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Design devices

Building a great Windows 10 or Windows 11 device starts with selecting the right components. Understanding the difference between minimum and optimal hardware requirements will ensure the best usability and performance. To take advantage of the latest features like Cortana and Continuum, your hardware must meet specific requirements to ensure an optimal device experience.

Form factors

windows device form factors

Windows 10 and Windows 11 support a wide range of devices—from tablets to laptops, to All-in-one or desktop devices. See Form factors to choose your device and learn more info about creating great Windows devices.

Design guidelines

review minimum hardware requirements

The minimum hardware requirements specification defines the minimum hardware requirements necessary to boot and run Windows 10 and Windows 11, update and service Windows 10 and Windows 11, and provide a baseline user experience that is comparable with similar devices and computers.

Minimum hardware requirements enable OEMs, ODMs, SoC vendors, and other component vendors to make early design decisions for devices and computers that will run Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Review the minimum hardware requirements

plan the user experience

Build devices that take full advantage of the latest features. To get started learn how the feature works and then choose the right hardware.

Learn more about the latest Windows features

select the right components

Building a great device for Windows means with selecting the right components. Microsoft makes recommendations to help you put together the best system for running Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Learn more about individual component guidelines

test for compatibility and reliability

We provide tests that help you deliver systems, software and hardware products that are compatible with Windows and run reliably on Windows 10 and Windows 11. We also give you the opportunity to promote your product on Microsoft’s Certified Products List and with the Windows logo.

Learn more about the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program