Steam’s latest Hardware Survey data reveals a significant milestone for Microsoft’s modern operating system. As of June 2026, Windows 11 accounts for 70.44% of all Steam users, marking the first time it has firmly crossed the three-digit threshold in this specific dataset.
The Windows shift continues
The transition from legacy to modern systems is accelerating among gamers. Windows 11 gained 0.68% market share in June alone, while Windows 10 declined by 0.43%. This steady erosion of the older OS base suggests that users are increasingly migrating to Windows 11 rather than abandoning Windows entirely for alternative platforms.
This trend aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing push to retire Windows 10 support, which is scheduled to end in October 2025. With extended security updates only available through paid subscriptions until 2027, the incentive to upgrade is becoming more urgent for everyday users who rely on their PCs for gaming and daily tasks.
Linux and macOS see minor gains
While Windows dominates, other operating systems are not standing still. Linux currently holds 3.69% of the Steam market share, a slight decrease of 0.30% from the previous month. However, this is still a significant improvement compared to last year, when Linux sat at just 2.57%. The long-term upward trajectory for Linux on PC gaming remains intact, driven by Proton compatibility layers and native game support.
macOS also saw a small increase, rising by 0.05% to reach 2.21%, up from 1.76% during the same period last year. While macOS remains a niche player in the PC gaming space due to hardware limitations and software compatibility issues, its steady growth indicates a dedicated user base.
What this means for you
If you are still running Windows 10, the data suggests you are part of a shrinking minority. The 70% adoption rate for Windows 11 indicates that most gamers have already made the switch, likely due to hardware requirements for newer titles or the impending end of free support for Windows 10.
For those considering an upgrade, now is the time to ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. If your current hardware does not support it, you may need to look into a new machine before October 2025 to avoid being left without security updates. Meanwhile, Linux enthusiasts can take comfort in the fact that their platform continues to grow year-over-year, even if monthly fluctuations occur.
Source: Windows Central
Over to you: Are you upgrading to Windows 11 for the latest features, or waiting until Windows 10 support officially ends?
