If you are not sure what version (32-bit or 64-bit) of Windows 10 your computer is running, this article is for you. We will show you how to check if you have a 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 10. Show
What's the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit of Windows?The terms 32-bit(x86) and 64-bit(x64) refers to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than a 32-bit system. System Type tells you whether you're using the 32-bit version of Windows 10 or the 64-bit version. It also tells you whether your PC is compatible with the 64-bit version or not. The 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor indicates you're using a 64-bit version of Windows 10 on a 64-bit processor. The 32-bit operating system, x64-based processor indicates you're using a 32-bit version of Windows 10, but you could install the 64-bit version on your hardware if you preferred. Generally speaking, to run a 64-bit version of Windows, your computer must have a 64-bit-capable processor. 64-bit versions of Windows can run 32-bit software, but 32-bit versions of Windows can't run 64-bit software. How to tell if your computer is running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 10Press the Windows logo key and Pause/Break key on your keyboard at the same time. This will quickly open the System window, allowing you to see if your Windows 10 system type is 32-bit or 64-bit. Way 2: Check Windows 10 system type from SettingsStep 1: Open the Settings app using Win + I and select System. Step 2: Select About on the left side, and then under the Device specifications on the right side, you can see if you're running a 32-bit or 64-bit of Windows 10. Way 3: Check Windows System type in System InformationStep 1: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type msinfo32 in the box and press Enter. This will open the System Information window. Step 2: Select System Summary on the left side, and on the right side, you can see if your Windows 10 system type is an x86-based PC or an x64-based PC. Way 4: Using Command PromptStep 1: Type cmd in the "Type here to search" box on the left of the taskbar. When the Command Prompt shortcut appears in the search results list, press Enter to open the Command Prompt. Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type systeminfo and press Enter. Your system information will be displayed on the screen and you can see if your Windows 10 is 32-bit or 64-bit. Not sure if your installed version of Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit? One quick way to tell is by looking at information about your operating system installation in Control Panel. However, the specific steps involved depend a lot on which operating system you're using. Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 & Vista: 64-Bit or 32-Bit?Windows 11 only comes in 64-bit, and Windows 7 Starter Edition and Windows Vista Starter Edition are available only in 32-bit. Here's how to tell if you have a 64-bit or 32-bit version of Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista:
Windows XP: 64-Bit or 32-Bit?The General tab in System Properties provides all the details.
Check the 'Program Files' Folder NameThis method isn't as easy to understand as using Control Panel, but it does provide a quick way of checking on whether you're running a 64-bit or 32-bit version of Windows, and is especially helpful if you're looking for this information from a command line tool. If your version of Windows is 64-bit, you're able to install both 32-bit and 64-bit software programs, so there are two different "Program Files" folders on your computer. However, 32-bit versions of Windows have just one folder, since they can only install 32-bit programs. Here's an easy way to comprehend this... Two program folders exist on a 64-bit version of Windows:
32-bit versions of Windows have just one folder:
Therefore, if you find only one folder when checking this location, you're using a 32-bit version of Windows. If there are two "Program Files" folder, you're for sure using a 64-bit version. Is Windows 64-bit or 32-bit?If you're running Windows XP, chances are it's 32-bit. However, if you're on Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, the chance that you're running a 64-bit version goes up considerably. All Windows 11 installations are 64-bit. Of course, this isn't something you want to take a guess at. Knowing if your copy of Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit becomes very important when installing device drivers for your hardware and choosing between certain kinds of software. FAQ
|