Whats the difference between Vista 32 bit and Vista 64 bit?

Question

and why are there 2 version?

Answer 1

There are a few differences between the two types. x64 can run twice as many colours than x32, giving a much better looking image than you would be used to. Also, performance-wise, x64 is much faster than x32, and the difference is immediately noticeable. Besides that, on an x32 system, the max amount of RAM that can be installed is 4GB, whereas on Vista Ultimate x64, you can have 128GB.

The main disadvantage of x64 (on XP mainly though) was that alot of programs still aren't compatible, deciding to stay with x32 for a little while longer. But seeing as Vista is primarily an x64 system, that problem won't be around much longer.

Hope that helps=]

Answer 2

One is meant for x86 (32-bit) processors and the other for newer 64bit processors. All modern 64 bit processors can run 32bit programs, but one of the major pros of running 64bit is that it allows you to run 4 gigs of ram or more in your system, of course, since 64bit is less prevalent, drivers can be a bit of a pain.

Answer 3

alfajoe127-

Hi, my name’s Cody, and I’m working with the Windows Vista Outreach Team to help answer questions about Vista.  Some of the other folks on here have done a pretty good job answering your question about the differences between 32 and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista, but I’ve got a few more details about the differences I’d like to share.

Laike is totally right: a big difference between the two versions is that the 64-bit version allows you utilize more memory than a 32-bit version.  Basically, this adds some increased performance to the programs you’ll use because it uses less of your hard disk when processing various tasks.  There are quite a few other differences as well (too many to list here), so here are a few links that’ll give you all the information you should need:  http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/windows...  and http://support.microsoft.com/kb/946765

The first link is a little less technical than the second one, but they are both pretty useful.  I hope this helps answer your questions, let me know if there’s any other info I can share!

Thanks,

Cody

Windows Vista Outreach Team

Answer 4

32 bit vista can read only 3.25 memory if you install 4 gb.64 bit can read all 4 gb.But some software dont run on 64 bit.I'm running window 64 bit xp   with 8 gb ddr2 1066mhz over clock to 1333mhz.But people said 64 is faster then 32 bits.

Answer 5

One's newer,shinier,and less functional then the others.

You cannot tell any difference,except a higher price tag and less compatible programs.

Answer 6

32 Bit can only be run on 86 bit processor

64 Bit can only be run on 64 bit processor

I don't know that much about processors so I don't know any difference between the 2 CPUs...

Answer 7

It’s mega-fast with 64-bit apps as well as lets you upgrade > 4GB TOTAL RAM (system RAM + graphics card + other devices).  64-bit is more secure from viruses.  64-bit also requires “MS approved” (a.k.a. digitally signed) drivers so this “might” help with hardware compatibility, etc.  This is MS’s way of trying to get everyone to “move on” if they are able to.

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2008/06/04...

But if you have really old programs, they might not work (esp. with 64-bit version).  Google “Vista compatibility list”.  Knowing a bit about computers helps getting the old problematic ones to work (Internet has a lot of solutions that smart people share).

Ultimate is the best but if you don’t think you need anything that fancy, Home Premium is good too. Get a good video card if you want Aero graphics (at least 256MB 128-bit in the newer cards)… better if you can afford.  Vista technology distributes more graphics processing to the video card and relieves the CPU for other things.  This is KEY to Vista performance…a good video card will make Vista work well.

Vista uses extra RAM to store commonly used files in a new activity known as “disk caching” (SuperFetch). The computer uses artificial intelligence to determine which files will be used most and copies it to RAM (where it is much faster than accessing your hard disk).  This includes components of the programs you use on a regular basis.  When you need more RAM for programs you launch, etc. the computer purges the “least likely used” files from RAM to make room for the new program.  So in theory, the more RAM (for disk cache) you have, the faster your computer will operate.  This can also be augmented (to a lesser effect) with a flash drive/card with a technology called ReadyBoost.  Just stick it in and select “Speed up my system” and leave it there. Google “AnandTech ReadyBoost Performance” for basic test examples.

Understanding how SuperFetch uses RAM to enhance system performance…

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/window...

High RAM will be especially helpful for those people who like to leave all their windows open and use Vista’s “S3 sleep mode” (2 watts) so they can resume where they left off almost immediately after they turn their computers on.  Your apps are pre-opened where you left them and your RAM cache is loaded too, just as if you just walked away and came back.

Windows Vista - SuperFetch & ReadyBoost

http://blogs.technet.com/askperf/archive...

32-bit means it can only address 2^32 (2 to the 32nd power) = 4GB memory spaces.

That would be RAM + VRAM + other devices on Motherboard, etc.  

e.g. If you have a 1 GB VRAM, you will prolly only be able to get 2.7GB user RAM approx.

This one's a bit technical, but it describes some of the nitty-gritty of 64-bit technology.

http://www.bit-tech.net/bits/2007/10/16/...

Considering this, SuperFetch is probably the most significant feature that distinguishes Vista from all other OS's for the users across the board.  Many other features won't be noticeable or even used by the common person (that is until commercial developers start using WPF/WFC etc., and even more DX10).  So why not take advantage of it?

Get one with Vista 64-bit.  They usually have the best specs that will last long.

If this is any indication that 64-bit is the wave of the future and 32-bit will be “obsolete”…

“There appears to be a shift taking place in the PC industry: the move from 32-bit to 64-bit PCs.

We've been tracking the change by looking at the percentage of 64-bit PCs connecting to Windows Update, and have seen a dramatic increase in recent months. The installed base of 64-bit Windows Vista PCs, as a percentage of all Windows Vista systems, has more than tripled in the U.S. in the last three months, while worldwide adoption has more than doubled during the same period.  Another view shows that 20% of new Windows Vista PCs in the U.S. connecting to Windows Update in June were 64-bit PCs, up from just 3% in March. Put more simply, usage of 64-bit Windows Vista is growing much more rapidly than 32-bit. Based on current trends, this growth will accelerate as the retail channel shifts to supplying a rapidly increasing assortment of 64-bit desktops and laptops.”

http://windowsvistablog.com/blogs/window...