How to Tell if I Have Windows 10 or 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve recently bought a new computer or installed an update and aren’t sure which version of Windows you’re using, you’re not alone. Many users wonder, “Do I have Windows 10 or Windows 11?” — especially since both look quite similar at first glance.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to tell if you have Windows 10 or Windows 11 using several easy methods. You’ll learn how to check your version through Settings, System Information, Command Prompt, and even by visual differences between the two operating systems.

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🧭 Why It’s Important to Know Which Windows You Have

Knowing whether you’re running Windows 10 or Windows 11 helps you:

• ✅ Install compatible drivers and software

• ✅ Follow the correct troubleshooting guides

• ✅ Determine update eligibility

• ✅ Optimize performance for your OS version

Windows 11 introduced a brand-new interface and system requirements — so identifying your version is the first step to managing your PC effectively.

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🪟 Method 1: Check from Windows Settings

This is the easiest and most reliable way.

Steps:

1. Click the Start menu (Windows icon).

2. Select Settings ⚙️ (you can also press Windows + I).

3. Go to System → About.

4. Under the Windows specifications section, you’ll see:

   • Edition (e.g., Windows 10 Home or Windows 11 Pro)

   • Version number

   • OS build

💡 If it says Windows 11, you’re running Microsoft’s latest operating system. Otherwise, it will display Windows 10.

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💻 Method 2: Use the “winver” Command

The classic winver command instantly tells you your Windows version.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.

2. Type winver and press Enter.

3. A small window titled “About Windows” will appear showing:

   • The Windows name (Windows 10 or Windows 11)

   • The version number (e.g., 22H2)

   • The build number

✅ Example Output:

• Windows 10 Version 22H2 (OS Build 19045.4046)

• Windows 11 Version 23H2 (OS Build 22631.3880)

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⚙️ Method 3: Check via System Information

If you want a more technical overview:

1. Press Windows + S and type System Information.

2. Open the System Information app.

3. Look for OS Name and Version on the right-hand panel.

Example:

• OS Name: Microsoft Windows 11 Pro

• OS Version: 10.0.22631 Build 22631

That confirms your exact Windows version and build.

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🧩 Method 4: Identify Windows by Visual Differences

If you can’t access settings or prefer a quick glance, here are visual clues that tell you whether it’s Windows 10 or 11.

If your Start menu icons are centered and windows have rounded corners, you’re using Windows 11.

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🖥️ Method 5: Use Command Prompt or PowerShell

You can also check using a simple command.

In Command Prompt:

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

2. Type:

   systeminfo | findstr /B /C:"OS Name" /C:"OS Version"


3. You’ll see something like:

   OS Name: Microsoft Windows 11 Home
OS Version: 10.0.22631 N/A Build 22631


This confirms your Windows edition and version.

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🧠 Method 6: Using Control Panel

Though it’s an older tool, Control Panel still shows your Windows version.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.

2. Go to System and Security → System.

3. Look under Windows edition to see whether it says Windows 10 or Windows 11.

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🧱 Method 7: Check from the Registry Editor (Advanced)

If you like diving into system details:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion


3. Look for:

   • ProductName → Shows “Windows 10” or “Windows 11”

   • ReleaseId and CurrentBuildNumber → Show build details

⚠️ Be careful not to change anything inside the Registry.

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🔍 How to Interpret Version Numbers

Sometimes Windows lists only version numbers. Here’s how to tell them apart:

If your build number starts with 22*, you’re on Windows 11.

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💡 Bonus Tip: Use “About This PC”

Right-click on This PC → Properties from File Explorer.
This opens the same About page showing your Windows version and build.

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⚡ Quick Summary

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🧾 Conclusion

Now you know exactly how to tell if you have Windows 10 or 11.

The quickest way is to use the Settings app or the winver command, but you can also recognize it visually by the centered Start menu and rounded window corners — clear signs of Windows 11.

Whether you’re updating software, troubleshooting, or just curious, identifying your version ensures compatibility and keeps your PC running smoothly.

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❓ FAQs

1. How can I quickly check if I have Windows 10 or 11?

Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter. The pop-up will tell you the version instantly.

2. Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free?

Yes — if your device meets Windows 11’s hardware requirements (like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot), the upgrade is free.

3. What’s the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 visually?

Windows 11 has centered Start menu icons, rounded corners, and a minimalist interface compared to Windows 10’s traditional layout.

4. Is Windows 10 still supported by Microsoft?

Yes, Microsoft will continue supporting Windows 10 until October 14, 2025 with security updates.

5. Where can I find my Windows edition (Home, Pro, etc.)?

Go to Settings → System → About, and under Windows specifications, you’ll see your Edition (e.g., Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Home).

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🧭 Key Takeaways

• Use the Settings app or winver command for the fastest check.

• Visual cues: centered icons = Windows 11.

• Version numbers 19045 = Windows 10, 22631 = Windows 11.

• Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

• Knowing your OS version helps with updates, drivers, and software compatibility.