Do I Need the 32-Bit or the 64-Bit Processor?

Before you determine whether or not you need a 64-bit processor for your computer, let’s go over the differences between a 64-bit and a 32-bit processor.(Read more about Network Processors)

• Both processors simply refer to how the computer is able to handle information.
• The 64-bit processor can handle larger amounts of RAM much more effectively than a 32-bit processor.

Because of this, is it essential that you install a 64-bit processor in your computer? Let’s take a look and find out.

Do I need a 64-Bit Processor?

Should I go with a 64-bit processor?

First off, when determining whether you actually need a 64-bit processor, you need to assess how much RAM you currently have or will be adding to your PC as well as the type of activities you’ll be doing on your computer.

If your PC only contains a small amount of RAM, normally ranging between 512 MB and 1 GB, there is no reason to get a 64-bit processor, as these processors have shown no signs of improvement in the processing speed with RAM at this level. However, if you have RAM at 2 GB or above, you should stick with a 64-bit processor.

Again, these choices also entirely depend on what you do with your computer. Are you an intense gamer or graphic designer or are you the type of person that simply uses their computer for opening spreadsheets and browsing the web.

Even if you have a large amount of RAM coupled with a 32-bit processor, if you won’t be doing intensive tasks on your machine, it’s best to stick with a 32-bit processor.

Advantages of a 64-bit processor

As stated earlier, 64-bit processors are loved because of their speed. 64-bit CPUs are able to handle much more memory and larger file sizes.

• Can run both 32-Bit and 64-Bit programs : Keep in mind that you should also look at the types of programs that you like to run on your computer. While many programs are catered towards 32-bit machines, others only run on 64-bit machines. The best part about a 64-bit processor is that it can run both 32-bit and 64-bit programs, meaning you almost never have to worry about minimum specifications. 32-bit processors, on the other hand, can only handle 32-bit programs.
• Are you a gamer? : If so, a 64-bit processor will provide better in-game textures, more realistic sounds, as well as even smoother environments. This is because with this extra speed, the games programmers can add better features that simply cannot be run on a 32-bit machine. Characters in the game will look much more life-like and even the computer-run characters will feature better artificial intelligence.
• Video encoding : Video encoding is also significantly improved with a 64-bit system. This means that when viewing an HD video on your computer, you’ll notice both increased clarity and speed.
• Performance : The biggest gain in terms of performance when moving from a 32-bit to a 64-bit processor seems to come with applications that handle large amounts of data. These include data managers, CAD software, or media editing programs.

Summary – So Which Should You Choose? (32-Bit Or The 64-Bit)

As we have seen earlier, to determine whether or not you need a 64-bit processor, the best factors to go by are your activity level as well as your RAM size. For one thing, if you are a person who simply surfs the web, you can stick with a 32-bit processor. However, if you do more complex jobs on your computer such as gaming or video editing, you’ll most likely boast more RAM with your computer and will notice an added benefit by bumping yourself up to a 64-bit processor.

Even if you don’t need it now because of your activity level or RAM size, both of these may change in the future.

Keep in mind that 64-bit processors can run any 32-bit programs but this doesn’t work the other way around.

For the most part, if the speed of your computer is a major issue for you and you want the fastest performance, go with a 64-bit processor.