Windows 11 compatible processors

Windows 11 has captured attention with its sleek design, enhanced performance, and new productivity features. However, its system requirements are stricter than previous versions, with a primary focus on CPU compatibility. This has left many users wondering whether their existing hardware supports the upgrade

“Windows 11 supports Intel 8th Gen, AMD Ryzen 2000, and newer CPUs with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Check Microsoft’s compatibility list for details.”

In this article, We will discuss “windows 11 compatible cups”. 

Why Are CPU Requirements Important for Windows 11:

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The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your computer, determining how well it can run software and handle tasks. For Windows 11, Microsoft has raised the bar for CPU requirements to improve overall system performance, security, and stability.

Key Benefits of CPU Compatibility in Windows 11:

1. Enhanced Performance: Modern processors are optimized for multitasking, faster boot times, and improved efficiency, ensuring a smoother Windows 11 experience.

1. Built-in Security Features: CPUs compatible with Windows 11 support TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot, critical for safeguarding against cyber threats.

1. Future-Proofing: By setting higher standards, Microsoft ensures that Windows 11 users can take advantage of new features and technologies for years to come.

If you’re using an Intel processor, only certain models are officially supported. Windows 11 is compatible with:

• 8th Generation (Coffee Lake) processors and newer.
• Select models from Intel’s Core X-series, Xeon W-series, and Atom processors.

Also Read: FTPM Will Not Enable In New CPU – A Step-by-Step Guide!

Examples of Supported Intel CPUs:

• 8th Gen (Coffee Lake): Intel Core i3-8100, i5-8400, i7-8700
• 9th Gen (Coffee Lake Refresh): Core i5-9600K, i7-9700K, i9-9900K
• 10th Gen (Comet Lake and Ice Lake): Core i3-10100, i5-10400, i7-10700, i9-10900
• 11th Gen (Tiger Lake and Rocket Lake): Core i5-11400, i7-11700, i9-11900
• 12th Gen (Alder Lake) and newer: Intel’s hybrid architecture supports Windows 11 exceptionally well, thanks to its mix of performance and efficiency cores.

Intel processors are popular for their reliability, widespread availability, and strong single-core performance, making them a top choice for Windows 11 users.

Windows 11 Compatible CPUs: AMD

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For AMD users, the requirements are equally specific. Windows 11 supports AMD Ryzen processors from the 2nd Generation (Zen+) and newer. Additionally, AMD’s EPYC series processors for servers are also supported.

Examples of Supported AMD CPUs:

• AMD Ryzen 2000 Series (Zen+): Ryzen 5 2600, Ryzen 7 2700, Ryzen Threadripper 2950X
• AMD Ryzen 3000 Series (Zen 2): Ryzen 5 3600, Ryzen 7 3700X, Ryzen 9 3900X
• AMD Ryzen 4000 Series (Zen 2): Ryzen 5 4600G, Ryzen 7 4700G
• AMD Ryzen 5000 Series (Zen 3): Ryzen 5 5600X, Ryzen 7 5800X, Ryzen 9 5950X
• AMD EPYC Processors: EPYC 7352, EPYC 7742, and newer

AMD processors are known for their high core counts and excellent multi-threaded performance, making them a great choice for multitasking and heavy workloads.

Windows 11 Compatible CPUs: Qualcomm

For lightweight laptops and tablets, Qualcomm processors are also supported. These CPUs are energy-efficient and designed for ARM-based Windows devices.

Also Read: How Tight To Tighten CPU Cooler – A Complete Guide For Optimal Cooling!

Examples of Supported Qualcomm CPUs:

• Snapdragon 7c Gen 2
• Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2
• Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3

These processors enable always-on connectivity and extended battery life, making them ideal for users on the go.

How to Check If Your CPU is Compatible with Windows 11:

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Wondering if your current CPU can run Windows 11? Here’s how to check:

Use the PC Health Check Tool:

Microsoft offers a free tool called PC Health Check to help users determine compatibility. Download it from the official Microsoft website, run the tool, and it will confirm whether your CPU supports Windows 11. The tool provides a clear report on whether your system meets the requirements for Windows 11. It also highlights any other hardware components that may need an upgrade.

Review Microsoft’s Compatibility List:

Microsoft provides a detailed list of supported Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm processors. You can visit their official compatibility page to verify your CPU model. This list is regularly updated to include new processors as they are tested and approved. Checking it ensures you have the most accurate information about your CPU’s compatibility.

Also Read: How To Unpark CPU Cores – Using Power Settings And Quick CPU!

Manually Check Your CPU Model:

• Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
• In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, check the “Processor” field for your CPU model.
• Compare it with Microsoft’s compatibility list.

