If you’ve ever looked into downloading software or upgrading your computer, you might have seen the terms x64 and x86. Don’t worry if it confused you — you’re not alone! These techy labels might sound like something only a programmer should care about, but they actually play a big role in how your computer runs.

TL;DR: x86 is the older, 32-bit system. x64 is the newer, 64-bit system. They affect how much memory your computer can use and what programs it can run. If your computer is new, chances are it’s x64. But older software may still be x86. Simple, right?

What Do x86 and x64 Even Mean?

The terms x86 and x64 refer to CPU architectures. That’s a fancy way of saying: how your computer’s brain is built.

• x86 = 32-bit processor
• x64 = 64-bit processor

But what does “bit” mean here? In simple terms, it’s about how much data your processor can handle at once.

Imagine a 32-bit processor is like using a small bucket to carry water. A 64-bit processor is like using a big bucket. The big one carries more, and faster!

A Brief History

The name x86 comes from a series of Intel processors from way back in the day, like the 8086 and 80386. These were 16-bit and later 32-bit chips. The ‘86’ stuck, even as things improved.

Then came the 64-bit processors, and people needed a way to talk about them too. So they started calling them x64. Makes sense, right?

So, to make it simple:

• x86 = old school = 32-bit
• x64 = modern = 64-bit

Why Should You Care?

Because it affects how your system runs apps and uses memory.

Here’s what x64 can do better than x86:

• Access way more RAM (memory)
• Run faster and more modern programs
• Do heavier multitasking

x86 systems can only use up to about 4GB of RAM. That might’ve been cool in 2005, but these days? Not so much.

x64 systems can use over 17 billion GB of RAM! That’s obviously way more than any of us need right now, but the point is—they’re not as limited.

How to Tell What You Have

Want to know if your computer is x64 or x86? It’s easy!

On Windows:

1. Right-click on “This PC” or “My Computer”
2. Click “Properties”
3. Look for “System type”

It will say something like “64-bit Operating System, x64-based processor”.

On macOS: All Macs after around 2006 use 64-bit processors. If you’ve got a Mac from this century, you’re good.

Can x64 Run x86 Software?

Great question, and the answer is yes!

A 64-bit system can almost always run 32-bit software thanks to something called backward compatibility.

But the reverse? That doesn’t work. A 32-bit processor can’t handle 64-bit software. It’s like trying to squeeze an elephant through a cat door. Not happening.

So if you’re using a newer computer, it can probably run both x86 and x64 applications. Nice, huh?

Where You Might See This

You’ll often see x86 vs x64 when downloading software. The website may give you a choice:

• Download for 32-bit (x86)
• Download for 64-bit (x64)

Always choose the version that matches your system for the best performance.

The Good and Bad of Each

Here’s a friendly breakdown:

	x86 (32-bit)	x64 (64-bit)
Speed	Slower	Faster
Memory Limit	4 GB	Virtually unlimited
Uses	Older devices and programs	Newer systems and heavy apps
Compatibility	Only runs x86 software	Runs both x86 and x64 software

Gaming and Software Performance

Gamers take note: You’ll definitely want a 64-bit system. Modern games eat memory for breakfast. They need more than 4GB just to stretch their legs.

Same goes for video editing, 3D design, and heavy-duty apps. They’re all hungry, and only x64 has the appetite to handle them.

If you’re just browsing the web, doing emails, or writing stuff, x86 would work. But why limit yourself?

Phones and Tablets?

Yes, even phones use these terms! Modern smartphones and tablets mostly use 64-bit processors now. That’s why your apps are smoother, your games don’t crash much, and everything loads faster.

Older Android phones might’ve had 32-bit chips, but newer versions are making that ancient tech extinct.

Quick Recap Time!

• x86 = 32-bit: Older, slower, limited RAM
• x64 = 64-bit: Modern, faster, lots of RAM
• Most new systems and devices are x64
• If your computer is x64, it can run both x86 and x64 programs

So… Which One Should You Use?

If you’re on a fairly new machine: Go with x64.

If you’re using old hardware or software that doesn’t support 64-bit: You might be stuck with x86.

But for everyone else? Embrace the power of 64-bits. It’s faster, smarter, and just better for today’s tasks.

Think of it like upgrading from a moped to a sports car. Both get you there, but one does it with style.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what x86 and x64 mean! Hopefully, it doesn’t sound so scary anymore. It’s just the difference between old tech and new tech. And knowing which one your system uses helps you get the right software, better performance, and fewer headaches.

So next time you see those mysterious labels on a download page, give yourself a little nod. You’ve got this.