Intel vs AMD: Microsoft’s Preferred Choice for a Windows 11 Pro PC Build
Microsoft has been increasingly encouraging users to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 , especially as the end of support for Windows 10 approaches. But its latest promotional campaign has sparked some discussion — particularly due to a noticeable absence.
Let’s take a look at Microsoft’s recent efforts, and why Intel is being promoted over AMD in its latest enterprise-focused ad.
📢 Microsoft’s Ongoing Push for Windows 11 Upgrades
Over the past year, Microsoft has launched several campaigns to encourage upgrades:
- In February 2024 , it released an ad highlighting the benefits of Windows 11 over Windows 10 .
- By June , the company was addressing common myths and misconceptions about upgrading.
- In December 2024 , Microsoft emphasized the gaming improvements available in Windows 11.
Not all promotions have landed well, though. In January 2025 , a post titled “Free Upgrade to Windows 11 (For a Limited Time Only)” was published — but it lacked clarity and was later removed.
🎯 New Ad Targets IT Pros – With a Clear Intel Focus
Recently, Microsoft posted a new video on its official YouTube channel , titled:
“Right side of risk | Windows 11 Pro and Intel.”
The ad is aimed at IT professionals and enterprise users , and promotes upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Pro . However, what caught attention is that the promotion specifically highlights Intel vPro processors — with no mention of AMD Ryzen PRO CPUs.
❓Why No Mention of AMD?
This isn’t the first time Microsoft has favored Intel in promotional content. Back in 2021 , Microsoft urged buyers to “look for the Intel Evo badge” on laptops, calling them “verified wonderful.” That page was also taken down after criticism.
Meanwhile, AMD has its own support article , titled:
“Support Your Customers’ Move to Windows 11, With AMD Ryzen™ PRO Processors.”
So far, Microsoft has not released a similar ad promoting AMD hardware — raising questions about whether both CPU makers are being treated equally.
🔚 Final Thoughts: A One-Sided Promotion?
While Microsoft’s campaign may be aimed at helping businesses prepare for the end of Windows 10 support, the decision to spotlight only Intel could send the wrong message to users and partners. If Microsoft truly supports a wide range of hardware, it should reflect that in its marketing.
It’s possible that a version featuring AMD is still in the works — but until then, this campaign appears to favor one brand more than the other.
