What Microsoft’s End of Support for Windows 10 in 2025 Means for the Used Computer Market

In 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10, marking the beginning of a new era for users and businesses still relying on the operating system. While this transition may seem like just another update, it will have significant ramifications, particularly for the used computer market. As consumers and businesses look to upgrade, the end of Windows 10 support will drive demand for newer systems that can continue to receive regular security updates and run the latest software. In this blog, we’ll dive into what this means for the used computer market, specifically what Intel processors will still be supported by Windows 11, and which ones will be left behind. 

Why Microsoft Is Ending Support for Windows 10 

Windows 10, released in 2015, has been one of Microsoft’s most popular operating systems, offering stability, compatibility, and a familiar interface. However, like all software, it eventually reaches an end of life. The official support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, which means no more security patches, updates, or technical support from Microsoft. 

For users who rely on Windows 10, this is a significant shift. The end of support makes systems vulnerable to security breaches and compatibility issues with newer applications. Microsoft has already pushed Windows 11 as the next step for the modern PC, with improved performance, security, and features. This push toward newer technology is one of the primary reasons Windows 10 will no longer receive updates. 

Impact on the Used Computer Market 

When Windows 10 reaches its end of support, many users will face a choice: upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase a new computer altogether. This shift is expected to dramatically influence the used computer market in several ways: 

1. Increased Demand for Newer Systems: Consumers and businesses that currently use Windows 10 will need to upgrade their hardware to ensure continued compatibility with Windows 11. As a result, the demand for newer used computers, particularly those equipped with Windows 11 compatible hardware, will rise. Devices running older Intel processors may no longer be a viable option for these users, driving up interest in more recent machines. 

2. Price Increase for Certain Used Systems: With fewer systems capable of running Windows 11, the prices of used computers equipped with the required hardware will likely increase. Those looking for affordable, used systems will need to adjust their expectations, as older systems with unsupported processors will lose value. 

3. Extended Life for Older Systems: While many older systems will lose their appeal due to the end of support for Windows 10, some users, especially those with budget constraints, may opt to continue using older systems without security updates. However, this is a risky decision as it could leave them vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. 

4. A Rise in Refurbished Devices: Manufacturers and resellers will likely focus on refurbishing older devices with compatible components to meet the increasing demand for more affordable used systems. Windows 11 will be pre-installed on these systems, extending their lifespan in the used market. 

Intel Processors: Which Ones Will Be Supported by Windows 11? 

To run Windows 11, users need to meet specific hardware requirements set by Microsoft, especially in terms of CPU support. Windows 11 requires at least an 8th generation Intel processor or later. Unfortunately, this means many older Intel CPUs used in systems that were originally designed for Windows 10 will no longer be compatible with the new OS. 

Intel Processors That Will Be Supported by Windows 11: 

1. 8th Gen Intel Core Series (Coffee Lake): Released in 2017, these processors were the first to include support for Windows 11. These will continue to be supported and are widely available in the used computer market. 

2. 9th Gen Intel Core Series (Coffee Lake Refresh): These processors were launched in 2018 and are also compatible with Windows 11. 

3. 10th Gen Intel Core Series (Comet Lake): Released in 2019, the 10th Gen CPUs offer better performance than their predecessors and will continue to be supported. 

4. 11th Gen Intel Core Series (Rocket Lake): These processors, released in 2021, will have no problem running Windows 11 and are expected to remain supported for several years. 

5. 12th Gen Intel Core Series (Alder Lake) and Later: With their hybrid architecture, these processors are well-suited for modern computing and will continue to be supported for future versions of Windows. 

Intel Processors That Will No Longer Be Supported by Windows 11: 

1. 6th Gen Intel Core Series (Skylake): Released in 2015, these processors will not support Windows 11, meaning any computer with a 6th Gen CPU will not be able to upgrade to the new OS. 

2. 7th Gen Intel Core Series (Kaby Lake): Released in 2016, these processors will also be excluded from Windows 11 support, leaving users with these CPUs either stuck on Windows 10 or needing to upgrade their hardware. 

3. Earlier Intel Processors (Pre-6th Gen): Any Intel processor released before the 6th Gen (such as 4th Gen Haswell and earlier) will not support Windows 11. These systems will be left behind entirely. 

What Does This Mean for Consumers and the Used Computer Market? 

The end of support for Windows 10 combined with the shift in processor compatibility means that the used computer market will experience a significant shift in value. Older systems with 6th Gen and 7th Gen Intel processors will see a decrease in demand as buyers will be increasingly unwilling to purchase devices that are locked into an unsupported operating system. On the other hand, systems with 8th Gen or newer processors will see increased demand as they can run Windows 11 and will be more future proof. 

Businesses and individuals looking for used systems will likely be seeking refurbished devices with newer Intel processors (8th Gen or later). This creates an opportunity for businesses specializing in refurbished computers to thrive, especially as the demand for affordable but modern machines grows. 

Conclusion 

As Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 in 2025, the used computer market is poised for significant changes. Buyers will flock to newer systems that are capable of running Windows 11, while older systems with unsupported Intel processors may become obsolete in terms of the operating system upgrade. For those looking to buy used computers, it’s important to focus on systems equipped with 8th Gen Intel processors or newer to ensure compatibility with the latest version of Windows and extended support into the future. 

Whether you’re in the market for a used computer or selling your old system, understanding these shifts in technology will help you make informed decisions. The next few years will likely see a boom in refurbished devices, making it a prime time for businesses and individuals to upgrade their PCs.