Which Windows 11 to Install in 2024: 24H2 or 25H2

Windows 11 version 24H2 (2024 Update) is the recommended version for installation in 2024, as it is already available, stable, and optimized for gaming systems, while version 25H2 is scheduled for September 2025 and represents a minor update without significant improvements.

Table of Contents

• Windows 11 Version Analysis
• Gaming Performance
• Installation Recommendations
• Additional Optimization Tips
• Conclusion

Windows 11 Version Analysis

Windows 11 version 24H2 (2024 Update) is the current major version, released on October 1, 2024. Meanwhile, version 25H2 is expected only on September 30, 2025, and will be an enablement package on top of 24H2 rather than a standalone system build.

Key differences between versions:

• 24H2 - full update with new features and optimizations
• 25H2 - minor update without new features, mainly for security support

Important: As noted in Microsoft documentation, 25H2 will be available as an optional update for users who have enabled the “Get the latest updates as soon as possible” setting.

Gaming Performance

For your gaming computer with RTX 3070 Ti, Intel Core i5-12400F, and 32 GB RAM, gaming performance will be critically important. Tests show mixed results:

Positive aspects of 24H2:

• Improved DirectX 12 optimization
• Auto Super Resolution for texture quality enhancement
• Fix for memory issues after installing KB5058499

Performance comparison tests:

• DirectX 11 (Fire Strike): 23H2 shows 9.5% better results than 24H2
• DirectX 12 (Time Spy): 24H2 demonstrates comparable or even better results

Key point: According to Neowin tests, the i5-12400F processor performs better in 24H2 in DirectX 12 games.

Installation Recommendations

For your system, the following approach is recommended:

Step 1: System Preparation

• Ensure all components meet Windows 11 requirements
• Download the image from the official Microsoft website
• Check driver compatibility for your graphics card and motherboard

Step 2: Installation Method Selection

• Clean installation is preferable for a gaming system
• Use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive
• Prepare partitions on SSD with sufficient free space

Step 3: Post-Installation Updates

• Install all critical updates through Windows Update
• Pay special attention to installing KB5058499 or later updates
• Enable the Auto Super Resolution feature in system settings

Important: As reported on Windows Central, this specific update resolves the graphics memory leak and game freezing issues in 24H2.

Additional Optimization Tips

Gaming Optimization:

1. Drivers: Install the latest NVIDIA drivers through GeForce Experience
2. Performance Profiles: Use NVIDIA Control Panel to configure game profiles
3. Game Mode: Enable Game Mode in Windows settings
4. DirectX: Update DirectX to the latest version

Useful Utilities:

• MSI Afterburner - temperature and frequency monitoring
• HWiNFO64 - detailed component monitoring
• CCleaner - system cleanup and startup optimization
• Steam Big Picture - if you use Steam

Other Users’ Experiences:

Based on discussions on Reddit, many users report:

• Improved overall system performance when upgrading to 24H2
• Game stability after installing security updates
• Better multitasking performance

Conclusion

For your gaming computer in 2024, Windows 11 version 24H2 is unequivocally recommended. Despite some initial issues, especially in DirectX 11 games, this version offers better performance in modern games and long-term support.

Key Recommendations:

1. Choose a clean installation of Windows 11 24H2 from the official Microsoft website
2. Be sure to install KB5058499 or later updates
3. Optimize your system for gaming using the recommended utilities
4. Keep your graphics card and motherboard drivers updated

Version 25H2 is not worth installing at this time, as it won’t bring significant improvements and will only be available in 2025 as a minor update on top of 24H2.

Sources

1. Windows 11 version 24H2 release date and features
2. Windows 11 version 25H2 release information
3. Performance benchmarks: 24H2 vs 23H2
4. Gaming stability improvements with KB5058499
5. Official Microsoft Windows 11 24H2 documentation
6. Reddit discussions on gaming performance