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Possible Duplicate:
Do I need more RAM for programming if I switch to a 64 Bit OS?

I haven't done any proper clinical analysis but the first time I booted a 64 bit version of Linux some years ago I was surprised at how much memory programs were consuming, but of course I had not actually memorised the previous values I had observed.

Am I imagining things or is there a calculable difference in RAM usage between 32 and 64 bit version of the same programs? I can't be bothered to dual boot a 32 bit version to find out but I'm just curious if it was some kind of placebo effect :-)

Community
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barrymac
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2 Answers2

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Technically yes, but the difference is marginal at worst. If it matters, then you don't have enough memory in the first place.

Darth Android
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Yes, you will use a lot of memory more. Read the example of Gilles. Firefox/Chrome 64bits is the better example for this question in a desktop computer.

amd64 is a architecture superior to x86 but only if you computer has the hardware necessary. Not only the processor, you will need more RAM, more processor cache (very important), etc.

If you need a computer for scientific applications, convert/edition video or any application mathematically intensive, use 64bits. For a "office computer" for now is better to use x86.

Rufo El Magufo
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