Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
To move from Windows 10 to Windows 11 while keeping your files and installed apps, use the in-place upgrade and confirm that Windows Setup is set to Keep personal files and apps. First check that your PC is eligible, back up important files, and—when possible—wait for Windows Update to offer the upgrade for your device.
Before you upgrade: check eligibility and compatibility
Windows 11 eligibility is specific to your PC. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update in Windows 10 and check for updates, or use Microsoft’s PC Health Check app to see whether the device meets the requirements and, if not, why. Microsoft’s Windows 11 eligibility guidance also explains the checks. Some Windows 11 features require hardware beyond the minimum requirements.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If Windows Update has not offered Windows 11, it is generally better to wait than to force the installation with the Installation Assistant. Microsoft may temporarily delay an offer when a known compatibility issue could disrupt the device. This safeguard hold is a reason to check again later, not a reason to bypass the compatibility warning. See Microsoft’s Windows 11 installation options.
Most software and accessories that worked with Windows 10 are expected to work with Windows 11, but that is not a guarantee for every app, driver, peripheral, or feature. For essential programs or hardware, check with the software publisher or device manufacturer before upgrading. Microsoft also notes that some Windows 10 features are unavailable in Windows 11; its Windows 11 upgrade FAQ covers compatibility and feature questions.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Back up files before starting
An in-place upgrade is designed to transfer your files and data, but a backup protects you if the process is interrupted or something goes wrong. Microsoft says, “Microsoft always recommends backing up files before installing a new Windows version.” You can use OneDrive as a file backup option, as described in Microsoft’s Windows 11 upgrade preparation guidance, or make a separate copy of important files on another storage device.
- Check that important documents, photos, and other personal files have a backup you can access.
- Make sure you can sign in to any account or service needed to restore backed-up files.
- If you want recovery media, Microsoft’s Windows recovery options explain how to create a USB recovery drive. It is optional preparation, not a requirement for the ordinary upgrade, and it does not preserve installed apps.
Upgrade with the option that keeps files and apps
Use the upgrade offered through Windows Update when available. If you start Windows Setup another way, make sure you run it from within Windows rather than booting the PC from installation media for a fresh installation. During Setup, review the keep choice before you continue. Microsoft’s installation instructions describe these options:
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
| Setup choice or method | Personal files | Installed apps | Windows settings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep personal files and apps | Kept | Kept | Kept |
| Keep personal files only | Kept | Removed | Removed |
| Nothing | Removed | Removed | Removed |
| Fresh installation by booting from installation media | Existing contents are wiped | Existing contents are wiped | Existing Windows installation is wiped |
- Start the Windows 11 upgrade from Windows Update, or launch Setup from within Windows if using another installation method.
- When Setup shows what to keep, select Keep personal files and apps. Do not proceed if the displayed choice is different and retaining apps matters to you.
- Review the selection and follow Setup’s prompts. Keep the PC connected to power and allow the installation to finish; the time varies with factors including internet speed, and Microsoft says it usually takes longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update.
Do not boot from a USB installation drive for a fresh install when your goal is to preserve the existing installation. Microsoft warns that this route wipes the existing Windows installation, files, and apps. If you need to use installation media, start Setup while signed in to Windows and verify the keep option it presents.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →After the upgrade: check the result
Once Windows 11 starts, sign in and check that your important files and frequently used apps are present. Open the apps and connect essential accessories to confirm that they work as expected. If a particular program or device does not work, check for Windows 11-compatible updates or guidance from its publisher or manufacturer; compatibility is not guaranteed for every product.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
If you need to return to Windows 10
Microsoft says the built-in option to go back to Windows 10 while keeping migrated files and data is available for 10 days after upgrading. After that period, returning requires manually backing up files and performing a clean installation. Microsoft’s upgrade FAQ explains the rollback period and consequences.
That rollback does not restore a supported Windows 10 environment: Microsoft ended Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. Consider that before treating a return to Windows 10 as a long-term solution.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
