Understanding 64-bit PCs
If you're shopping for a new PC you're probably going to come across systems that are designated "64-bit." These are computers running 64-bit editions of Windows Vista, typically with 4GB of memory or more. Compared to 32-bit systems, which top out at around 3GB of memory, 64-bit PCs offer added responsiveness for people who are running a lot of applications at the same time and switching between them frequently.
Both types of PCs are good options; the best choice depends on your particular needs. Here's a little background information and some shopping tips.
What's happening
Not long ago, almost all the computers you'd find at your local retailer were 32-bit PCs. People who bought 64-bit PCs were primarily technology enthusiasts or people running specialized software that used the large amounts of memory a 64-bit PC can support.
Over the past few years, the PC industry has gradually increased production of 64-bit PCs. We've been working with industry partners on this transition to 64-bit computing, as we did when the industry shifted from 16-bit to 32-bit PCs back with Windows 95.
The shift toward 64-bit PC production has speeded up recently, and that's why you'll be seeing more of these PCs in stores. One reason is that the cost difference between a 32-bit and 64-bit PC has shrunk. For example, we don't charge extra for the 64-bit editions of Windows Vista, and the cost of memory, one of the largest factors of a PC's cost, has dropped dramatically. Now most PC manufacturers offer 64-bit PCs that don't cost a whole lot more than a 32-bit PC.
What's it mean to you?
If you want to be sure that your PC will be able to take advantage of increased memory and new hardware and software in the years ahead, a 64-bit PC is a good choice. If you run a lot of programs at once and switch back and forth between them often, a 64-bit PC can give you a more seamless, instantaneous response. And the more memory you have in your PC, the more programs you can run smoothly and simultaneously. If you only run one or two programs at the same time, a 32-bit PC is a fine choice.
What should you do?
Like most shopping decisions, the choice between a 32-bit and 64-bit PC comes down to a little research and balancing your priorities. Here's what we recommend:
Look for the logo
Check to make sure that the hardware and software you want to use with it is compatible. You'll find that most of the hardware devices and software programs you use today will work well with 64-bit editions of Windows Vista. The best way to know if something will work is to look for the Windows Vista logos on devices and software programs—that means they're compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit editions of Windows Vista."
Visit the Windows Vista Compatibility Center
If you don't see the logo, visit the Windows Vista Compatibility Center and check the 64-bit compatibility status. Hardware and software vendors continue to update this information, so check back often. As the PC industry shifts more and more toward 64-bit production, you'll see a steady increase in the hardware and software products that work with these PCs.
Balance your priorities
If your first priority is having a PC that can take advantage of increased memory and new hardware or software, then lean towards a 64-bit PC. On the other hand, if cost is a key concern and you're mostly interested in running a couple programs, or if you have older hardware and software that isn't supported by a 64-bit PC, then a 32-bit PC is a good choice.
64-bit DVD
If you bought Windows Vista Home Basic, Home Premium, or Business as a retail, packaged product, and you would like a DVD of 64-bit software media to install on your PC, please choose your language:
Note: 64-bit media is included in the box with Windows Vista Ultimate.