Windows 10 S vs Pro: Which is Better For You?
Find out which edition of Windows 10 to install
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Key notes
- Windows 10 S and Windows 10 Pro both cater to a specific set of users, though most of the features are common between the two editions.
- In terms of performance and security, Windows 10 S is a better choice.
- For enhanced control and app compatibility, you should go with Windows 10 Pro.
Windows 10 S is Microsoft’s newest operating system designed for teachers, students, and customers who need to access only certain core programs. And many often compare Windows 10 S and Windows 10 Pro to identify which works best.
Windows 10 S is lightweight, streamlined, and designed to boot up quickly. In this manner, teachers and students no longer waste precious minutes waiting for their computers to start, a common slow boot time issue in Windows 10.
However, many potential users are confused, not knowing which Windows 10 version to install on their computers. Indeed, there are significant differences between the various Windows 10 editions currently available on the market.
To help you decide which edition to install, we will quickly compare the features of Windows 10 S vs Windows 10 Pro.
Windows 10 S vs Windows 10 Pro: A detailed comparison
Productivity and user experience
In terms of productivity and user experience, there is only one difference. Cortana is available on Windows 10 Pro but is disabled in the S mode. The following features are available on both Windows 10 S mode and Windows 10 Pro:
- Continuum for phones
- Windows Ink3
- Start Menu and Live Tiles
- Tablet Mode
- Voice, pen, touch, and gesture
- Microsoft Edge (with a wide array of new user-friendly features)
Management and deployment
Windows 10 S offers five extra device and app management and deployment features compared to Windows 10 Pro:
- DirectAccess
- AppLocker
- Managed User Experience
- Microsoft Application Virtualization (App-V)8
- Microsoft User Environment Virtualization (UE-V)
The following features are available on both Windows 10 S and Windows 10 Pro:
- Group Policy
- Mobile Device Management
- Enterprise State Roaming with Azure Active Directory
- Windows Store for Business
- Assigned Access
- Dynamic Provisioning
- Windows Update
- Windows Update for Business
- Shared PC configuration
- Take a Test
Security features
In terms of security features, Windows 10 S offers two extra features: Credential Guard and Device Guard. All the other Windows 10 Pro security features are also available on Windows 10 S.
A major difference between the two editions is that Windows 10 S mode only allows apps from Microsoft Store to be installed on the PC. So, if we compare the security aspect of Windows 10 S mode vs Windows 10 Pro, the former emerges as the clear winner.
Core Windows features
Windows 10 S scores higher on core Windows features. More specifically, the new OS supports Windows to Go and BranchCache, whereas Windows 10 Pro doesn’t.
If you still need help deciding, Microsoft has implemented a new selection system for Windows 10 on its website. All you need to do is answer a series of questions, and Microsoft will recommend the Windows 10 that best suits your needs.
So, when we draw a comparison of Windows 10 S vs Windows 10 Pro, both are just as good, and it all comes down to individual requirements. However, the former would be the perfect fit if you are looking for enhanced security.
For those planning the switch out of Windows 10 S mode, the process is simple and quick.
What do you think about Windows 10 S? Are you planning to check it anytime soon? Also, leave your feedback on Windows 10 S in the comments section.
