Windows 10's Steam Dominance Grows as Windows 11 Slips
Despite Microsoft's push for Windows 11, it seems PC gamers are sticking with Windows 10. Valve's latest Steam Hardware & Software Survey for July 2024 reveals that Windows 10 has further solidified its lead among Steam users, while Windows 11 has experienced another decline.
The Numbers Tell the Story:
- Windows 10: Now commands a 64.63% share of Steam users, up 0.74% from June.
- Windows 11: Dipped to 45.81%, reflecting a 0.82% decrease.
This trend aligns with broader market data from StatCounter, which shows Windows 10 holding a significantly larger share (64.63%) compared to Windows 11's 30.88%.
Why the Hesitation Toward Windows 11?
Several factors could be contributing to Windows 11's slower adoption among gamers:
- Hardware Requirements: Windows 11's more stringent system requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, have been a source of frustration for some users.
- Familiarity and Stability: Many users are comfortable with Windows 10's interface and stability, making them hesitant to switch.
- Gaming Performance: While initial concerns about performance differences were largely overblown, some users may still be waiting for further optimization and driver maturity on Windows 11.
Other Interesting Insights from the Survey:
- Windows Still Reigns Supreme: The vast majority of Steam users (96.55%) are on some version of Windows.
- Legacy OS Holdouts: A small but persistent 0.49% of users are still gaming on Windows 7 and 8/8.1, despite the lack of official support.
- Linux Gaming on the Rise: Linux usage on Steam remains relatively niche at 2.08%, but it's growing, with Arch Linux leading the way.
The Takeaway:
While Windows 11 offers a modern design and features, it's clear that many PC gamers are in no rush to upgrade. Windows 10's familiarity, proven stability, and widespread compatibility make it a tough act to follow.
