Windows 10 Still Runs on 30% of PCs, HP Executive Reveals

Despite Microsoft’s continued push toward Windows 11, Windows 10 remains installed on roughly 30% of all Windows PCs, according to Karen L. Parkhill, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at HP.

The figure is one of the clearest industry estimates yet of Windows 10’s remaining market presence and helps explain Microsoft’s recent decision to extend support options for the aging operating system.

HP Provides Rare Insight Into Windows 10 Adoption

Speaking during an investor discussion, Parkhill revealed that approximately 30% of the installed Windows PC base is still running Windows 10.

Unlike estimates from third-party analytics firms or voluntary user surveys, the figure comes directly from one of the world’s largest PC manufacturers, making it one of the most credible indicators of Windows 10’s current market share.

According to Parkhill:

“We have roughly 30 percent of the installed base still on Windows 10.”

Strong Windows 10 Usage Despite Microsoft’s Push

The continued popularity of Windows 10 is notable given that Microsoft has spent several years encouraging users to migrate to Windows 11.

Even though Windows 10 is no longer receiving major feature development, a significant portion of users have yet to upgrade, reflecting the operating system’s enduring popularity among consumers and businesses alike.

The sizable installed base may also help explain Microsoft’s recent decision to extend access to its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program through October 12, 2027, providing additional time for organizations and individuals that are not yet ready to transition.

Windows 11 Upgrade Cycle Continues

While Windows 10 maintains a substantial user base, HP says the transition to Windows 11 is still driving new PC sales.

Parkhill noted that Windows 11 refresh activity has strengthened across Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and the Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ) regions, bringing upgrade demand in those markets in line with North America.

According to HP, the continued Windows 11 refresh cycle has contributed to solid sales growth in both regions.

More Reliable Than Third-Party Estimates

Microsoft does not publish official market share figures for individual Windows versions.

As a result, most publicly available estimates come from sources such as Statcounter or Steam’s Hardware Survey. While useful, those figures rely on web traffic measurements or voluntary participation and may not fully represent the broader Windows ecosystem.

HP’s estimate offers a rare glimpse into Windows adoption based on insights from a major PC manufacturer, making the reported 30% Windows 10 installed base one of the strongest indicators yet of how many users have yet to make the move to Windows 11.