What is the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit Windows 7?

Asked By tekininja 20 points N/A Posted on - 09/20/2011

I am planning to upgrade my Windows Vista Home Premium 64 bit and I don't know which Windows 7 is better. Should I get Windows 7 64 bit since my Vista is a 64 bit.

How is it different from a 32 bit? If I upgrade to a 32 bit will this affect the performance of my computer?

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Answered By miao5656 0 points N/A #126044

What is the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit Windows 7?

There are some significant differences between 32 bit and 64 bit version of Windows 7. They are given below:

1. A 32 bit windows runs on 32 bit processor while a 64 bit Windows runs on 64 bit processor.
2. The 32-bit Windows limit for RAM access @ 4 GB as if Windows needs more working memory while 64 –bit window does not limit this access.
3. 64 –bit Windows is faster than 32-bit windows.
4. There are some disadvantage like: 64-bit device drivers may not be available for one or more devices in the computer as 32-bit drivers are always available.
5. Finally, 64-bit version of Windows is that, it offers better memory accessibility and management than 32 bit version of Windows.

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Answered By abalee 0 points N/A #126045

What is the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit Windows 7?

Hi Tekininja!

The 32 or 64 bit version of Windows 7 refers to the memory address length that can be referenced by the processor. The main impact relies on the maximum amount of memory that can be utilized. For 32 bit, you can use up to 3.4 GB only in reality (some say 4GB but you have to consider hardware allocations). Meanwhile, you can utilize more than 4GB of your memory if you'll be using a 64-bit operating system.

Since you were able to use most of your software/hardware while you have Windows Vista 64-bit installed, you should not  encounter performance issues. You may want to focus on the compatibility issues instead. For example, you may want to check the devices and applications you will use if they are compatible with Windows 7 32-bit version.

If you've got the latest hardware and drivers available, it would be worth it if you'll be taking the step up to Windows 7 64-bit version. You should be warned that your existing applications and devices must be compatible with a Windows 7 upgrade.

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• Posted on - 09/20/2011
• Question Category: Windows 7