Not everyone loves Windows 11. Some users find the new interface confusing, some apps don’t run smoothly, and others simply prefer the familiar look and feel of Windows 10. The good news is—you can remove Windows 11 and reinstall Windows 10 if you want.
In this guide, I’ll walk you step by step through different methods so you can safely downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.
Why Go Back to Windows 10?
Here are some common reasons people downgrade:
- Compatibility issues – Certain apps, drivers, or older hardware work better on Windows 10.
- Familiar interface – Windows 10 looks and feels more like what users are used to.
- Performance concerns – On older devices, Windows 10 can run faster.
- Personal preference – Some just prefer Windows 10’s design and features.
👉 Remember: Windows 10 will continue receiving security updates from Microsoft until October 14, 2025.
Method 1: Roll Back to Windows 10 (Within 10 Days of Upgrade)
If you upgraded to Windows 11 less than 10 days ago, you’re in luck! Windows keeps your old Windows 10 files so you can roll back easily.
Steps
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Recovery.
- Under Recovery options, find Go back.
- Click Go back and follow the prompts.
- Choose a reason (e.g., “Windows 10 worked better”) and continue.
Windows will restart and restore your previous Windows 10 installation.
⚠️ After 10 days, this option disappears because the system deletes old files to free up space.
Method 2: Clean Install Windows 10 Using a Bootable USB
If more than 10 days have passed—or you did a fresh Windows 11 install—you’ll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
What You’ll Need
- A USB flash drive (at least 8 GB).
- A PC with internet access.
- The Windows 10 installation media tool.
Steps
- Back up your files
- Copy important documents, photos, and apps to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Create Windows 10 installation media
- Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official site.
- Run it and select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file).
- Insert your USB drive and let the tool create a bootable installer.
- Boot from the USB drive
- Restart your PC and press the BIOS/boot menu key (usually F2, F12, Esc, or Del).
- Choose your USB drive as the boot device.
- Install Windows 10
- Follow on-screen prompts.
- When asked, choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
- Delete the Windows 11 partitions and install Windows 10 on the main partition.
- Set up Windows 10
- Enter your license key (if prompted).
- Complete setup and reinstall your apps.
Method 3: Downgrade Using a System Image Backup
If you created a system image backup of Windows 10 before upgrading, you can restore it.
Steps
- Connect the drive containing your backup.
- Boot into Advanced Startup by pressing Shift + Restart.
- Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery.
- Select your backup and follow the prompts.
This restores your PC exactly how it was when you created the backup.
Things to Do Before Downgrading
- Check your license – Most Windows 11 devices have a digital license that works for Windows 10 as well.
- Backup data – Reinstallation wipes your drive clean, so save your files first.
- Find drivers – Visit your PC manufacturer’s website and download Windows 10 drivers for your model.
- Note installed apps – Make a list of apps you need to reinstall.
Potential Downsides of Downgrading
- Reinstalling Windows 10 may take time.
- Some newer features exclusive to Windows 11 will be gone.
- If your PC was shipped with Windows 11 only, driver support for Windows 10 might be limited.
Tips After Reinstalling Windows 10
- Run Windows Update to get the latest patches.
- Reinstall drivers (graphics, Wi-Fi, sound, etc.).
- Turn on System Restore so you can recover easily next time.
- Avoid accidental upgrades by pausing or blocking Windows 11 updates in settings.
Conclusion
Switching back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is totally possible, whether you just upgraded and want to roll back, or you’re ready for a full clean install. If you’re still within 10 days, the rollback option is the fastest. Otherwise, a clean installation via USB is your best bet.
At the end of the day, the choice is yours—Windows 11 might be the future, but Windows 10 still has a lot of life left in it.
FAQs
1. Can I downgrade to Windows 10 without losing data?
Yes, if you’re within 10 days of upgrade, you can roll back without losing files. A clean install, however, erases everything.
2. Do I need to buy a new license for Windows 10?
No, your existing Windows 11 license should work for Windows 10 on the same device.
3. How do I stop Windows 11 from reinstalling automatically?
You can pause or block feature updates in Windows Update settings.
4. Can I reinstall Windows 11 later if I change my mind?
Yes, you can upgrade back anytime using Microsoft’s upgrade tool or installation media.
5. Will my files be restored if I do a clean install?
No, you must back them up before installing, otherwise they’ll be erased.