Windows 10 Education vs. Pro - What's the Difference?

By Marlo Strydom

If you're deciding between Windows 10 Education and Windows 10 Pro, it can be hard to tell what actually sets them apart. They look similar at first, but there are a few key differences that matter depending on how you plan to use your computer.

This article breaks down what each version is for, what features they include, and which one might be the better fit for you — whether you're a student, teacher, or just looking for the right Windows setup.

What Is Windows 10 Pro?

Windows 10 Pro is made for people who need a bit more than what the standard Home edition offers. It's commonly used by small businesses, remote workers, IT pros, and anyone who wants extra control over their system.

It includes features like Remote Desktop, BitLocker encryption, and Group Policy management — things that help with productivity, security, and managing devices. You also get access to tools like Hyper-V for running virtual machines and Windows Sandbox for testing apps safely.

In short, it's a solid choice for work, development, or advanced personal use.

What Is Windows 10 Education?

Windows 10 Education is aimed at students, teachers, and schools. It's based on the Enterprise edition, which means it comes with a few more advanced features than Pro — but it's tailored for use in classrooms and school networks.

You'll find things like AppLocker, Credential Guard, and the Take a Test app, which are useful in school settings. It also leaves out some extras like Cortana, so there are fewer distractions during class or study time.

Most people get access to Windows 10 Education through their school, either as a free or discounted license. It's not usually sold directly in stores the way Pro is.

Windows 10 Education vs. Pro: Side-by-Side Feature Comparison

Here's a quick look at how Windows 10 Pro and Education stack up. Both editions share many core features, but there are some key differences that could make one a better fit depending on how you use your PC.

| Feature | Windows 10 Pro | Windows 10 Education | | --- | --- | --- | | BitLocker Encryption | ✅ | ✅ | | Remote Desktop | ✅ | ✅ | | Hyper-V Virtualization | ✅ | ✅ | | Group Policy Management | ✅ | ✅ | | Assigned Access | ✅ | ❌ | | AppLocker | ❌ | ✅ | | Mobile Device Management (MDM) | ✅ | ✅ | | Microsoft Intune | ✅ | ✅ (Education-focused) | | Windows Sandbox | ✅ | ✅ | | Cortana | ✅ | ❌ | | Windows Defender Credential Guard | ❌ | ✅ | | Take a Test App | ❌ | ✅ | | Azure Active Directory Join | ✅ | ✅ |

Real-World Differences That Matter

On paper, the features between Pro and Education might seem pretty similar — but how they feel in everyday use is where the real differences show up.

  • No Cortana in Education
    Cortana is removed in Education to reduce distractions in learning environments.

  • AppLocker and Take a Test are Education-only
    AppLocker lets admins control which apps can run. Take a Test creates a safe testing space.

  • Missing media features in "N" versions
    The "N" version of Education doesn't include Windows Media Player or pre-installed media codecs.

  • Harder to get for regular users
    Education is usually only available through schools or academic volume licensing.

  • Feels more like Enterprise than Pro
    It includes more admin-level features and stricter security by default.

Which Edition Is Better for You?

If you're trying to figure out which one to pick, it really comes down to how you use your computer and whether you have access to the Education version.

✅ Choose Windows 10 Pro if:

  • You run a small business or work from home.

  • You need access to tools like Remote Desktop, Hyper-V, or Group Policy.

  • You prefer something you can buy and install easily.

  • You want Cortana and media features ready to go.

🎓 Choose Windows 10 Education if:

  • You're a student or educator and your school offers it.

  • You want Enterprise-level security and management tools.

  • You don't need Cortana or media features pre-installed.

  • You'll benefit from classroom tools like AppLocker and Take a Test.

Windows 10 Education N — What's Missing?

If you've come across the "N" version of Windows 10 Education, here's what it means: the "N" editions are versions of Windows sold in Europe that don't include certain media-related features due to legal requirements.

What's missing:

  • Windows Media Player

  • Voice Recorder

  • Skype

  • Movies & TV app

  • Pre-installed media codecs

You can still add these features back with Microsoft's Media Feature Pack .

Gaming and App Compatibility: Any Issues with Education?

If you're using the regular (non-N) version of Windows 10 Education, most games and apps work just like they do on Pro. It supports DirectX, the Microsoft Store, Steam, and more.

However:

  • Games that use media components might not run properly on Education N until you install the Media Feature Pack.

  • Some system policies could block certain apps, especially if your school manages the device.

For most users, these are minor issues and can be worked around.

Licensing and Upgrading: What to Know

💼 Windows 10 Pro

You can upgrade from Home to Pro through the Microsoft Store:

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation

  • Click Go to the Store

  • Purchase and install Pro

🎓 Windows 10 Education

Usually provided through schools:

  • Free or discounted through programs like OnTheHub or Azure for Education

  • May expire after graduation or require a school email to activate

  • Not typically sold to the general public

So, Which One Should You Go With?

If you're trying to decide between Windows 10 Pro and Education, the right choice really depends on what you're using your PC for — and whether you have access to the Education version.

Go with Windows 10 Pro if you want a widely supported, easy-to-purchase edition that's great for work, development, or general use.

Choose Windows 10 Education if your school offers it and you want extra security features or classroom-focused tools.