This checklist covers just the minimum specs needed to install Windows 12 — not the AI feature tier.
The Checklist
| Component | Minimum | How to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 64-bit, 2+ cores, 1GHz+ | Settings → System → About |
| RAM | 8 GB | Settings → System → About |
| Storage | 64 GB free | File Explorer → This PC |
| Graphics | DirectX 12, WDDM 3.0 | Run dxdiag.exe |
| Security chip | TPM 2.0 | Run tpm.msc |
| Display | 720p, 9"+ | Settings → System → Display |
The Requirement Most PCs Fail: WDDM 3.0
Older Intel UHD Graphics chips before 10th Gen may lack driver support even if otherwise capable. Check via Run → dxdiag → Display tab.
The Surprise Requirement: 8GB RAM
Double Windows 11's 4GB minimum — budget laptops with 4-6GB from 2021-2022 won't qualify even if they run Windows 11 fine today.
If You Don't Meet Minimums
Expect official channels to block installation, with unofficial community workarounds likely emerging, as happened with Windows 11.
Quick Self-Check
PCs purchased since ~2020 with 8GB+ RAM and no Windows 11 struggles will very likely qualify.