Both editions have the same look, apps and gaming performance. The difference is in business and security features.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Home | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Start menu, Snap layouts, widgets | ✔ | ✔ |
| Microsoft Defender antivirus | ✔ | ✔ |
| Gaming (DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR) | ✔ | ✔ |
| BitLocker drive encryption | — | ✔ |
| Remote Desktop (host) | — | ✔ |
| Hyper-V virtual machines & Windows Sandbox | — | ✔ |
| Group Policy, domain / Azure AD join | — | ✔ |
| Windows Update for Business | — | ✔ |
Choose Windows 11 Home if…
You use your PC for studies, browsing, streaming, Office work and gaming. Windows 11 Home key →
Choose Windows 11 Pro if…
You work from home, handle confidential files, need Remote Desktop or virtual machines, or your PC is part of an office network. Windows 11 Pro key →
Can I upgrade later?
Yes. Enter a Pro key in Settings → System → Activation → Change product key and Windows upgrades from Home to Pro without reinstalling or losing files. Home to Pro upgrade →
System requirements
Windows 11 needs a compatible 64-bit processor, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, UEFI with Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Microsoft's PC Health Check app tells you if your PC qualifies.