win 7 - 32 bit or 64 bit

I've got a tz-2000 and was wondering if anyone has an opinion on whether 32bit or 64 bit is better. what is your experience?

windows upgrade advisor tells me to go with 32-bit, but who knows.

 

The 64 bit version is the way of the future for software and applications.

Also, more importantly, it can access / use more than 3gb of RAM.

 

thanks for the response. but, since the TZ is limited to 2gb of ram anyway, is there any other advantage? it's a TZ, so it's not like i'm really doing anything really intensive. maybe some photoshop here and there.

 

Since 64-bit windows needs extra RAM just to run overheads and you seem to be restricted to 2GB of ram, and the fact that you probably do not have 64-bit version of photoshop, I'd stick with 32-bit version of windows.

Although, why are you running photoshop on a system with only 2GB ram anyway?

Unless you can install at least 4GB of RAM on your system, stick with 32-bit windows.

 

64-bit Windows 7 runs well with 2 GB of RAM.

 

meh. i had it and the laptop was there. i figured that 32 bit was the way way to go since it maxed out at 2gb. guess i just needed reassurance. also, you bring up a good point about 64-bit versions of the programs i have. i think they can be run in 32-bit mode, but if most will have to be run that way, then what's the point of installing 64-bit windows?

guess if no one can point out a really good reason, i'm just sticking with 32-bit

 

My processor, memory, and gaming graphic sub scores (Windows Experience Index) all increased with the 64 bit version over the 32 bit version of Windows 7 (got my copy early).

If you have a choice between the two versions I'd suggest going with the 64 bit version. You'll be able to run your 32 bit programs AND later be able to reap the benefits of native 64 bit applications in the future.

The only real reason to stick with the 32 bit version is if you cannot find 64 bit device drivers for your notebook.

 

The W.E.I. scores between Vista and W7 are not comparable since the range in W7 was increased to a maximum of 7.9 and I believe some of the tests have been changed/modified.

 

I feel 64-bit will be advantageous in the future, if you plan on keeping the laptop with the OS for several years. There is going to be a day where only a 64-bit variant of the software will be released, and by having a 64-bit OS (which will be able to run 32-bit software perfectly fine), you won't run into the problem of having a 32-bit OS unable to run 64-bit software.

 

I have had some software issues running x64 Vista Ultimate (on a QuadCore PC with 4GB RAM); rather hesitant on using x64 Windows (Windows 7 included) until the ENTIRE mainstream market is releasing x64 software...

 

It's a vicious circle, but the more people that 'wait', the necessity for 32-bit remains for developers.

 

I never said I used Vista.

The index increases were gained by a fresh installation of Windows 7 64 bit over a fresh installation Windows 7 32 bit.

If you have access to the 64 bit media, have the hardware to support it, and are able to locate drivers for your model you should definitely give it a try.

 

well then. maybe i will try out 64bit. anyone know if all the drivers exist for a TZ?