What If Your CPU Isn’t Compatible with Windows 11:

If your current processor doesn’t meet the requirements, you still have options:

Upgrade Your CPU:

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Upgrading your processor is the most reliable way to meet Windows 11’s requirements. Ensure your motherboard supports the new CPU before purchasing.Consider researching CPUs compatible with your system to find the best upgrade option. Additionally, check for BIOS updates that may be required for newer processors.

Install Windows 11 on Unsupported Hardware:

While not recommended, it’s possible to bypass the compatibility checks and install Windows 11 on unsupported CPUs. However, you may miss out on updates and security features.Installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware can lead to potential stability issues and limited functionality. 

It’s important to weigh the risks before proceeding, as unsupported systems may not receive critical security patches.

Stick to Windows 10:

Windows 10 will receive support until October 14, 2025, giving you time to upgrade your hardware later. This provides ample time to plan for a hardware upgrade without rushing into a decision. Windows 10 will continue receiving security updates, ensuring your system remains secure. You can make the transition to Windows 11 when your hardware is ready for full compatibility.

Also Read: Proxmox CPU Type – Host, kvm64, Qemu64 & More!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why does Windows 11 require TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot?

These features enhance security by protecting your system from unauthorized access and malware attacks.TPM 2.0 encrypts sensitive data and ensures secure booting, preventing tampering with the operating system. Secure Boot further protects against malicious software by allowing only trusted software to load during startup.

2. Can I run Windows 11 on a virtual machine?

Yes, but the virtual machine must support TPM 2.0 and other system requirements.You will also need to ensure that your virtualization software supports passing through TPM 2.0 to the virtual machine. Keep in mind that running Windows 11 in a VM may require more resources, such as memory and storage. Performance may vary depending on the virtual environment’s capabilities.

3. What is the minimum RAM and storage requirement for Windows 11?

Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage to install.In addition to the minimum RAM and storage, Windows 11 may require more resources for optimal performance with certain features or applications. 

For smoother multitasking and better overall experience, Microsoft recommends 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. Keep in mind that these requirements may increase over time with future updates.

FAQ’s

1. What are the CPU requirements for Windows 11?

Windows 11 requires Intel 8th Gen or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, and select   Qualcomm processors that support TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

2. What CPUs are supported by Windows 11?

Windows 11 supports Intel 8th Gen and newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer, and select Qualcomm Snapdragon processors that meet security requirements.

3. Can my CPU run Windows 11?

Your CPU must be from Intel’s 8th Gen or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, or select Qualcomm models, and it must support TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

4. How do I know if my CPU is compatible with Windows 11?

You can check compatibility by using the PC Health Check tool or reviewing Microsoft’s official list of supported Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm processors.

5. Is my older CPU compatible with Windows 11?

Windows 11 requires a CPU from Intel 8th Gen or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, or select Qualcomm processors, so older CPUs may not meet the requirements.

Conclusion

Windows 11’s CPU requirements are designed to deliver enhanced performance, security, and future-proofing. Supported processors include Intel 8th Gen and newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer, and select Qualcomm models. Ensuring your CPU is compatible guarantees a seamless experience with Windows 11’s advanced features.

UPDATED 2/17/2025: Windows 11 has introduced stricter system requirements compared to its predecessors. To upgrade or perform a clean installation, your device must have a 64-bit dual-core processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and support for Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and Secure Boot. Without these specifications, upgrading from Windows 10 is (technically) not possible.

Unless, of course, you use the different workarounds to bypass the requirements to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.

Historically, Windows versions have maintained consistent hardware requirements. However, Windows 11 marks a significant shift, requiring more robust hardware to support enhanced security features designed to protect computers and data.

Microsoft has emphasized the importance of TPM 2.0, stating it’s “non-negotiable” for Windows 11. This hardware-level component plays a crucial role in encryption, digital signatures, and other cryptographic operations, strengthening system security. Additionally, the operating system is only supported on CPUs released from 2018 onward.

As Windows 10 support approaches its end in October 2025, it’s essential to assess your current hardware’s compatibility with Windows 11.

In this guide, I’ll explain the new system requirements for installing Windows 11 and the steps to check whether your computer can run this version of the operating system.

• Windows 11 system requirements in 2025
• Windows 11 supported processors
• Windows 11 features requirements
• Windows 11 compatibility check
• Windows 11 enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot

These are the new system requirements to upgrade to Windows 11:

• Processor: 1GHz or faster CPU or System on a Chip (SoC) with two or more cores.
• RAM: 4GB (8GB or even 16GB is recommended).
• Hard drive: 64GB or larger.
• System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Graphics: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
• Display resolution: High definition (720p) display greater than 9″ diagonally, 8 bits per color channel.
• Networking: Internet connectivity and a Microsoft account are required for Windows 11 Home and Pro.

