Which for tween user..32-bit or 64-bit?

Discussion in 'Software' started by wetrat, Feb 8, 2009.

  1. wetrat

    wetrat Private E-2

    Looking at a notebook with Vista and something like 2GHz processor, 667MHzFSB, 1MBL2, 200GBHD, 3GBRAM.
    User would be routinely running things like iTunes, Photoshop, The Sims (V3 when released), mid-range cameras, external drives, flash drives and hopefully squeezing in some school work.
    I understand, kind of, that the 64-bit has a higher level of memory support (up to 128GB) to enhance performance.
    My fear is that I may be limiting the user to things that require 64-bit and possible driver problems with current hardware/periphials.
    I'm thinking we should stick with the 32-bit, making sure the notebook RAM doesn't exceed 4GB. What do you think?
    Also, are Vista Home Basic & Home Premium each available in either 32- or 64-bit?
    Thanks!
     
    wetrat, Feb 8, 2009
    #1
  2. Just Playin

    Just Playin MajorGeek

    The 64 bit OS will perform much better than the equivalent 32 bit OS. Most 32 bit applications will run on a 64 bit Vista OS and some applications are available in 64 bit versions. Check the software maker's website for compatibility. Some older hardware may not be supported for either 32 or 64 bit Vista, so check for drivers if it is vital to use this hardware. All versions of Vista are available in 32 or 64 bit versions.
    http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista/compare-editions/64-bit.aspx
     
    Just Playin, Feb 8, 2009
    #2
  3. DavidGP

    DavidGP MajorGeeks Forum Administrator - Grand Pooh-Bah Staff Member

    Hi

    64bit is a way to go at this point in time as more and more hardware is 64bit compatible and has drivers, especially if your buying a new laptop, its likely and check the makers site to double check they support the model laptop with x64 drivers and you should see no issues.

    Most software even if not natively x64 will work in x64 Vista as 64bit OSes have a legacy folder for 32bit apps, and on the list you have iTunes, Photoshop, external drives and USB pens all work fine. Dont know on The Sims but check with EA the makers, but I would think it will as most modern games will.

    I'm running x64 Vista and Win7 and not come across one of my applications that doesnt work, did have to manually install the media card slot drivers for my laptop as the auto installer didnt like x64, but the card slots work fine.
     
    DavidGP, Feb 8, 2009
    #3

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