Our verdict: Media Creation Tool is the official and safest way to get a Windows 11 installer onto a USB stick. It downloads the current release straight from Microsoft and needs no extra software. It only makes x64 media and offers no advanced options such as skipping hardware checks.
About Media Creation Tool
Media Creation Tool is a small program from Microsoft that downloads the current Windows 11 release and turns it into installation media. You can write it directly to a USB flash drive of at least 8 GB or save it as an ISO file to burn to a DVD or use in a virtual machine.
Microsoft recommends it for reinstalling or clean installing Windows 11 on a new or used PC. You choose the language and edition, and the tool does the rest. It creates media only for x64 processors; Arm-based PCs are not supported. Installing Windows still requires a Windows 10/11 license or an eligible Windows 10 device.
What it does well
- Bootable USB. Writes Windows 11 setup to a USB flash drive of 8 GB or more.
- ISO download. Saves an ISO file for a DVD or a virtual machine.
- Current release. Always downloads the latest Windows 11 version from Microsoft.
- Language and edition. Lets you pick the language and edition of the media.
- No install. Runs as a single EXE and needs administrator rights.
Who it is for
Good fit
Anyone who needs to reinstall Windows 11 or install it on another PC from a USB drive.
Look elsewhere
Arm-based PCs, or users who want to customise the installer or bypass hardware requirements; Rufus offers more options.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Official Microsoft download
- Simple step-by-step wizard
- Makes USB drive or ISO
- No installation needed
Cons
- Creates media only for x64 PCs, not Arm
- Erases the whole USB drive and offers no advanced options
- Downloads several gigabytes every time you make new media
How to install Media Creation Tool
Run MediaCreationTool.exe as administrator and accept the license terms. Choose Create installation media for another PC, pick the language and edition, then select a USB flash drive or ISO file. Everything on the USB drive is erased.
Questions about Media Creation Tool
Is Media Creation Tool free?
Yes. The tool is free from Microsoft, but you still need a valid Windows license to activate Windows 11.
How big a USB drive do I need?
Microsoft asks for a blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space. Everything on it will be deleted.
Can I make media for an Arm PC?
No. The Windows 11 Media Creation Tool only creates media for x64 processors.