Windows 11 supported processors 

Windows 11 supports a range of processors from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm. For Intel, the operating system is compatible with 8th Generation (Coffee Lake) and newer processors, including some Pentium, Atom, Celeron, and Xeon CPUs.

Microsoft has also extended support to select 7th Generation Intel processors, such as the Core i7-7820HQ, primarily found in devices with Declarative, Componentized, Hardware Support Apps (DCH) drivers.

For AMD users, Windows 11 requires 2nd Generation Ryzen (Zen+) and newer processors, alongside the Ryzen, Threadripper, and select Athlon and EPYC series.

Regarding ARM-based systems, the operating system is compatible with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series, 850, 7c, 7c Gen 2, 7c+ Gen 3, 8c, 8cx, 8cx Gen 2, 8cx Gen 3, and Microsoft’s SQ1, SQ2, and SQ3 processors.

Starting with version 24H2, Windows 11 mandates that processors support the POPCNT (Population Count) instruction. This requirement ensures the system boots correctly. Additionally, CPUs must support SSE4.2 (for Intel) or SSE4A (for AMD) instruction sets, which enhance multimedia processing capabilities. These requirements primarily impact processors released before 2007, which are generally unsupported by Windows 11.

Here’s the list of the supported processors from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm.

Intel supported processors

• 8th Gen (Coffee Lake).
• 9th Gen (Coffee Lake Refresh).
• 10th Gen (Comet Lake and Ice Lake).
• 11th Gen (Rocket Lake and Tiger Lake).
• 12th Gen (Alder Lake).
• 13th Gen (Raptor Lake).
• Xeon – Skylake-SP, Cascade Lake-SP, Cooper Lake-SP, Ice Lake-SP
• Supported Intel processors (original).

AMD supported processors

• Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, and 8000.
• Ryzen Threadripper Pro 59xxWX.
• Ryzen Embedded V25xx and V27xx.
• EPYC 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen.
• Athlon – Gold, Silver, 3xxx, 300x.
• Supported AMD processors (original).

Microsoft has updated the official Windows 11 24H2 page for supported AMD processors, which now shows that the AMD Ryzen 8000 series is officially supported. However, the page still misses the Ryzen 9000 desktop, Ryzen AI Max+, and 300 series parts.

It’s important to note that while some newer processors from AMD (or Intel) may still be missing from the official support, it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to install Windows 11. It only means that the company still hasn’t certified them to be supported, but they should work as expected. 

Qualcomm supported processors

• Snapdragon X Elite.
• Snapdragon X Plus.
• Snapdragon 850.
• Snapdragon 7c.
• Snapdragon 8c.
• Snapdragon 8cx.
• Snapdragon 8cx (Gen2).
• Microsoft SQ1.
• Microsoft SQ2.
• All supported Qualcomm processors.

If the computer doesn’t meet the minimum requirements, you will still be able to upgrade at your own risk using the ISO file or USB bootable media, as long as the device includes a 64-bit processor with at least two cores, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and an enabled TPM 1.2 chip and Secure Boot. If the device does not have a TPM chip or Secure Boot, installing Windows 11 with different workarounds is still possible.

Windows 11 features requirements

Alongside the minimum system requirement, Microsoft has also published a list of specific hardware required to support specific features of Windows 11.

• Recall: requires NPU.
• Studio Effects: requires NPU.
• Live Captions: requires NPU.
• Automatic Super Resolution: requires NPU.
• Voice Clarity: requires NPU.
• Cocreator for Paint: requires NPU.
• Restyle Image for Photos: requires NPU.
• 5G support: requires a 5G capable modem.
• Auto HDR: requires an HDR monitor.
• BitLocker to Go: requires a USB flash drive.
• Client Hyper-V: requires a processor with second-level address translation (SLAT) capabilities (available in Windows Pro and above editions).
• DirectStorage: requires 1 TB or greater NVMe SSD to store and run games that use the “Standard NVM Express Controller” driver and a DirectX 12 Ultimate GPU.
• DirectX 12 Ultimate: available with supported games and graphics chips.
• Presence requires a sensor that can detect human distance from the device or intent to interact with the device.
• Intelligent Video Conferencing: This feature requires a video camera, microphone, and speaker (audio output).
• Multiple Voice Assistant (MVA): requires a microphone and speaker.
• Snap three-column layouts: require a screen that is 1920 effective pixels or greater in width.
• Mute/Unmute from Taskbar: requires a video camera, microphone, and speaker (audio output). The app must be compatible with features to enable global mute/unmute.
• Spatial Sound: requires supporting hardware and software.
• Touch: requires a screen or monitor that supports multi-touch.
• Two-factor authentication requires using a PIN, biometric (fingerprint reader or illuminated infrared camera), or a phone with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.
• Voice Typing: requires a microphone.
• Wake on Voice: requires a Modern Standby power model and microphone.
• Wi-Fi 6E: requires new WLAN IHV hardware and driver and a Wi-Fi 6E capable access point or router.
• Wi-Fi 7: requires a Wi-Fi 7 compatible adapter and access point or router.
• Windows Hello: requires a camera configured for near-infrared (IR) imaging or a fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. Devices without biometric sensors can use Windows Hello with a PIN or a portable Microsoft-compatible security key.
• Windows Projection: requires a display adapter that supports Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) 2.0 and a Wi-Fi adapter that supports Wi-Fi Direct.

