Home, plus a bunch of extras that professionals love, including Microsoft Hyper-V.

Perhaps most notable is Windows Update for Business, Microsoft’s free service that’s available also for Windows 10 Enterprise users. Within are a bunch of added security tools perfect for professionals, including multi-layer protection — device, identity, application and information — and a rigorous update program that prevents devices from falling behind on proper security.

Apps like Device Guard and Secure Boot, both exclusive to Windows 10 Pro, ensure that your devices aren’t hijacked by malware and other malicious software no matter the user, and they provide some valuable added security for lone users. There is also the addition of BitLocker, a useful encryption tool that lets you put a lockdown on all your drives.

Speaking of devices, Windows 10 Pro is ideal for businesses that use Choose Your Own Device (CYOD), a program that allows employees to choose from a list of varying devices — smartphones, tablets, and PCs — that have been pre-approved by the company.

Windows 10 Pro is a one-time purchase currently for about $200.

Bottom line: Windows 10 Pro is geared toward small businesses and PC devotees, but standard users can also use it without bothering with the added features.

Windows 10 Enterprise

Windows 10 Enterprise is an upgrade from Windows 10 Pro that features Microsoft’s Windows Update for Business, plus access to Long Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) updates. LTSB allows organizations to update Windows 10 security measures without changing the function of Windows 10. This is ideal for situations where teaching a large group of employees how to use a new tool isn’t feasible.

There are two versions of Windows 10 Enterprise available for purchase: E3 and E5. Enterprise E3 comes with the features mentioned above, as well as the Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack, which allows employers to virtually manage employees’ PCs. Enterprise E5 has everything Enterprise E3 has, plus access to a beefed up version of Windows Defender known as Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection.

Businesses interested in Windows 10 Enterprise must first purchase Windows 10 Pro, then pay a licensing fee to upgrade to Enterprise. For this reason, Enterprise is designed for medium and large businesses only, and pricing is based on volume.

Bottom line: Windows 10 Enterprise edition is designed specifically for medium to large businesses and organizations — its volume licensing and security features are not designed for lone users.

Windows 10 Education

Windows 10 Education builds on the security and update foundation found in Windows 10 Enterprise, but it focuses explicitly on providing tools for students, teachers, and administrators. One notable difference from Windows 10 Enterprise is the lack of ability to join Microsoft’s LTSB, the security-over-function update method.

Windows 10 Education is available only through academic licensing, and pricing is again based on volume. Where Enterprise was an upgrade from Windows 10 Pro, Education can also be an upgrade from Windows 10 Home.

Bottom line: Windows 10 Education edition is geared toward academic institutions. Volume licensing and the focus on education apps and utilities are not for lone users.

Windows 10 S

Rather than classifying as a full edition of Windows 10, «S» is a mode that runs on either Home or Pro versions of the OS. It’s designed to optimize security and performance, and it runs only apps that are downloaded from the Microsoft Store and browses the internet through Edge. Anyone with Home or Pro editions can make the upgrade at any time, but it’s not a forced update. You can also switch out of S mode at any time, reverting back to Home or Pro, though you can’t switch back once you’ve gone one way.

There are likewise S versions for Enterprise and Education editions, which operate mostly the same as their standard siblings, though with the same streamlined experience. When buying a new laptop or PC, be sure to check with the manufacturer to determine what version of Windows 10 you’re getting!

Bottom line: Windows 10 S is now a mode that can be enabled on Home or Pro (including Enterprise and Education) to deliver a more streamlined experience.

Wild card: Windows 10 IoT Core

Are you someone who loves to tinker with electronics? Maybe you’re in the business of building consumer ease-of-use gadgets. Whatever your niche, Windows 10 IoT Core (IoT stands for Internet of Things) is a customizable Windows platform that can be applied to many different scenarios.

Want to program a robot you created from scratch? Use Windows 10 IoT Core. Want to retrofit your old radio with internet access? Windows 10 IoT Core. The possibilities are nearly endless when you combine Arduino’s open-source community and development boards such as Arrow DragonBoard 410c and Raspberry Pi 3.

Windows 10 IoT Core is free for all users and can be downloaded from Microsoft’s website now<.nofollow>.

Bottom line: Windows 10 IoT Core is for advanced users and inventors — or anyone who just wants to mess around with a neat tool.

See at Microsoft Store

More resources

Updated May 3, 2018: I refreshed this list with information about Windows 10 S (and a bunch of other small stuff!) to ensure you’re still getting an accurate comparison of Windows 10 editions.

