Can You Upgrade Windows RT to Windows 10? The Truth Behind Compatibility Limitations
Windows RT to Windows 10 Upgrade: What You Need to Know
Many early Windows RT users have been grappling with the question of whether they can upgrade their Surface RT or Surface 2 devices to Windows 10. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is a resounding 'No' and this article aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of why this is the case.
Microsoft's Official Position
The official stance from Microsoft is that you cannot upgrade Windows RT to Windows 10. Microsoft officially ended support for Windows RT in 2016, and there is no official way to perform this upgrade. This stance is not new; it has remained consistent over the years. The Windows RT era came to a premature end, and with it, the dream of seamlessly upgrading to the latest Windows version.
Why You Can't Upgrade Windows RT to Windows 10
The limitations in upgrading Windows RT to Windows 10 stem from several key factors:
Processor Incompatibility: Windows RT is designed specifically for 32-bit ARM architecture, which is a different processor architecture from the 64-bit ARM chips used in newer versions of the Windows operating system. Because of this, the hardware on early Windows RT devices (such as Surface RT and Surface 2) is not compatible with the updated Windows 10 for ARM, which is only designed to run on 64-bit ARM processors. Official Support Cessation: Microsoft officially terminated support for Windows RT in 2016, which means that all updates and security patches were no longer provided. This lack of support further compounds the incompatibility issues and makes any upgrade to Windows 10 impossible. Type of Operating System: Windows RT was a limited version, primarily designed for tablets. It enforced the use of MS Store apps, limiting the user experience to a specific set of predefined applications. This limited approach does not align with the rich ecosystem and versatility of Windows 10, which supports a wide range of apps and services.What Are Your Options?
Given the limitations mentioned above, your best option with a Surface RT or Surface 2 device is to move towards modern, fully supported devices. Here are a few suggestions:
Upgrade to Windows 10 ARM: If your device supports a 64-bit ARM processor, you may be able to upgrade to Windows 10 ARM, which is currently available on newer devices like the Surface Pro 8 or Microsoft Surface Laptop 5. Consider a New Surface Pro or Laptop: Investing in a new Surface Pro or Surface laptop is highly recommended. These devices are fully supported by Microsoft and come with all the latest features and upgrades. Your initial investment pays off in the long run. Get a Generic Laptop or Desktop: If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, there are many affordable laptops and desktop computers available that run on fully supported versions of Windows. These devices offer a more comprehensive and future-proof solution.Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is tempting to seek a way to upgrade your Surface RT or Surface 2 to Windows 10, the reality is that this is not feasible due to the limitations in processor architecture and official support. Early ARM devices like the Surface RT and Surface 2 are not designed to run Windows 10, and upgrading them is not possible.
The best course of action is to explore newer, fully supported devices. Whether you opt for a modern Surface Pro, a generic laptop or desktop, or another brand's device, transitioning to a fully supported platform will provide you with the benefits and features that were not available on Windows RT.