Windows 11 compatibility check

You can use the Microsoft PC Health Check app to confirm whether your computer meets the minimum requirements. If the system configuration isn’t compatible, the app will also show you details of the components that are not compatible. This information will help you determine steps to resolve the problem or whether it’s time to upgrade the device.

To check if your PC’s hardware will run Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.

2. Search for PC Health Check and click the top result to open the app.

3. Click the Check now button.

   

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4. Confirm if your computer will run Windows 11.

5. (Optional) Click the “See all results” button to view a list of the components that passed the compatibility.

   

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6. (Optional) Click the “Device specifications” button to understand the system requirements better.

Once you complete the steps, if the hardware is compatible, you’ll receive a message confirming the support for the new version. If the hardware isn’t compatible, you will get a message detailing why the device can run Windows 11.

If the app isn’t available on your computer, you must get it manually from this Microsoft link.

Windows 11 enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot

On Windows 11, one of the most important requirements is the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and Secure Boot. According to Microsoft, the TPM chip and Secure Boot are needed to provide a better security environment and prevent sophisticated threats against hardware and firmware, common malware, ransomware, and other attacks.

Check if PC has TPM 2.0

To determine if TPM is enabled, use these steps:

1. Open Start.

2. Search for tpm.msc and click the top result to open the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management tool.

3. Confirm TPM is present and version in the Status and TPM Manufacturer Information sections.

   

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If the device includes TPM, you’ll see the hardware information and its status. Otherwise, if it reads “Compatible TPM cannot be found,” the chip is disabled on the UEFI, or the device doesn’t have the module.

Enable TPM 2.0 on system firmware

To enable TPM 2.0 for Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.

2. Click on Update & Security.

3. Click on Recovery.

4. Click the Restart now button under the “Advanced startup” section.

   

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5. Click on Troubleshoot.

   

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6. Click on Advanced options.

7. Click the “UEFI Firmware settings” option.

   

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8. Click the Restart button.

9. Click the advanced, security, or boot settings page, depending on the motherboard.

10. Select the TPM 2.0 option and choose the Enabled option.

    

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If the motherboard doesn’t have a TPM chip, and you are running an AMD processor, the module is likely built into the processor, and the option will be available as “fTPM” (firmware-based TPM 2.0) or “AMD fTPM switch.” If the device is an Intel-based system, TPM will be available as Platform Trust Technology (PTT).

If the device does not have a TPM option, and this is a custom build, you may be able to purchase a module to add the support. However, make sure to consult the motherboard manufacturer’s website to confirm that the support exists.

After you complete the steps, the Windows 11 check should pass, allowing you to upgrade the computer to the new OS.

Check if PC has Secure Boot

To determine whether Secure Boot is enabled, use these steps:

1. Open Start.

2. Search for System Information and click the top result to open the app.

3. Click on System Summary on the left pane.

4. Check the “Secure Boot State” information and confirm the feature is set to On. If it’s not, you need to enable the option manually.

   

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Once you complete the steps, if the security feature is enabled, you can continue installing Windows 11. Otherwise, follow the steps to enable it inside the motherboard’s firmware.

Enable Secure Boot for Windows 11

If the device uses the legacy BIOS, you first need to convert the MBR drive to GPT, then switch to UEFI mode and enable Secure Boot. Otherwise, the computer won’t boot. You can skip the convention if you are trying to perform a clean installation, but this is a requirement if you are trying to upgrade from the Windows 10 desktop.

To enable Secure Boot on your computer, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.

2. Click on Update & Security.

3. Click on Recovery.

4. Click the Restart now button under the “Advanced startup” section.

   

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5. Click on Troubleshoot.

   

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6. Click on Advanced options.

7. Click the “UEFI Firmware settings” option.

   

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8. Click the Restart button.

9. Click the advanced, security, or boot settings page, depending on the motherboard.

10. Select the “Secure Boot” option and choose the Enabled option.

Almost all devices featuring UEFI firmware will include Secure Boot, but if this is not the case, you will need to upgrade the system or get a new computer.

After you complete the steps, the computer should pass the hardware verification process to proceed with the in-place upgrade or clean install of Windows 11.

Update February 17, 2025: This content has been updated with new information, and it’s been revised to ensure accuracy.