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Find the right fit for your needs. Check out our list of product offerings to see which Windows 10 version checks all of your boxes.

Windows Security

Windows 10 changes the game for security by protecting user identities, devices and information with a comprehensive solution driven by intelligence that only Microsoft offers.

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Using facial recognition, a fingerprint, or PIN, Windows Hello is a fast, secure and password-free way to unlock your compatible Windows devices.

Device encryption is available on a wide range of Windows devices and helps protect your data by encrypting it. If you turn on device encryption, only authorised individuals will be able to access your device and data.

Your Windows device comes with comprehensive, built-in security features, including firewall and internet protections to help safeguard against viruses, malware and ransomware.

App & browser control in Windows Security provides the settings for Windows Defender SmartScreen, which helps protect your device from potentially dangerous apps, files, websites and downloads.

Manage screen time, limit access to mature content, control online purchases when you connect your family’s Microsoft accounts, and check to make sure the family’s devices are secure and up to date.

Secure Boot helps prevent malicious software applications and unauthorised operating systems from loading during the system start-up process.

If your device is lost or stolen, BitLocker and BitLocker To Go put everything on lockdown, so no one else can access your systems or data.

WIP helps to protect against potential data leakage without otherwise interfering with the employee experience. WIP also helps to protect enterprise apps and data against accidental data leaks on enterprise-owned devices and personal devices that employees bring to work, without requiring changes to your environment or other apps.

Windows Defender Antivirus uses the power of the cloud, wide optics, machine learning and behaviour analysis to protect your devices from emerging, sophisticated threats.

Windows Fundamentals

Windows 10 comes with automatic updates enabled, which means you get all the latest features at no extra cost. +

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Windows Fundamentals

Take notes, navigate, draw, doodle, edit and create. Improve what you do with a digital pen. 6

Get faster browsing 7 8 and better battery life 8 9 across your devices with Microsoft Edge, the browser built for Windows 10.

All you have to do is ask Cortana. Your digital assistant on PCs and mobile devices can schedule a meeting, tell you when it’s time to leave for an appointment, or check the weather, news and traffic.

Extend battery life by limiting background activity and push notifications.

Get instant access to your Android phone’s texts and photos on your PC, 11 or connect your iPhone for seamless browsing, calendar and app experiences. 12

Free up time and your hands by talking to your computer. Get information and reminders or listen to music and manage your emails and calendar. 13

Business Management and Deployment

Built-in security, productivity and management features save you time, money and hassle.

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Feature	Windows 10 Home	Windows 10 Pro

Business–Management and Deployment

Windows 10 mobile device management (MDM) provides an alternative to traditional PC management processes: you can transition to cloud based management at your own pace.

Manage PCs, user accounts and groups, and get easy access to files and printers when you pair Windows 10 Pro with Windows Server. ** You can even define specific security and networking policies for your users and devices.

Available to any organisation with an Azure AD Premium or Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) licence, Enterprise State Roaming provides users with a unified experience across their Windows devices and reduces the time needed for configuring a new device.

Your one place to find, manage and distribute apps to Windows 10 devices in volume.

With Assigned Access, Windows 10 Pro devices run different applications depending on the user and keep individual identities separate and secured.

With Dynamic Provisioning you can take a new PC out of the box, turn it on, and transform it into a productive organisation device, with minimal time and effort.

Windows Update for Business can help businesses reduce management costs, provide control over update deployments, enable more efficient delivery of updates, and provide access to the latest innovations from Microsoft.

Configure a device in kiosk mode in a very simple way. You can do this locally on the device or remotely using Mobile Device Management.

Domain Join + Group Policy: IT staff can easily manage PCs, user accounts and groups, security policies, and get easy access to files and printers when you pair Windows 10 Pro with Windows Server. ** You can even define specific security and networking policies for your users and devices.

Employees can use a single login across Windows 10, Microsoft 365, *** and other Microsoft services, making log-ons and passwords easier to manage. The shared log-on works on PCs, tablets and phones with minimal IT involvement.

Go ahead, get creative

Edit photos and spice up presentations. Windows 10 has the apps you need to get in touch with your creative side.

Microsoft Office

Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more—get everything you need to create and present your ideas with an Microsoft 365 subscription. ***

Digital pen and touch

Scribble down a headline, draw a chart, add bullet points—design an entire presentation with a digital pen. And on new Windows 10 touchscreen computers, you can zoom, scroll and sign documents with the touch of a finger.

