There are many different kinds of central processing units (CPUs) or computer processors in the market today that choosing one for your computer can be quite a challenging task. You need to choose among many brands such as AMD and Intel. You also need to choose among various generations, CPU speeds and pin layouts. Moreover, you need to choose between the 64 bit processor and the 32 bit processor. What is the difference between a 64 bit CPU and a 32 bit CPU?
There are slight differences between a 64 bit CPU and a 32 bit CPU. The most obvious change you can see is in the video quality of your computer monitor. Other less noticeable changes are in your Web browsing speeds and the smoothness of high definition graphics software.
A 64 bit processor is generally better and faster than the older 32 bit processor. A 64 bit CPU consists of advanced electronic parts and transistors. It can do more calculations than a 32 bit processor and support more memory or RAM. With more RAM, a computer can run programs and process data faster.
A 32 bit processor can only accommodate 1GB of memory for each memory slot on the computer motherboard. Laptop computers only have two memory slots so with a 32 bit processor, the maximum memory you can install is 2GB.
With a 64 bit processor, however, you can upgrade to 8GB of memory. This makes for a very powerful computer with exceptional multi-tasking abilities. Applications will load faster and your computer can power up faster. This makes 64 bit CPUs very useful for computer users who are into photo and video editing software and the latest PC games.
One drawback to a 64 bit processor is its compatibility issues with popular software that are designed to run on 32 bit CPUs. Despite having been built to be backward compatible, 64 bit CPUs have problems running certain software such as Adobe Acrobat and Windows Media Player. Another problem with 64 bit CPUs is the large RAM needed to install them — at least 4GB.
If you are only using your computer for simple school homework or general office tasks, then a 32 bit processor will be a cost-effective solution for you. If you frequently use multimedia software or play 3D computer games — and you can also afford to pay a premium — then a 64 bit processor is a better purchase to make.
