KDE has started a new initiative called “W10 for Exiles” aimed at convincing users to abandon plans to upgrade to Windows 11 and instead consider switching to Plasma, especially if they're still using Windows 10. This is happening five months before the end-of-support date for Windows 10, which is scheduled for October 14, 2025.

While this might be an opportune moment to advocate for Linux, KDE's “W10 for exiles” campaign leans heavily on dramatic language, fear tactics, and anti-Windows sentiment rather than highlighting the advantages of open-source software.

The campaign starts off by labeling PCs running Windows 10 as “toast,” claiming Microsoft intends to make the OS obsolete. And no, I’m not exaggerating—this is directly from KDE’s official website (kde.org/for/w10-exiles/), where they’ve even posted an image depicting a Windows PC in a broken state.

Although it's true that after the end-of-support date Windows 10 will no longer receive updates, calling older PCs "toast" is a stretch considering most Windows 10 machines continue to function perfectly well.

The latter part of the campaign adopts a confrontational tone toward Microsoft, accusing the company of engaging in “extortion” with its end-of-support policy.

“Even if you agree to this tech extortion now, in a few years’ time, they will do it again as they have done many times in the past,” states KDE in their campaign.

This is a textbook case of fearmongering and doesn't align with reality. Especially since Microsoft offers various upgrade options, including optional ESUs.

While it's accurate that support for Windows 10 is ending, Microsoft made this clear from the beginning. In fact, all non-subscription paid software eventually reaches an end-of-support deadline—not just Microsoft products.

In this instance, Microsoft is concluding support for Windows 10 after a decade, giving users the choice to either stick with Windows 10 or upgrade to Windows 11.

It's also feasible to install Windows 11 on devices that aren’t officially supported if you choose. It's not like your Windows 10 machine will stop functioning after support ends. Most everyday users wouldn’t notice any immediate change.

Alternatively, you can pay $30 to extend security updates for Windows 10 or simply keep using the system without monthly security patches. Third-party antivirus tools are also available to help safeguard your computer.

KDE claims that Windows includes ads, full-screen pop-ups, and more features that Plasma does not

Microsoft displays some promotional content in the Start menu or Settings app for its own services, but these can be disabled, and we've never encountered third-party advertisements within the OS. These may be prompts to use Bing or Microsoft Edge, but you won't run into intrusive ads on Windows 11 that can't be turned off.

Microsoft isn't compelling anyone to discard their current PC, despite what KDE suggests in its campaign.

Despite my appreciation for open-source software and frequent personal usage, this campaign falls short of doing justice to the cause and instead capitalizes on anti-Windows rhetoric. Will such an approach really persuade people to try Linux? I seriously doubt it.

According to StatCounter, Linux’s market share remains around 4% or lower, while Windows holds onto about 70% of the market.

Open-source software deserves greater recognition and adoption, but fear-based messaging could push away the very audience they aim to attract. What are your thoughts on this campaign?

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