If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 or are planning to, you might be wondering what software runs best on the new operating system. Windows 11 brings a fresh look, some cool new features, and a focus on performance, but with all the changes, it’s understandable to question how your favorite programs will work on this shiny new OS.
In this article, we’ll dive into what types of software are most compatible with Windows 11 and what you need to consider before making the jump.
First, let’s talk about the basics. The core apps most people use—browsers, office suites, media players, and the like—are fully supported on Windows 11 preis. If you’re already using something like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Mozilla Firefox, you won’t notice much difference after upgrading. These browsers are optimized for Windows 11, meaning you’ll still get all the speed and features you rely on.
When it comes to office suites, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) has been working flawlessly on Windows 11. If you’re an Office 365 subscriber, you’re likely already enjoying the perks of cloud syncing and other features that Windows 11 fully supports. Plus, the new OS offers enhanced support for touchscreens, so if you’re using a 2-in-1 device or tablet, you’ll get a great experience.
For media players like VLC or Spotify, there’s good news as well. Both have been optimized for Windows 11, so you won’t face any playback or installation issues. In fact, with the sleek new design of Windows 11, apps like these look even better, taking full advantage of the updated UI.
Creative Software
If you’re into graphic design, video editing, or any kind of creative work, you’ll be pleased to know that Windows 11 works well with popular software like Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk products, and more.
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and After Effects are all running great on Windows 11. The new OS doesn’t just handle these programs; it actually improves performance by offering support for DirectStorage, which speeds up load times and enhances the overall experience, especially for those working with large files or video rendering.
Similarly, Autodesk AutoCAD and Revit perform smoothly on Windows 11, which is great news for architects, engineers, and designers. If you rely on CAD software for your work, you can expect faster performance and improved stability with Windows 11’s updated drivers and support for modern hardware.
Gaming Software
Windows 11 is a huge win for gamers. If gaming is a big part of your software needs, the new OS offers several new features that make it a much better platform for playing the latest titles.
For starters, Windows 11 includes Auto HDR and DirectStorage, which are game-changers for anyone who loves high-quality graphics and faster load times. Auto HDR enhances the color and contrast of games that weren’t previously designed for HDR displays, while DirectStorage reduces load times by allowing games to load assets directly from the SSD, cutting down the need for CPU intervention.
If you’re using Xbox Game Pass or Steam, you’ll find that these services work just as they did on Windows 10, but with the added benefits of the performance upgrades Windows 11 brings. Plus, Windows 11 integrates nicely with the Xbox app, making it easy to download, manage, and play your games.
Business and Productivity Tools
For those using business software, like project management tools, accounting software, or enterprise applications, Windows 11 doesn’t disappoint. Programs like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Trello all work well on the new OS. The improved multitasking features of Windows 11, such as Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, are particularly handy for productivity apps, making it easier to work across multiple windows at once.
Accounting software like QuickBooks, TurboTax, and Xero should also run without any hiccups. However, if you’re using older legacy software that isn’t regularly updated, it’s worth checking compatibility before you upgrade. Some older programs may need updates or patches to run smoothly on Windows 11, especially if they rely on older frameworks or drivers.
Software to Be Cautious About
While most popular software runs smoothly on Windows 11, there are some programs and older versions of apps that might not perform as well. For example, legacy applications that were designed for Windows 7 or Windows 8 may encounter issues. If you rely on older business-specific software, it’s a good idea to check with the software provider for any compatibility patches or recommendations before upgrading to Windows 11.
Additionally, some antivirus software may take a little longer to fully integrate with Windows 11’s security features. Most major antivirus vendors, like Norton, McAfee, and Bitdefender, have updated their products for Windows 11, but if you’re using a less common solution, make sure it’s compatible.
Is It Worth Upgrading?
If you’re using up-to-date software for your daily tasks—whether it’s browsing the web, working on documents, creating content, or gaming—Windows 11 will likely be a smooth upgrade. The new OS is optimized for modern hardware and delivers improvements in security, performance, and user experience.
However, if your software setup involves older applications or you’re using niche software that isn’t updated frequently, it might be worth waiting a bit longer before making the switch. You can always test your software in a virtual machine or on a separate device before committing to the full upgrade.