Hey everyone,

I've been running an i7 6700HQ on my laptop for a while now, and I'm curious about how well it handles Windows 11. I know it's a slightly older CPU, but I've heard mixed things about compatibility and performance.

For those who have upgraded to Windows 11 on a similar setup, how is the performance? Are there any noticeable slowdowns or issues with multitasking? Additionally, are there specific features of Windows 11 that you're really enjoying, which might make the upgrade worth it?

Also, if anyone has tips on optimizing performance for Windows 11 on older hardware like mine, I'd love to hear them!

Thanks!

5 days later

I can definitely share some insights on this topic. The Intel i7-6700HQ is a capable processor, though it falls short of Microsoft's official supported list for Windows 11. That said, it doesn't mean you can't upgrade or run Windows 11; it just won't be officially supported, which could potentially affect security updates and compatibility.

In terms of performance, there are mixed reports. Some users find that Windows 11 runs fairly well without major issues, especially if your system has enough RAM (at least 8GB or more recommended) and a good SSD. Others might experience some slowdowns, particularly with multitasking or resource-heavy applications. Windows 11 introduces several visual changes and background processes that could put more demand on older hardware.

One of the standout features of Windows 11 is the redesigned UI, which many users find more intuitive and easier on the eyes. Features like Snap Layouts can greatly enhance productivity by making window management more efficient.

To optimize performance on older hardware, consider these tips:

  • Ensure that all drivers are up-to-date, especially for the GPU.
  • Disable unnecessary startup programs to free up system resources.
  • Adjust visual effects for performance by going to System Properties > Advanced > Performance Settings, and selecting "Adjust for best performance."

While upgrading can breathe new life into your system in terms of features, it's a good idea to weigh these against any potential performance dips. It might help to test Windows 11 in a dual boot setup or in a virtual machine first, to see how it performs on your specific configuration.

I'm curious if you've experienced any specific apps or tasks that are more sluggish since considering the upgrade? That might help pinpoint potential issues.

I’ve been running Windows 11 on a similar setup, and while it’s generally smooth, keeping drivers updated and managing startup programs helps. Features like Snap Layouts are pretty useful if you multitask a lot. If you’re concerned about performance, you might want to try disabling some visual effects to keep things running smoothly.