Windows 11 Home vs. Pro: What’s the Difference?

Key Points

• Windows 11 Home vs. Pro: Side-by-Side Comparison
• The biggest differences between these versions of Windows are features designed for businesses.
• Exclusive features of Windows 11 Pro include BitLocker Drive Encryption, Microsoft Pureview, and Hyper-V.
• Windows 11 Home can handle up to 128GB of RAM and systems with up to 64 cores, while Windows 11 Pro can support up to 2TB of RAM and systems with dual processors and 128 cores.
• Both versions of Windows 11 have Windows Hello and provide users with several layers of security.

Windows 11 launched in September of 2022, leaving many to choose between Windows 11 Home vs. Pro. It’s a decision Windows users have become accustomed to whenever Microsoft releases a new version of their operating system. If you’re wondering which version you should choose, we will break down the differences between these versions. 

Windows 11 Home vs. Pro: Side-by-Side Comparison

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09/11/2023 08:09 pm GMT

Windows 11 Home vs. Pro: What’s the Difference? 

You may be disappointed if you expect massive differences between the Pro and Home versions of Windows 11. While there are major additions or exclusions, depending on your point of view, there are also a number of similarities. 

The biggest differences between these versions of Windows are features designed for businesses. As the name implies, Windows Home is built for home or casual, everyday usage. Microsoft designed Windows Pro for professionals who need better security, especially businesses. 

Exclusive Features

BitLocker Drive Encryption is included with Windows 11 Pro but not the Home version. This feature lets users encrypt their drives and data through a robust toolset. Are you worried about a laptop leaving the office with sensitive data? BitLocker can lock things down to prevent a potential breach. 

It’s a feature an average user can replicate with various software if required, not something most Windows Home users would take advantage of. The same is true for Microsoft Pureview, which allows organizations to govern sensitive data, whether in the cloud, a server, or a personal PC. 

Hyper-V is another exclusive feature of Windows 11 Pro. This technology allows users to set up and run virtual machines from their PC. The isolated nature of Hyper-V is perfect whether you want to create a virtual infrastructure or test programs in multiple environments on one PC. It also works hand-in-hand with Windows Sandbox and features like Remote Desktop.

While you can use the Remote Desktop feature in Client mode with Windows 11 Home, you’ll only get access to the Sandbox with the Pro version. This program keeps your PC safe by creating a clean version of the operating system in a walled-in environment. A few other exclusive features to note include Kiosk Mode, Assigned Access, and Mobile Device Management. 

Requirements

Another area where these programs differ is system requirements. A PC capable of running Windows 11 Home won’t have a problem using Windows 11 Pro. There is a significant difference in maximum specifications, however.

Windows 11 Home can handle up to 128GB of RAM and systems that have a single processor with up to 64 cores. That’s more than enough power for casual users and folks that use their PCs for business. Students, graphic designers, and other professionals will have plenty of legroom as well. 

Consumers in the business class may require more power, which is where Windows 11 Pro comes in handy. It can support PCs with dual processors and 128 cores. As for the RAM, the maximum is 2TB. That’s a major selling point for anyone using a PC with more than 128GB of memory, and the price difference is minimal. 

Pricing

The final area where the two programs differ is price. Windows 11 Home has a retail price tag of $139 direct from Microsoft, while Windows 11 Pro is $199. That’s just a $60 difference outright, and it’s not uncommon to see the operating systems slightly cheaper through third-party sites. 

Exclusive Features for Businesses and Professionals

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro (USB)

$200.88

• Includes BitLocker Drive Encryption
• Hyper-V technology allows virtual machines from their PC
• Features Kiosk Mode, Assigned Access, and Mobile Device Management
• Supports PCs with dual processors,128 cores, and 2TB RAM

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We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

09/11/2023 08:08 pm GMT

Windows 11 Pro vs. Windows Home: What’s the Same?

While Microsoft designed Windows 11 Pro for the business class, these programs have a lot in common. Outside of the exclusive features and price tag, everything else largely remains the same with the operating system.

Both versions have Windows Hello and provide users with several layers of security out of the box. Common and popular features like Windows Defender AntiVirus, Firewall and Network Protection, and Device Encryption are in both programs. 

Microsoft Windows 11: 5 Must-Know Facts

• Microsoft Edge is the default browser for Windows 11 Home and Pro.
• Both Home and Pro have Windows Defender AntiVirus, Firewall and Network Protection, and Device Encryption.
• The system requirements increased from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
• Microsoft Windows 11 began a phased rollout on October 5, 2021.
• Windows 11 features a redesigned Microsoft Store.

Windows 11 Home vs. Pro: Which One is Better?

For the average user, you can’t go wrong with Windows 11 Home. It has everything you could ask for from an operating system, unless you’re a Mac fan. Windows 11 Pro does have more features, but most of them aren’t useful for anyone outside of the business space. You can pick up either version of the operating system through Microsoft’s official site or on a USB stick from Amazon if you’re a Prime member in a rush. 

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