Photos

The new Photos app makes it fun and easy to enhance your digital memories. If you liked making videos with Windows Movie Maker, you’ll love what you can do with Photos.

Digital pen and touch

Scribble down a headline, draw a chart, add bullet points—design an entire presentation with a digital pen. And on new Windows 10 touchscreen computers, you can zoom, scroll and sign documents with the touch of a finger.

Photos

The new Photos app makes it fun and easy to enhance your digital memories. If you liked making videos with Windows Movie Maker, you’ll love what you can do with Photos.

Microsoft Office

Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more—get everything you need to create and present your ideas with an Microsoft 365 subscription. ***

Photos

The new Photos app makes it fun and easy to enhance your digital memories. If you liked making videos with Windows Movie Maker, you’ll love what you can do with Photos.

Microsoft Office

Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more—get everything you need to create and present your ideas with an Microsoft 365 subscription. ***

Digital pen and touch

Scribble down a headline, draw a chart, add bullet points—design an entire presentation with a digital pen. And on new Windows 10 touchscreen computers, you can zoom, scroll and sign documents with the touch of a finger.

Quickly capture your thoughts, tasks and reminders

Use Sticky Notes and type, ink or add a picture to save ideas, thoughts, lists, appointments and more—so you don’t miss a thing!

More efficiencies, less energy

Windows 10 has apps and features to help you have fun and get more done with less hassle.

Timeline

Scroll through time to find documents and websites. 17

Voice, pen and touch

Interact with your Windows 10 computer in new ways.

Windows Hello

Log into your Windows devices three times faster by using your face or fingerprint. *

Gaming

Windows 10 is built for the games you love.

Is your computer ready for Windows 10?

Windows 10 features are best experienced on a modern PC. Find out if your current PC is ready for Windows 10 by answering just a few questions.

Get Windows 10

Speed, security, durability and great design—you really can have it all.

Get a new Windows 10 device

Get the Windows 10 OS

1 To use Windows Hello with biometrics specialised hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors is required. Hardware-based protection of the Windows Hello credential/keys requires TPM 1.2 or greater. If there is no existing or configured TPM, credentials/keys protection will be software-based.

2 Requires modern hardware (InstantGo/AOAC/HSTI-compliant). Review this doc for more details on Device Encryption.

3 Requires TPM 1.2 or greater for TPM based key protection.

4 Windows Information Protection requires either Mobile Device Management (MDM) or System Centre Configuration Manager to manage settings in Windows 10 Pro. Active Directory makes management easier but is not required.

5 Windows Information Protection supports Mobile Application Management (MAM) for use in Home edition only.

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

7 Performance claims based on Jetstream 1.1 tests using Microsoft Edge 18 vs. Chrome 69 and Firefox 62. Go here for more details on this performance claim.

8 Availability and functionality may vary on non-Windows devices.

9 Based on average times; battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors. Go here for more details on this battery life claim.

10 Cortana available in selected markets; experience may vary by region and device.

11 Users must link their Android phone to their Windows PC in PC settings. Users will receive an app from Microsoft which they must download to their Android phone and follow the set-up prompts, including being signed into same Microsoft Account across mobile apps and Windows 10 PC.

12 Users must link their iPhone to their PC in PC settings. Users will receive an app from Microsoft which they must download to their iPhone and follow the set-up prompts.

13 Hardware dependent. Available on limited selected devices supporting far-field capabilities. Connect email accounts in the Cortana Notebook; works with Outlook.com, Microsoft 365 and Gmail. Microsoft 365 requires a subscription.

14 Not all MDM capabilities are available in the Home SKU. MDM requires an MDM product such as Microsoft Intune or other 3rd-party solutions (sold separately).

15 Separate subscription for Azure Active Directory Premium required.

16 Available in selected markets. Functionality and apps may vary by market and device.

17 Timeline shows 3-5 days of past activities, including activities done on a tablet and mobile phone when users are signed into their Microsoft accounts. To see up to 30 days of activities, users must choose this option in settings. Available in selected markets. Functionality may vary by device.

* Based on average time comparison between typing a password and detecting a face or fingerprint in order to successfully authenticate. Requires specialised hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.

+ Additional requirements may apply for ongoing updates.

*** Microsoft 365 subscription sold separately.

Feature	Windows 10 Home	Windows 10 Pro