Windows PE 10 is a requirement if your system uses Windows 8.1 WIMBoot technology or if your system is a Windows 10 ‘Compact Install’. This is the best choice for Win 8, 8.1, 10, Server 2012, 2012R2 systems. Supports UEFI / secure boot, USB 3.0, HyperV Gen 2 VMs and Windows overlay file systems. Note: The Windows PE 5.0 download option is not available if you are running Windows XP or Server 2003. You may also consider this for older systems requiring default USB3 support. This is a good choice for Windows 8/8.1 or Windows Server 2012 systems. Supports UEFI / secure boot, USB 3.0 and HyperV Generation 2 virtual machines. We recommend that you use PE 5.0/10 unless your require PE 5.0 features on Windows XP or Server 2003. This is a legacy option that is provided if you have used previous versions of Macrium Reflect before PE 5.0 was included. Similar to Windows PE 5.0, but based on the Windows 8.0 kernel. Note: Some very early Windows XP systems may not meet the minimum requirements to boot Windows PE. This is the best option for Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, Server 2003, Server 2008, 2008R2 operating systems. PE versionDescriptionWindows PE 3.1Based on Windows 7.
However, versions of Windows PE that are more recent than your Windows OS may already contain compatible drivers and also offer additional support for USB 3.0. This enables the rescue media wizard to automatically copy any required drivers for Network, USB or SATA controllers. The default option selects the Windows PE version that is the best match for your Windows operating system. You should choose a version of Windows PE that can access your System drive and also your backup location.
What version of Windows PE should I choose?